ES2846859T3 - Electric chairs for public spaces, sets for use in electric chairs and components for use in sets for use on electric chairs - Google Patents

Abstract

A reclining power chair system, the system comprising: at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410) assigned to a first control group, wherein the at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410) is assigned to the first control group by at least one of: a first pin and shorting block, a first push button, or a first memory input; at least one second power recliner chair (210,310,410) assigned to a second control group, wherein the at least one second power recliner chair (210,310,410) is assigned to the second control group by at least one of: a second pin and block of short circuit, a second push button, or a second entry into a memory; a first remote control input for reorienting the at least one first reclining power chair (210, 310, 410) to a first orientation; a second remote control input for reorienting the at least one second power recliner (210,310,410) to a second orientation, wherein the first orientation is independent of the second orientation, and wherein data representative of the first remote control input and of the second remote input are transmitted through at least one of: a wired communication network or a wireless network connection; and an intelligent power supply (865), wherein the intelligent power supply (865) automatically prohibits at least one second power recliner chair (210,310,410) from starting to reorient at the same time as the at least one first power recliner chair ( 210,310,410) begins to reorient.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Electric chairs for public spaces, sets for use in electric chairs and components for use in sets for use on electric chairs

Technical field

The present disclosure generally refers to electric chairs. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to locally and / or remotely controlled electric reclining chairs for use within an associated location. Background

Presently, individually operable power reclining chairs are available so that an occupant of the respective chair can reorient the respective chair between an upright orientation and a reclined orientation via local control. Similarly, known power-assisted chairs may include a motor-driven lift mechanism to assist people who need assistance getting in or out of the chair. The motor-driven lifting mechanisms can be interconnected between a stationary base assembly and a mobile chair frame. Alternatively, some power chairs include separate articulation mechanisms to allow the seat occupant to selectively extend and retract a footrest assembly and / or to produce a reclining angular motion between a first upright orientation and a second reclined orientation.

Conventional rocking chairs may include a chair body and a substantially arched support console mounted to the bottom of the chair body. Thus, when a user applies a force on the body of the chair by his own gravity, the support console can function as a rocking point of support for the body of the chair so that the rocking chair rocks back and forth. However, the user has to exert a force on the body of the chair to rock the rocking chair, so that the user sitting in the rocking chair cannot relax, thus easily causing an uncomfortable feeling to the user.

Power chairs can be adapted to provide the lift and tilt function in combination with a footrest and / or recline function. Chairs that provide such a combination of multi-position functions generally require the use of multiple motors to drive separate connections, resulting in extremely large and expensive chair units. Additionally, most power chairs incorporate a drive mechanism that employs a power drive function to extend the footrest, raise the chair, and recline the chair, and a power return feature to return the chair to a normal sitting position (e.g. example, a portrait orientation).

An important feature of power chairs is the ability to withstand heavy loads during the lift and tilt functions. More specifically, electric chairs are designed to support people of a particular weight. Typically, power chairs that are adapted to support a weight above a particular threshold, such as 300 pounds, require multiple motors.

In any case, known electric chairs are controlled, at most, by a local controller.

Document JPH11318623 describes the need to provide a theater seat whose service posture includes the seat height, the back angle and the armrest height can be set according to the user's request and which allows the user to simply reproduce the service posture you have established once. The solution described is a theater seat composed of a body, a posture actuation means capable of changing the service posture of the chair body, including the seat height, the angle of the backrest, the height of the elbow support to various positions, a manual adjustment means by which the user manually adjusts the service posture via the posture actuation means, and a memory means that stores at least the service posture set by the user as posture data for individual users. Based on the data stored in the memory means in the previous use of the corresponding user, an automatic adjustment means automatically adjusts the service posture through the posture drive means.

Document EP1884225 describes a chair type massage machine comprising a seat, a backrest and a leg portion having a plurality of preset recline angles to effectively massage the user in various postures. The massage machine comprises a seat rotatably and movable supported by a base, a backrest rotatably supported movable by the seat at the rear end thereof, a leg portion rotatably supported movable by the seat at the end. front thereof, control means for controlling the seat movement means, the backrest movement means and the leg portion movement means and a manual controller. The control means has stored therein a plurality of preset recline angles with respect to the angle of the seat, the backrest and the leg portion.

Summary

Aspects of the present invention are listed in the appended claims.

A reclining power chair system is provided as defined in claim 1.

In another embodiment, a reclining power chair can include at least one actuator that has a first input and a second input. The actuator can be configured to reorient at least a portion of the reclining power chair between a vertical orientation and a reclined orientation in response to the first input. The actuator can be configured to reorient at least the portion of the reclining power chair between the recline orientation and the vertical orientation in response to the second input. The reclining power chair can also include a control module that has a local input, a remote input, a first output, and a second output. The first output can be connected to the first input. The second output can be connected to the second input. The local input can be connected to a chair occupant user interface that can allow a chair occupant to reorient the reclining power chair while the chair occupant is seated in the chair. The remote input can be connected to a remote user interface that can be physically separate from the power reclining chair and can allow a remote operator to remotely reorient the power reclining chair from the power reclining chair.

In a further embodiment, a method of controlling a plurality of power reclining chairs may include assigning at least one first power reclining chair to a first control group, and assigning at least one second power reclining chair to a second control group. The method may also include causing the at least one first reclining power chair to reorient to a first orientation in response to a first remote control input. The method may further include causing the at least one second power reclining chair to reorient to a second orientation in response to a second remote control input. The first orientation can be independent of the second orientation.

In yet another embodiment, a reclining power chair system may include at least one of: a channel or an arm; and at least one of: power cabling or data cabling. The at least one of: the power wiring or the data wiring may be routed through the at least one of: the channel or arm from a first reclining power chair to a second reclining power chair.

The Power Reclining Chair System includes a smart power source. The smart power supply automatically prohibits a second power reclining chair from beginning to reorient itself at the same time as a first chair to begin reorienting.

Other benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon careful reading of the detailed description with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawing

Figure 1 depicts a high-level block diagram of a computer system for managing power reclining chairs and locations that include power reclining chairs;

Figures 2 to 4 represent perspective views of reclining power chairs;

Figures 5A-D depict various positions of reclining power chairs;

Figure 6 represents an example of a reclining electric chair with a rocking function;

Figure 7 represents an example of an electric lift mechanism for a reclining electric chair;

Figure 8 depicts an example controller assembly for a reclining power chair;

Figures 9A-C depict an example controller assembly for a reclining power chair;

Figures 10A-C depict an example controller assembly for a reclining power chair;

Figures 11A-C depict an example of local control for a reclining power chair;

Figures 12A-B depict bottom perspective views of an example electric reclining chair;

Figures 13A-B depict block diagrams, for example, reclining chair control systems;

Figures 14A-H and 14J-K depict illustrative reclining chairs and related control components; Figures 15A-D depict various illustrative views of reclining chair arm structures;

Figures 16A-F depict examples of electric reclining chair power interconnections;

Figures 17A-F depict various illustrative views of power reclining chair assemblies;

Figures 18A-H and 18J-L depict various views of power and control assemblies for use in power reclining chairs; Y

Figure 19 depicts a flow chart of an example method for controlling a plurality of power reclining chairs.

Detailed description

Power reclining chairs, assemblies for use in power reclining chairs, and components for use in assemblies are provided. Related systems and methods can allow remote operation of power reclining chairs, thereby reducing the cost of associated routine maintenance and associated site cleaning.

For example, one remote master controller can control multiple electric chairs. The main controller can be controlled / operated by the site administration to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a plurality of power reclining chairs. A master controller can contain security features such as key lock, password protection, security access, etc.

A local master controller may be, for example, located at the end of a row of chairs, within a section of chairs, or in a secure location selected by site management. A remote master controller can be accessed wirelessly, via a wired connection, and / or locally. A master controller can interact with other systems (eg emergency systems, food / beverage vending operations, venue lighting, maintenance, etc.) to improve the site of operations. A master controller may have output (s) / circuit (s) to control chairs through a respective chair circuit. Alternatively, a group of chairs can be mechanically interconnected so that a single master controller can control a group of chairs.

Controlling multiple chairs at once can save time when performing site-related tasks such as cleaning or maintenance that require the chairs to be extended and / or retracted. A controller, which has multiple output circuits, can allow preselected chairs to extend or retract in a defined order to facilitate a desired task. For example, cleaning can be facilitated by extending and / or retracting any other chair to provide the operator with better access to a reclining chair extended in narrow rows.

Alternate chair placement patterns can be achieved to aid in different tasks. For example, an entire place of chairs can be automatically reoriented in a prescribed time sequence with a single initiation. While a controller can have multiple outputs, any given controller can only have one output circuit and associated chairs can include individual IDs or addresses so that a controller communication protocol can allow control of an individual chair and / or benches. of chairs.

The controller outputs can control the chairs wirelessly using available technologies such as Bluetooth®, and / or the controllers can be wired. The controller outputs can drive the chair actuator (s) to their respective internal stops, which can be timed, so that the chairs can be partially extended and / or retracted. Alternatively, or additionally, a controller can be sequenced to extend / retract chairs so that all chairs in a control group can fully extend and / or retract to one position before extending and / or retracting to a desired position.

The master controller circuits can control a slave control unit in each power chair, allowing parallel operation of a local user control switch or a master control circuit. Possible scenarios for controlling the chair in parallel may include, but are not limited to, an operator control switch and the control circuit that plugs into a slave controller, allowing control of an electric chair by the operator or by The main control box, an operator control switch, and a control circuit can be wirelessly connected to a slave controller, allowing the operator or master controller to control a power chair. A control circuit connected (wired or wireless) to a power chair switch that can allow parallel operation. A control circuit connected (wired or wireless) to an electric chair actuator, which can allow parallel operation of the chair. Power to an electric chair can be extended directly from a transformer to a master controller and / or slave controller (s) as required. A slave controller can be powered through respective input circuits or switching circuits as required.

Lights (for example, light-emitting diodes (LEDs)) can be incorporated into individual chairs. For example, a light can be incorporated under each chair to illuminate an area of a floor near the respective chair. The systems and methods of the present disclosure can report a remote location of activity (eg, site clean-up, chair occupancy, chair reorientation, etc.). This lighting can be turned on, for example, during cleaning and / or before and / or after a film to provide entry and / or exit lighting. Similar to remotely reorienting the chair, lighting can be controlled remotely. For example, all power reclining chairs can automatically return to an upright position (or any other predetermined position) and / or all chair lights can be turned on in the event of an emergency situation at the associated location. In particular, the notification of an emergency situation within a location can be initiated through a central alarm (for example, a manually operated fire alarm, a carbon monoxide sensor, a smoke sensor, etc.), a sound detector (for example, a gunshot detector, a scream detector, etc.), and / or by a personal electronic device (for example, a mobile phone, a portable data assistant, a laptop or any other device portable electronic device that is communicatively coupled to a site emergency notification system).

The sensors (for example, a proximity sensor, a capacitance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a light sensor, a touch sensor, a proximity switch, a limit switch, an electric current sensor, a pressure sensor, a strain gauge, a microphone, a motion sensor, a temperature sensor, a sonar sensor, etc.) can be incorporated into a respective chair for safety reasons. For example, a sensor can indicate that the reorientation of a chair has been inhibited because an object (eg, an individual or an individual's belongings) would be in danger of being damaged. A capacitance sensor can be configured in such a way that if an object (for example, an individual or an individual's possession) touches, or approaches a predetermined part of a respective chair (for example, a metal part of the chair) , a capacitance value will change and the object may be detected. The systems and methods of the present disclosure can provide remote indication of corresponding events.

Sensors and / or actuators can be incorporated into a chair that record the reorientations of the chair and / or any other events associated with the respective chair. Associated data can be automatically logged and logged to provide information for use with preventive maintenance of the chair and / or routine maintenance of the chair.

A user interface can be provided that includes, for example, a top plan view map of a place with each chair with alphanumeric, color, graphical information, etc. related to the status of the respective chair (for example, need for maintenance, occupied, reclined, breakdown, number of reorientations since the last maintenance, number of times occupied, time occupied, etc.)

The remote control system can automatically control other lighting in a place. The systems and methods of this disclosure can automatically record cleaning times and dates. For example, the positions of each chair can be recorded along with a timestamp for each orientation and / or reorientation of the chair. Occupancy sensors can be incorporated into a chair and can be used to record dates and times associated with when the respective chair was occupied. A weight sensor may be included which records the weight of an individual occupying a respective chair.

Local controls, located on each power reclining chair, can allow the chair occupant to reposition the power recliner while seated in the respective chair. For example, a first button may be provided to reorient a reclining power chair from an upright position to a reclined position. A second button may be provided to reorient the reclining power chair from a reclined position to an upright position. Any number of buttons can be provided to reorient the individual parts (for example, a backrest, a lower lumbar support, a chair seat, an armrest, a footrest, a footrest, etc.) of a reclining power chair independently of any other part. As described in more detail elsewhere in this document, a reclining power chair can be controlled via a cellular phone (eg, a smartphone) by implementing a reclining power chair application.

Any given power reclining chair can include speakers and / or a headphone jack. The speakers and / or the headphone jack may be wired to a venue sound system and / or may include a wireless connection to a venue sound system. Any given power reclining chair may include a power and / or data connector so that an occupant can plug in their cell phone and / or laptop device. Thus, an occupant can use the above features to order a drink and / or food at a delivery location. The occupant may be able to pay for their drinks and / or food through their own device and / or through an interface connected to the electric reclining chair.

Referring to Figure 1, a high-level block diagram of an exemplary computer system 100 for managing power reclining chairs is shown. The computer system 100 may include a central location operations center 105 and a reclining power chair site 160 (eg, a movie theater, sports venue, auditorium, stadium, theater, or any other location) communicatively coupled. over a communications network 175. Computer system 100 may also include a power chair technician site recliner 145 and a reclining power chair supplier site 130. While, for the convenience of illustration, only a single central site operations center 105 is depicted within the computer system 100 of Figure 1, any number of operations centers The central location 105 may be included within the computer system 100. While, for the convenience of illustration, only a single power reclining chair site 160 is depicted within the computer system 100 of Figure 1, any number of power reclining chair sites 160 can be included within computer system 100. In fact, computer system 100 can accommodate thousands of power reclining chair 160 sites. Although, for the convenience of illustration, only a single power reclining chair technician site 145 is depicted within From computer system 100 in Figure 1, any number of Power Reclining Chair Technician sites 145 it can be included within the computer system 100. Any given power reclining chair technician site 145 can be a mobile site. While, for the convenience of illustration, only a single power reclining chair vendor site 130 is depicted within the computer system 100 of Figure 1, any number of power recliner vendor sites 130 may be included within the computer system 100. .

The communications network 175, any of the network adapters 111, 118, 125, 137, 152, 167, and any of the network connections 176, 177, 178, 179 may include a wired section, a fiber optic section, a coaxial cable section, a wireless section, any sub-combination thereof, or any combination thereof, including, for example, a wireless LAN, MAN or WAN, WiFi, WiMax, Internet, a Bluetooth connection, or any combination thereof. In addition, a central operations center 105, a reclining power chair site 160, a reclining power chair technician site 145, and / or a reclining power chair provider site 130 may be communicatively connected via any suitable communication system. , such as by privately owned communication network, including those using wireless communication structures, such as wireless communication networks, including, for example, wireless LAN and WAN, satellite communication systems and cellular telephony, etc.

Any given central location 105 operations center may include a central computer system, or central server 106, a server terminal 112, a desktop computer 119, a laptop 126 and a telephone 127. Although the central computer system is shown Central location 105 operations in Figure 1 includes only one central computer system, or central server 106, only one server terminal 112, only one desktop computer 119, only one laptop 126, and only one telephone 127, any Operations of the given central location 105 can include any central computer or central server number, systems 106, server terminals 112, desktop terminals 119, laptop computers 126, and telephones 127. Any given telephone 127 may be, for example, a connected telephone. to a land line, a computer configured with Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), or a mobile phone (for example, a smartphone). Any given server terminal 112 may include a processor 115, a memory 116 that has at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with power reclining chair management and operating room 117, a network adapter 118, a screen 113, and a keyboard 114. Any given desktop computer 119 may include a processor 122, a memory 123 that has at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein associated with the management of power reclining chairs, and site 124, a network adapter 125, a display 120, and a keyboard 121. Any given central computer system, or central server 106 may include a processor 107, a memory 108 having at least one set of machine-readable instructions computer stored therein and associated with the management of electric reclining chairs and the place of operations 109, a network adapter 111 and a user (or customer) data 110. The user (or customer) database 110 may store, for example, chair operation data and / or associated location data, related to chair operation ( or a group of chairs) within an associated place. Any given laptop 126 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard. Any given telephone 127 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard.

Any given power reclining chair 130 supplier may include a desktop computer 131, a laptop computer 138, a tablet computer 139, and a phone 140. While only one desktop computer 131 is shown in Figure 1, only one laptop computer 138, only one tablet 139 and only one phone 140, any number of desktop computers 131, laptops 138, tablets 139 and / or phones 140 can be included in any supplier of electric reclining chairs 130. Any given phone 140 can be a phone connected to a land line or a mobile phone (for example, a smartphone). Any given desktop computer 131 may include a processor 134, a memory 135 that has at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room 136, a network adapter. 137, a screen 132, and a keyboard 133. Any given laptop 138 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein associated with power reclining chair management and location. operations, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard. Any given tablet 139 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the place of operations, a network adapter, display, and keyboard. Any given telephone 140 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard.

Any given site for a given power reclining chair technician 145 can include a desktop computer 146, a laptop computer 153, a tablet 154, and a phone 155. While only one desktop computer 146 is shown in Figure 1, only one computer laptop 153, only one tablet 154 and only one phone 155, any number of desktop computers 146, laptops 153, tablets 154 and / or phones 155 can be included anywhere for a power reclining chair technician 145. Any phone 155 Given can be a phone connected to a land line or a mobile phone (eg a smartphone). Any given desktop computer 146 may include a processor 149, a memory 150 that has at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room 151, a network adapter. 152, a screen 147, and a keyboard 148. Any given laptop 153 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein associated with power reclining chair management and location. operations, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard. Any given tablet 154 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard. Any given telephone 155 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard.

Any given power reclining chair 160 site can include a desktop computer 161, a laptop computer 168, a tablet computer 169 and a phone 170. While only a desktop computer 161, only a laptop 168, only a tablet 169 and only A telephone 170 is shown in Figure 1, any number of desktop computers 161, laptop computers 168, tablets 169 and / or telephones 170 can be included in any given power reclining chair 160 site. Any given phone 170 can be a landline connected phone or a mobile phone (eg, a smartphone). Any given desktop computer 161 may include a processor 164, a memory 165 that has at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with power reclining chair and operating room management 166, a network adapter 167 , a screen 162, and a keyboard 163. Any given laptop 168 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the place of operations. , a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard. Any tablet 169 may include a processor, a memory that has at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a screen, and a keyboard. . Any given telephone 170 may include a processor, a memory having at least one set of computer-readable instructions stored therein and associated with the management of power reclining chairs and the operating room, a network adapter, a display, and a keyboard. Although not shown in Figure 1, any given set of power reclining chairs 171, or individual power reclining chair, may include a programmable controller (for example, controller 860, 960a, 960b, 1060a, 1060b of Figures 8, 9A -B, 10A-B, respectively), a reclining power chair local control (for example, local control 270, 370, 470, 870, 970c, 1070c, 1170a-c of Figures 2, 3, 4, 8, 9c , 10c, 11A-11C, respectively) and / or any number of linear and / or rotary actuators (for example, actuator 655, 660, 760, 960b, 1060b, 1065b of Figures 6, 7, 9B, 10B, respectively ). Additionally, although not shown in Figure 1, any given set of power reclining chairs 171, or individual power reclining chairs, may include a plurality of sensors (e.g., temperature sensor, pressure sensor, limit switch, pressure sensor, etc. movement, strain gauge, position sensor, presence sensor, load sensor, etc.).

Referring to Figure 2, a location 200 may include a plurality of power reclining chairs 210 supported on a base (eg, a floor or frame) 205. Power reclining chairs 210 can be similar to power chairs 171 of the Figure 1. Any given power reclining chair may include a chair back 215, a lower lumbar support 220, a chair seat 225, a footrest 230, and an armrest 235. The armrest 235 may include a cup holder 236 and / or a power controller. chair 270. Chair controller 270 may include, for example, a first button to reorient the respective chair between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position (for example , a position of the chair as illustrated in Figure 3). Alternatively, a chair controller 270 may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 215, a lower lumbar support 220, a chair seat 225, a footrest 230, and / or an armrest. 235. In addition, a chair controller 270 may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and so on. Alternatively, a chair controller 270 may be similar to a portable computing device (eg, a portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or site interaction. A chair controller 270 may include a docking station and / or connection for a smartphone.

An associated power reclining chair system may include at least one emergency power input selected from a group that includes: a battery, a capacitor, a photovoltaic cell, an electric generator driven by an internal combustion engine, an electric generator driven by a wind turbine, or a hydrogen fuel cell. The at least one emergency power input may be configured to provide electrical power to the reclining power chair in the event of an associated power outage at the site.

Any given electric recliner chair can be a modular assembly having, for example, a single plug in the electrical connection. The electric recliner chair can be fully operated with only the plug in power connection connected to the electric recliner modular chair. The entire remote control can communicate to a modular assembly through a wireless communication network.

Any recliner chair can be installed so that a surface under the recliner is not coplanar with an adjacent walking surface. Examples of such installation may include: an area directly behind the ottoman raised to make it difficult to reorient items (eg, kicking or pushing) under the recliner chair; an area can be raised directly in front of the recliner back closure panel to make it difficult to move items (eg, kicking or pushing) under the recliner; and an area under the recliner can be tilted to promote movement of items under the recliner that move from under the recliner.

Referring to Figure 3, a location 300 may include a plurality of power reclining chairs 310 supported on a base (eg, a floor or frame) 305. Power reclining chairs 310 can be similar to power reclining chairs 210 of Figure 2. Any given power reclining chair may include a chair back 315, a lower lumbar support 320, a chair seat 325, a footrest 330, and an armrest 335. The armrest 335 may include a cup holder 336 and / or a controller. chair 370. Chair controller 370 may include, for example, a first button to reorient the respective chair between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position (e.g. example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 3). Alternatively, a chair controller 370 may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 315, a lower lumbar support 320, a chair seat 325, a footrest 330, and / or an armrest. 335. In addition, a chair controller 370 may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and so on. Alternatively, a chair controller 370 may be similar to a portable computing device (eg, a portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or site interaction. A chair controller 370 may include a docking station and / or connection for a smartphone.

Referring to Figure 4, a location 400 may include a plurality of power reclining chairs 410 supported on a base (eg, a floor or frame) 405. Power reclining chairs 410 can be similar to power reclining chairs 310 of Figure 3. Any given power reclining chair may include a chair back 415, a lower lumbar support 420, a chair seat 425, a footrest 430, and an armrest 435. The armrest 435 may include a cup holder 436 and / or a controller. chair 470. Chair controller 470 may include, for example, a first button to reorient the respective chair between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position (e.g. example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 3). Alternatively, a chair controller 470 may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 415, a lower lumbar support 420, a chair seat 425, a footrest 430, and / or an armrest. 435. In addition, a chair controller 470 may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and so on. Alternatively, a chair controller 470 may be similar to a portable computing device (eg, a portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or site interaction. A chair controller 470 may include a docking station and / or connection for a smartphone. While recliner chair extension / retraction functions can be remotely controlled, any given remote control function can be similarly used to control other functions such as massagers, heaters, cooling devices, etc.

Any recliner system can include a blower and / or vacuum element, which can help clean under recliners. Examples of blower and / or vacuum elements may include, but are not limited to: systems located in a reclining chair arm box; systems located on a reclining chair reclining mechanism; systems located in an associated floor area, or rear elevators.

Referring to Figures 5A-5D, power chairs 500a-d may include a chair back 515a-d, a chair seat 525a-d, a footrest 530a-d, and an armrest 535a-d. Power chairs 500a-d may be similar to power chairs 171, 210, 310, 410 of Figures 1-4, respectively. As illustrated in Figures 5A and 5D, a chair back 515a, 515d, a chair seat 525a, 525d, a footrest 530a, 530d, and / or an armrest 535a, 535d can be repositioned in a plurality of various positions, shown as Discontinue lines.

Referring to Figure 6, an electric recliner / rocking chair 600 may include a support frame 650, a seat frame 625 rotatably mounted to support frame 650, rotary actuator 655 mounted between support frame 650, and seat frame 625 to drive seat frame 625 to move relative to the support frame 650, a chair back 615 rotatably mounted on the seat frame 625, a linear actuator 660 mounted between the seat frame 625 and the chair back 615 to actuate the chair back 615 to move with the seat frame 625, a headrest 645 mounted on the back of the chair 615, two link mechanisms mounted between the seat of the chair 625 and the back of the chair 615 to move in tune with the back of the chair chair 615, and a footrest 630 mounted between the two link mechanisms to move in tune with the two link mechanisms. The seat frame 625 may have an upper end provided with two opposing rotatable lugs and a lower end provided with a plurality of wheels. The seat frame 625 has a rear end provided with a stop portion.

The power reclining / rocking chair may further include two suspension arms, each secured to the seat and each rotatably mounted to the support frame, and at least two reinforcing members located between the seat and the two suspension arms. respectively to improve the structural strength of the seat. Each of the two suspension arms extends upward from the seat and has an upper end provided with a pivot portion rotatably mounted on a respective one of the pivot lugs of the support frame.

The seat can pivot relative to the supporting frame in a pendulum fashion. The seat and has an upper part and a lower part. The upper part of the seat has a front end provided with two first through holes and a second through hole and a rear end provided with two through holes. The lower part of the seat has one side provided with a support base.

The rotary actuator may include an actuating member secured to the bottom of the seat, a rotating member rotatably mounted on the actuating member, and an actuating lever having a first end rotatably connected to the rotating member to move in tune with the rotating member and a second end rotatably connected with the abutment portion of the support frame. The drive member of the rotary actuator is a drive motor for rotating the rotary member. The rotary member of the rotary actuator is disk-shaped. The first end of the operating lever is eccentrically disposed on the rotation member and deviates from a central axis of the rotation member.

The two link mechanisms are symmetrically located on two opposite sides of the seat. Each of the two link mechanisms has an intermediate portion provided with a first pivot hole rotatably connected to one of the first through holes of the seat and a second pivot hole rotatably connected to a respective one of the second through holes. of the seat. Each of the two link mechanisms has a first end provided with a driven part that can be moved in tune with the backrest and a second end provided with a support part that can be moved in tune with the driven part. The footrest is mounted between the support portions of the two link mechanisms.

The backrest has a lower end provided with two pivot holes, each rotatably connected with one of the seat through holes and two push portions each rotatably connected with the driven part of one of the two link mechanisms. respective. Each of the two backrest pivot holes is located above each of the two thrust parts. The backrest has a top end provided with two mounting sleeves. The backrest has one side provided with a drive arm that is substantially V-shaped.

The linear actuator has a first part rotatably connected to the seat support base and a second part retractable mounted on the first part and rotatably connected to the actuating arm. Preferably, the drive arm has an upper end secured to the backrest and a lower end rotatably connected to the second part of the linear actuator. Thus, when the second portion of the linear actuator moves relative to the first portion of the linear actuator, the drive arm moves in tune with the second portion of the linear actuator to make the backrest pivot relative to the seat.

The head support may include a rest cushion and two adjustment rods, each mounted to the bottom of the rest cushion and each adjustably mounted to one of the respective backrest mounting sleeves.

In adjustment, when the second portion of the linear actuator moves toward the first portion of the linear actuator, the transmission arm moves in tune with the second portion of the linear actuator to make the backrest rotate down relative to the seat, so the backrest pivot holes rotate around the seat through holes and the backrest moves back and down. At the same time, when the backrest is moved relative to the seat, the driven part of each of the two link mechanisms is pushed by the respective pushing part of the backrest to drive each of the two link mechanisms to rotate towards forward with respect to the seat, so that the support part of each of the two link mechanisms moves forward and up, and the foot support also moves forward and up until the support to the feet are arranged in a horizontal state. In this way, the angle of Inclination of the backrest and footrest is adjusted by linear actuator operation according to user requirements to provide a comfortable feeling to the user.

Conversely, when the second portion of the linear actuator moves outward relative to the first portion of the linear actuator, the transmission arm moves in tune with the second portion of the linear actuator to drive the backrest to rotate upward in relationship with the seat, so that the backrest pivot holes rotate around the seat through holes, and the backrest moves forward and up. At the same time, when the backrest moves relative to the seat, the driven part of each of the two link mechanisms is pulled by the respective pushing part of the backrest to drive each of the two link mechanisms to rotate. back with respect to the seat, so that the support part of each of the two link mechanisms moves back and down, and the foot support also moves back and down to bend the support to the feet.

In operation, the actuating element of the rotary actuator is secured in the lower part of the seat, the first end of the actuating lever is rotatably connected to and eccentrically disposed therein of the rotating element, and the second end is The actuating lever is limited by the abutment portion of the supporting frame, so that when the rotating element is rotated by the actuating element, the rotating element is actuated by the actuating lever to move relative to the supporting frame. support, and the drive member is moved by the rotation member to drive the seat to move relative to the support frame. At this time, each of the two suspension arms secured to the seat is rotatably mounted on the support frame, so that the seat is pivoted relative to the support frame by the operation of the rotary actuator. In this way, the seat rotates to the right and to the left, so that the seat reciprocally rotates relative to the supporting frame in a pendulum fashion.

The electric recliner / rocking chair further comprises an electric control device connected with the rotary actuator and the linear actuator for controlling the operation of the rotary actuator and the linear actuator, an overload protection device connected with the electric control device.

electrical control to the electrical control device when overload occurs, and a timer connected with the electrical control device to automatically preset the operating time of the electrical control device. In such a way, the linear actuator is controlled by the electric control device to adjust the inclined angle of the backrest and footrest, and the rotary actuator is controlled by the electric control device to rotate the seat relative to the supporting frame. in the shape of a pendulum.

The headrest rest cushion may include a primary adjustment console and a secondary adjustment console rotatably mounted to the main adjustment console. The main adjustment console of the rest cushion is provided with a main toothed part. The secondary adjusting console of the rest cushion is provided with a secondary toothed portion which adjustably meshes with the main toothed portion of the main adjusting console. Therefore, the secondary adjustment console of the rest cushion rotates relative to the main adjustment console of the rest cushion to adjust the inclined angle of the head support. Each of the adjustment rods of the head support is provided with a plurality of adjustment retainers mounted adjustably on the respective mounting sleeve of the backrest to adjust the height of the head support.

Accordingly, the rotary actuator is controlled by the electric control device to make the seat rotate relative to the support frame reciprocally in a pendulum fashion so that the seat rotate relative to the support frame automatically, and the user you do not need to balance the seat manually. In addition, the linear actuator is controlled by the electric control device to adjust the angle of inclination of the backrest and footrest according to the user's requirements to provide a comfortable feeling for the user.

Referring to Figure 7, a power lift chair 700 may include a lift base assembly 750 and a chair support structure 725. The lift base assembly 750 supports the chair 700 in a normal sitting position. The lift base assembly 750 raises the chair 700 to an inclined position that facilitates a person to enter or exit the chair 700. Any of a wide variety of chair constructions can be used with the lift base assembly. The chair 700 may include a frame 761, side arms 735, a seat back 730, and a seat portion 725. The seat back 730 may recline in response to pressure from the back of an occupant and the seat portion 725 may move. simultaneously with seat back 730. Chair 700 may also include an extendable footrest assembly. In addition, the seat back 730 and / or the seat portion 725 may include a heating pad and / or a cooling device. The heating pad and / or cooling device can be selectively activated to provide heat and / or cooling to the person using the chair.

An exemplary lift base assembly may include a stationary rectangular lower frame member resting on the ground and a movable rectangular upper frame member on which the chair is removably but securely attached by suitable fasteners. The lower frame member may include left and right side members, respectively, which are rigid with a front cross member. The side members may have suitable pads that engage the floor surface. The upper frame member can include left and right side members that are rigid with a rear cross member. A linear actuator 760 can fit within the lower part of the member 750, the upper member of the frame 761, and the seat of the chair 725.

Alternatively, a lifting mechanism may include an electric assist means, such as an electric motor, a rotating screw shaft, and an internally threaded sleeve or nut. The motor may be selectively operable to rotate the screw shaft in a first direction or in a second direction. Both the motor and the screw axis can oscillate arcuately up and down in a generally vertical plane about a pivot. The screw axis extends through and drives the sleeve so that the sleeve moves forward or backward along the length of the screw axis as the screw axis rotates in one of the first and second directions. In the sitting or lowered position of the chair, the sleeve can be positioned near the front or outer end of the screw shaft. Lifting the chair is accomplished by activating the motor to turn the screw shaft in a direction that pulls the sleeve toward the motor. To lower the chair, the rotation of the screw shaft is reversed, which moves the sleeve away from the motor. An exemplary lift base assembly and lift mechanism are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,061,010, assigned to La-Z-Boy Chair Co. Although the above lift base assembly and lift mechanism described for illustrative purposes, it should be understood that other suitable lifting base assemblies and lifting mechanisms may be used with the present invention as described below.

An electrical control system for the motor may include a two-pin plug that fits into an electrical receptacle in general proximity to where the lift base assembly is used to provide electrical current to operate the lift assembly. Alternatively, the connecting plug may be a three-prong grounding plug that fits into a grounded receptacle. The plug may include an insulated cord or a power cord of suitable length. The electrical control system can also include a transformer, an electrical controller, a control rod, heating pads, a cooling device, a massage device, a motor actuator, and various male and female connectors to connect the components of the control system. electrical control as described below.

The transformer may include a power cord with three current-carrying inductors terminating in a male plug connector. The male plug mates with a female plug connector so that the transformer is electrically connected to the electrical controller through a power cord. The electrical controller may further include power cables. The power cord can include four current leads that terminate in a male plug connector and a female plug connector. The power cord can include eight current leads that terminate in a female plug connector. The power cord can include five current leads that terminate in a male plug connector. The plug connectors can be mated with counterpart plug connectors to electrically connect the electrical controller to the control rod, heating pads, cooling device, massage device, and motor actuator.

The transformer can receive AC power from a standard electrical receptacle through the power cord. The transformer can reduce the input power, for example 120 volts AC, to an output power. For example, the transformer generates an AC voltage of 12 volts and a constant DC voltage of 27 volts. The transformer can include batteries, such as 9-volt batteries, that can provide backup power to the electrical system in the event of a power outage. The heating pads, cooling devices, and message devices can be powered by 12 volts AC and the motor actuator can be powered by 27 volts DC.

The electrical controller can receive both 12 volts AC and 27 volts DC from the transformer. The electric controller can distribute the transformer power to the heating pads, cooling devices, massage device, motor actuator and control rod. The electrical controller can direct 12 volts AC to the heating pads, cooling device, and / or massage device, and can direct 27 volts DC to the motor actuator. The control rod can also be powered from the 27 volt DC supply.

The control rod may include a control cable to receive power from the electrical controller. The control rod can be mounted on a side arm of the chair or alternatively held and operated by a person using the chair. In addition, the control cable communicates commands from the control rod to the electrical controller. For example, the control rod may include indicating means, such as an LED matrix, and one or more control switches. The user can control the various operations of the chair with the switches, such as the raise and lower functions, recline functions and the "on" or "off" status of heating pads, cooling devices, message devices, etc. When the user operates the switches to raise the chair, electrical power is supplied to the motor actuator to rotate the screw shaft, the rotary actuator or the linear actuator in one direction to make the chair lift. When the user operates the switches to lower the chair, electrical power is supplied to the motor actuator to rotate the screw shaft, rotary actuator or the linear actuator in the opposite direction to lower the chair. The user can view the chair status information on the indicator means, such as the "on" or "off" status or the relative temperature indicators of the heating pads and / or cooling devices.

The control rod can be powered by a 27 volt DC supply. However, the control rod does not directly change the current load of the motor actuator. Instead, the control rod switches relays located on the electrical controller to control power to the motor actuator. In this way, the high current draw of the motor actuator does not pass through the control rod. In an alternative embodiment, the indicator means and / or the switches are located directly on the chair rather than on the control rod. For example, the indicator means and switches may be located on a side arm of the chair.

The motor actuator can receive electrical power from the electrical controller through the electrical connection of the power cord, the male plug connector and the female plug connector. The motor actuator can provide rotating power to the screw shaft according to the electrical power received from the electrical controller. For example, if the user operates the switches to raise the chair, the motor actuator receives electrical energy from a first polarity to rotate the screw shaft in a first direction. If the user operates the switches to lower the chair, the motor actuator receives electrical power from a second polarity to rotate the screw shaft, rotary actuator, or linear actuator in a second direction.

The speed at which the motor actuator raises and lowers the chair can be directly dependent on the DC voltage received from the transformer through the electrical controller. In the preferred embodiment, the DC voltage is 27 volts. However, the current drawn by the motor actuator can be proportional to the load on the chair. If the chair is empty, the motor actuator requires a relatively low current. If the chair is loaded with a person, the motor actuator requires a higher current. Conventionally, motor actuators receive a particular power input to control the lift and lower functions. As the load on the chair increases, the motor actuator draws more current. Because power is a product of voltage and current (P = VI), motor actuator voltage decreases proportionally as current draw increases. As the tension decreases, the lifting speed of the chair decreases proportionally. Thus, it can be seen that the lifting and / or lowering speeds of conventional power-assisted chairs were highly dependent on the load on the chair at a particular time.

In contrast, the transformer of the present invention can be operated to produce a generally constant DC voltage regardless of the current draw of the motor actuator. One such available transformer is the InSeat Solutions AC / DC adapter, class II power transformer model number 15541, which generates a 12-volt AC power supply and a 27-volt DC supply. If the motor actuator draws more current due to a heavier load on the chair, the transformer automatically adjusts to maintain a generally constant 27 volt DC voltage output to the motor actuator. The motor actuator receives a constant voltage regardless of current consumption. Therefore, the motor actuator can provide constant rotating power to the screw shaft, rotary actuator or linear actuator. In this manner, the power chair of the present invention can provide generally constant raising and lowering speeds regardless of the load on the chair. In addition, the power chair of the present invention is capable of providing constant raising and lowering speeds for loads up to 500 pounds with a single motor.

The time required to complete a full raise or lower cycle depends on the speed of raising or lowering the motor and therefore also depends on the voltage output of the transformer. Because the transformer's DC voltage supply is generally constant, the raising and lowering cycles will be constant regardless of the weight of the person using the chair. For example, slight voltage drops due to extremely heavy loads can make the lift cycle a little longer and the lower cycle a little shorter. While cycle times may vary slightly due to factors such as increased heat due to increased current draw and other process variables, a person using the chair can expect generally consistent lift and lower cycle times.

Additionally, the electrical control system can be operated to selectively control power to heating pads, cooling devices, and / or massage devices during motor actuator raising and lowering operations, allowing the transformer to maintain a rating. Class II. For example, if the user operates the switches to raise or lower the chair while the heating pads, cooling devices, and / or messaging devices are "on," the electric controller may turn off the power to the heating pads, heating devices. cooling and / or massage devices. Once the raising or lowering operation is complete, the electric controller will restore power to the heating pads, cooling devices, and / or massage devices. In this way, the electric controller directs power only to the motor actuator during lifting and lowering operations, allowing the motor actuator to receive the maximum available power.

The electrical control system may include other electrical components, such as a vibratory massage device, an air pillow massage device, or other devices known in the art. Additional devices can operate on the 12-volt AC supply in a similar way to heating pads, cooling devices, and / or massage devices. Consequently, the electrical controller can turn off the power to the additional devices during the raising and lowering of the motor.

An electrical power source can be configured as a "smart" power source so that, for example, a maximum power, drawn from a power source, can be automatically limited by controlling a series of reclining chairs that can be operated at any given time. For example, when a power supply is operating near a maximum limit, recliners, which are connected to the power supply and not yet being operated, are turned off until the power consumption of a power supply is reduced. associated (for example, the operation of a cessation of the previously operated reclining chair). Alternatively, or additionally, the operation of a previously operated recliner chair can be automatically suspended if, for example, an occupant of another recliner, which is connected to the power source, initiates the return of the chair to an upright position. Therefore, if an occupant of a reclining chair needs to get out of the chair for any reason (for example, an emergency), that chair will work and any other chair that is reclining may stop working. Alternatively, or additionally, any reclining power chair within a venue, or all power reclining chairs within the venue, can be configured to automatically move to any predetermined position (for example, a fully upright position, a fully reclined position, or any position there between) in case of emergency. In particular, the notification of an emergency situation within a location can be initiated through a central alarm (for example, a manually operated fire alarm, a carbon monoxide sensor, a smoke sensor, etc.), a sound detector (for example, a gunshot detector, a scream detector, etc.), and / or by a personal electronic device (for example, a mobile phone, a portable data assistant, a laptop or any other device portable electronic device that is communicatively coupled to a site emergency notification system).

Similarly, the operation of a group of reclining chairs, which are connected to a common power source, can be automatically staggered so that any given subgroup of reclining chairs can be automatically delayed (for example, to reduce inrush current - delay 10 mS), or the operation can be alternated so that the maximum power limit of the associated power supply is not exceeded. Therefore, a group of reclining chairs, which are connected to a smart power source, can be automatically controlled so as not to exceed the maximum of one power source.

An "intelligent power supply system" may include a power supply (eg, transformer 1496a, 1496c, 1496d) and a controller (eg, controller 800, 990a, 990b, 1090a, 1090b), and may include control / activate / deactivate any reclining chair (s) when communicating between chairs, monitoring the status of the chair (s) (for example, things like recline position and direction of travel) and can predict / anticipate the power requirements of the chair (s), including accessories such as heating, message, etc. to enable / disable / prioritize the power consumption of the recliner. Such an intelligent power supply system can control inherent power spikes, which may occur during normal operation, or a less critical action in a way that minimizes power consumption while optimizing the user experience of the chair. associated recliner.

Referring to Figure 8, an electric chair control assembly 800 may include a controller (e.g., a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a discrete component electrical circuit, a matrix (FPG ^a ), a microcontroller, etc.) / 860 actuator, an 866 power connection, an 865 power transformer, an 867 power connection cable, an 868 transformer connection, an 870 local controller , a local controller cable 873, and a local controller connector 874. The controller / actuator 860 can be a linear controller / actuator or a controller / rotary actuator. Local controller 870 may be similar to local controller 270, 370, 470 of Figures 2-4, respectively. Local controller 870 may include, for example, a chair recline button 871 and a chair vertical position button 872. Alternatively, chair controller 870 may include, for example, a first button to move the respective chair. between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 3). As another alternative, a chair controller 870 may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 215, a lower lumbar support 220, a chair seat 225, a footrest 230, and / or an armrest 235. In addition, a chair controller 870 may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and the like. Alternatively, a chair controller 870 may be similar to a portable computing device (eg, a portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or site interaction. Although not shown in Figure 8, the 860 controller / actuator may also include a battery. Although not shown in Figure 8, the controller / actuator 860 may include a plurality of sensors (e.g., limit switches, proximity sensors, motion sensors, temperature sensors, presence, pressure sensors, extensometers, etc.) and / or lighting. (for example, light emitting diodes). While a control module can be placed between a switch and a motor / actuator, a "smart switch" can be provided, which can incorporate the function of a control module and a switch in one unit; communication lines can be directly plugged into the smart switch.

Referring to Figures 9A-9C, an electric chair control assembly 900a-c may include a controller (e.g., a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a component electrical circuit discretes, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller, etc.) 990a, 990b, a 970c local controller, a 985b wireless data receiver, and a 960b actuator. Actuator 960b can be a linear actuator or a rotary actuator. Local controller 970c may be similar to local controller 270, 370, 470 of Figures 2-4, respectively. The 970c local controller may include, for example, a chair back vertical position button 971c, a chair back recline button 977c, a chair seat vertical position button 972c, a vertical position button chair seat 976c, a chair footrest vertical position button 974c, and / or a chair footrest recline button 975c. Chair controller 970c may include, for example, a first button to move the respective chair between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position (for example, a reclined position. of the chair as illustrated in Figure 3). Alternatively, a chair controller 970c may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 215, a lower lumbar support 220, a chair seat 225, a footrest 230, and / or an armrest. 235. In addition, a 970c chair controller may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and the like. Alternatively, a chair controller 970c may be similar to a portable computing device (eg, a portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or site interaction.

Controller 990a, 990b may include a chair reclined position indicator 997a, 997b and / or a chair vertical position indicator 998a, 998b. Controller 990a, 990b may further include a first connector receptacle 991a, a second connector receptacle 992a, a third connector receptacle 993a, a fourth connector receptacle 991b, a fifth connector receptacle 992b, a sixth connector receptacle 993b, a seventh connector receptacle 994b, and / or an eighth connector receptacle 995b. Controller 990a, 990b may also include a 996b battery. Although not shown in Figures 9A or 9B, controller 990a, 990b and / or actuator 960b may include a plurality of sensors (e.g., limit switches, proximity sensors, motion sensors, temperature sensors, presence, pressure sensors, strain gauges, etc.) and / or lighting (for example, light-emitting diodes).

Referring to Figures 10A-10C, a power chair control assembly 1000a-c may include a controller (e.g., a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a component electrical circuit discretes, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller, etc.) 1090a, 1090b, a local controller 1070c, a wireless data receiver 1085b, a first actuator 1060b, and a second actuator 1065b. The first actuator 1060b and / or the second actuator 1065b can be a linear actuator or a rotary actuator. Local controller 1070c may be similar to local controller 270, 370, 470 of Figures 2-4, respectively. The local controller 1070c may include, for example, a chair back vertical position button 1071c, a chair back recline button 1078c, a chair seat vertical position button 1072c, a vertical position button chair seat 1077c, chair footrest vertical position button 1073c, chair footrest recline button 1076c, headrest vertical position button 1074c and / or headrest recline button 1075c. Chair controller 1070c may include, for example, a first button to move the respective chair between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position (for example, a reclined position. of the chair as illustrated in Figure 3). Alternatively, a chair controller 1070c may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 215, a lower lumbar support 220, a chair seat 225, a footrest 230, and / or an armrest. 235. In addition, a 1070c chair controller may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and the like. Alternatively, a chair controller 1070c may be similar to a portable computing device (eg, a portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or site interaction.

Controller 1090a, 1090b may include a chair reclined position indicator 1097a, 1097b and / or a chair vertical position indicator 1098a, 1098b. Controller 1090a, 1090b may further include a first connector receptacle 1091a, a second connector receptacle 1092a, a third connector receptacle 1093a, a fourth connector receptacle 1091b, a fifth connector receptacle 1092b, a sixth connector receptacle 1093b, a seventh connector receptacle 1094b, and / or an eighth connector receptacle 1095b. Controller 1090a, 1090b may also include a battery 1096b. Although not shown in Figures 10A or 10B, controller 1090a, 1090b and / or actuator 1060b may include a plurality of sensors (e.g., limit switches, proximity sensors, motion sensors, temperature sensors, occupancy, pressure sensors, strain gauges, etc.) and / or lighting (for example, light-emitting diodes).

Referring to Figures 11A-11C, a chair local control assembly 1100a-c may include a housing chair control button 1170a-c, a chair recline button 1171a-c, and / or a chair upright position button 1172a-c. The chair local control assembly 1100a-c may include, for example, a first button to move the respective chair between an upright position (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 2) and a reclined position. (for example, a chair position as illustrated in Figure 3). Alternatively, a chair 1100a-c local control assembly may include a plurality of functions, such as individual buttons associated with independent control of a chair back 215, a lower lumbar support 220, a chair seat 225, a footrest 230 and / or an armrest 235. In addition, a chair local control assembly 1100a-c may include an audio output connector, a power output connector, lighting, a microphone, a speaker, and the like. Alternatively, a local control assembly of the chair 1100a-c may be similar to a portable computing device (for example, the portable computing device 169 of Figure 1) that facilitates a plurality of chair controls and / or interaction in the place. The local control assembly of the chair 1100a-c may be similar to, for example, the local chair control 270, 370, 470.

With reference to Figures 12A and 12B, a reclining power chair 1200a, 1200b may include a chair back 1215a, 1215b, a lower lumbar support 1220a, 1220b, a chair seat 1225a, 1225b, a footrest 1230a, 1230b, at least an armrest 1235a, 1235b (in some embodiments, a chair may include two armrests that are mirror images of each other), an armrest 1240a, 1240b, a support frame 1226a, 1226b, and / or a chair recline mechanism 1227a, 1227b . The reclining power chair 1200a, 1200b may be similar to, for example, any of the power chairs 171, 200, 300, 400. The reclining power chair 1200a, 1200b can incorporate any of the controllers and / or actuators as shown and described. with respect to Figures 6 10. Power and / or data cabling can be routed through cross channels 1228a. Legs 1229a and channels 1228a can be mounted to an associated floor and a modular reclining power chair can subsequently be placed in place on legs 1229a and channels 1228a. Legs 1229a may have predetermined lengths in proportion to the slope of the floor so that the chairs are leveled.

With reference to Figures 13A and 13B, block diagrams are depicted, for example, recliner chair control systems 1300a, 1300b. Figure 13A depicts a controller 1305a, which can be included in one or more locations per row 1320a, 1325a, according to section 1310a, 1315a, and can be configured to control all locations of chair A 1335a in a respective row 1320a, 1325a and section 1310a, 1315a. Alternatively or additionally, a controller 1305a can be included in one or more locations per row 1320a, 1325a per section and can be configured to control all locations of chairs A and B 1335a, 1330a, respectively, in that row 1320a, 1325a and section 1310a , 1315a. Any given chair can be, for example, similar to any of the reclining chairs 210 in Figure 2, or a group of reclining chairs 210. Z Control 1305a can control all settings. Various control and location options for controller 1305a are depicted in Figure 13B. The related control may extend and / or retract the associated reclining chair mechanism (eg, chair mechanism 1227a of Figure 12A). For example, individual chair location control can be provided using one electrical switch (eg, switch 270 of Figure 2) per chair. Alternatively or additionally, control of rows 1320a, 1325a may be provided by a master controller or multiple assigned master controllers 1305a in row 1320b, 1322b, 1325b. A studio control 1340b can be shown to control all chairs 1330b, 1335b by a central control 1305a. Alternatively, a study control 1340b can control any and all locations in all rows 1320b, 1322b, 1325b and sections 1310a, 1315a. Optionally, an end of row controller 1305a A can control all A locations in rows 1320b, 1322b, 1325b per section 1310b. However, optionally, a second end controller 1305a may control all B locations in rows 1320b, 1322b, 1325b per section 1310b. However, alternatively, one or more A controller locations 1305a may control all other A locations in a row 1320b, 1322b, 1325b per section 1310b. Also, optionally, one or more B controller locations 1305a can control all other B locations in row 1320b, 1322b, 1325b per section 1310a, 1315a. Still further, one end of row controller location 1305a can control all locations in row 1320b, 1322b, 1325b according to section 1310a, 1315a.

A remote controller (for example, a 1340b studio control) can be communicatively connected to a local control (for example, a controller A, a controller B, or a controller located inside each chair) via a wired network and / or a wireless network. A wired network and / or a wireless network can be bi-directional (that is, the remote controller can send data to controller A, controller B, or the controller located inside each chair, and controller A, controller B, or controller located inside each chair can send data to remote controller). Alternatively, each chair can include a control module (for example, the 1490e control module of Figure 14E) that is in one-way communication with a master controller (for example, a studio controller, a controller A, or a controller B). .

At least one first reclining power chair can be assigned to a first control group (e.g. control group A) by at least one of: a first pin and shorting block, a first push button, or a first memory entry ( for example, an ⁱ P address). At least one second power reclining chair can be assigned to a second control group (eg, control group A) by at least one of: a second pin and shorting block, a second push button, or a second entry in a memory. A plug and shorting block can be included within a control module (eg, the 1490e control module of Figure 14E). A push button can be, for example, part of a push button assembly of chair retraction / recline (eg, pushbutton 1171c or pushbutton 1172c of Figure 11C) or it may be a pushbutton built into a control module (eg, control module 1490e of Figure 14E). For example, a hole may be provided in a cover of the 1490e control module and a push button may be incorporated on an associated circuit board within the 1490e control module. In any case, each electric reclining chair, within a given location, can have a unique identification in relation to any other chair within the location. While both control group A and control group B can be located in a common room (for example, a single theater), control group A can be in a first room (for example, a first theater) and control group B may be in a second room (eg, a second theater).

Referring to Figures 14A-H, examples of reclining chairs and related control components 1400a-1400h are shown. Any given recliner chair 1400a-1400h can be similar to, for example, any one of the reclining chairs in the group of reclining chairs 210 of Figure 2, or a group 210 of reclining chairs. The recliner chair 1400a may include a reclining control mechanism 1427a, a control module 1490a, and a transformer 1496a having an electrical connector 1491a. Recliner chair 1400b may include a control module 1490b having neighboring chair interconnections 1493b, 1495b, a remote control module connection 1492b, and a local control switch connection 1494b. The 1400c recliner may include a 1496c electrical power transformer, a 1460c actuator, a 1490c control module, a 1493c actuator / control module connector, a 1491c transformer / control module connector, and a local control switch connector. 1494c. The 1400d recliner may include a 1496d power transformer, a 1460d actuator, a 1490d control module, a 1493d actuator / control module connector, a 1491 d transformer / control module connector, and a local control switch connector. 1494d. Recliner chair 1400e may include a control module 1490e having a battery 1496e, a first actuator connector 1494e, a second actuator connector 1495e, a first proximal chair connector 1493e, and a second proximal chair connector 1491e. The reclining chair 1400f may include a control module 1490f having a battery 1496f, a first actuator connector 1494f, a second actuator connector 1495f, a first proximal chair connector 1493f, and a second proximal chair connector 1491f. The recliner chair 1400g may include a chair frame 1426g, a reclining chair mechanism 1427g, and an actuator 1460g. The reclining chair 1400h may include a chair frame 1426h, a reclining chair mechanism 1427h, and a control module 1490h. As shown in Figure 14H, the 1490h control module may include a clear cover and a 1499h light. The light 1499h can, for example, be illuminated while the associated chair 1400h is in a theater cleaning position. Any given 1490a, 1490c, 1490h control module can be, for example, similar to any of the 800, 990a, 990b, 1090a, 1090b control modules. Any given 1460a, 1460b, 1460c, 1460d, 1460e, 1460f, 1460g actuator can be, for example, similar to any of the 660, 665, 760, 860, 960b, 1060b, 1065b actuators. Any given 1490a, 1490c, 1490h control module may include a chair recline relay output, a chair upright relay output, an emergency relay output, a lighting relay output, a combination of the themselves or any sub-combination thereof.

Any given controller can be configured to control a single row of chairs, such that all chairs are extended and / or retracted through a single input. Alternatively or additionally, any given controller can be configured to control a single row of chairs, such that each of the other chairs is extended and / or retracted by a single input. Alternatively or additionally, any given controller can be configured to control an entire theater control, such that all chairs in a theater extend and / or retract through a single entrance. Alternatively or additionally, any given controller can be configured to control an entire theater, such that each of the other chairs extends and / or retracts through a single entrance.

An associated power supply can be configured to provide high chain tension power between reclining chairs for ease of installation. For example, a single chair can be plugged into high voltage power and then extended to nearby chairs. A chair can have multiple outlets, such as an extension cord or power strip that other chairs can plug into. This can allow one chair to feed power to other chairs, for example in a row of chairs, thus eliminating costly multiple power outlets for each individual chair.

A mechanical mechanism may be provided in addition to, or in place of, the automatic mechanisms (eg, controller / actuator) to recline any given chair or group of chairs through an interlocking mechanical mechanism. For example, a "C" bracket can be included that can be placed over a chair arm and can activate a switch (extend or retract depending on the position of the bracket). Thus, a system can be provided for applying a force to activate the switch, so that a reactive force can be contained within the arm containing the switch. Alternatively, a rod can be provided which can be extended between the arms of the chair to activate a switch (extend or retract depending on the position of the rod). Therefore, a system can be provided for applying a force to activate the switch so that a reactive force is contained within the chair. Such a system can make it unnecessary for the operator to wait while each chair is extended / retracted.

A less sophisticated mechanical system can be provided in which one person walks down a row of chairs and applies a mechanical device to extend / retract each chair. With reference to Figure 14J, a reclining chair 1400j may include a footrest 1430, a first armrest 1435j, and a second armrest 1437j. The second armrest 1437j can be movable (folding arm) attached, for example, to the back of the chair. Alternatively, a chair may have a movable arm 1437j attached to an arm box. Placing the second armrest 1437j at the back can keep the armrest aligned with the backrest while avoiding interference with an adjacent chair occupant.

Any recliner chair can include a "pillow top" configured to cover at least a portion of a respective chair (eg, footrest, footrest, chair seat, chair arm, chair back, and / or a head rest). A seat and / or pillow back can be attached to an adjacent seat or back, respectively, thus creating a padding between the seat and the back that can prevent items (e.g. personal items or trash) from falling under the seats. seating surfaces. Alternatively, the hole fillings may not be part of the top of a pillow. A gap filler can be configured as: a gap filler with a temporary or permanent connection between a seat and / or backrest; a gap filling with a temporary or permanent connection between the chair arm boxes and / or other members; or a gap filler made of an at least partially permeable member that can be configured to help determine which items may fall through the chair while other items are constrained to fall. An example of items that can fall are popcorn kernels or liquids, while items such as cell phones, money, etc. do not fall below the surface of the seat. An example of alternative gap filler can allow liquids to pass through while items like popcorn, cell phones, etc. they cannot fall. Any reclining chair theater system can include passageways or openings under the reclining chairs that allow items to be moved to an area that is more easily accessible.

A pillow top (for example, a footrest pillow top, a footrest pillow top, a chair seat pillow top, a chair arm pillow top, chair, chair back pillow top and / or headrest pillow top) may be removable. Alternatively, or additionally, any / all pillowcases may include a fire retardant (or fire resistant) and / or bulletproof material (e.g. carbon fiber composite material, Kevlar, Lexan, grapheme, composite material, mesh wire, ballistic material, etc.). Therefore, in emergency circumstances, the occupant of a chair can remove the upper part of the pillow (or the upper part of the pillow) and use the upper part of the pillow as personal protection. In particular, the notification of an emergency situation within a location can be initiated through a central alarm (for example, a manually operated fire alarm, a carbon monoxide sensor, a smoke sensor, etc.), a sound detector (for example, a gunshot detector, a scream detector, etc.), and / or by a personal electronic device (for example, a mobile phone, a portable data assistant, a laptop or any other device portable electronic device that is communicatively coupled to a site emergency notification system).

In addition to including a fire retardant and / or anti-ballistic material as described above, a removable pillow top can include arm sleeves, straps, handles, etc., so that the removable pillow top is easy to carry and / or use as protection. In addition to, or as an alternative to, a removable pillow top, a chair seat, a chair back, and / or a chair arm may include fire retardant and / or anti-ballistic material attached to the chair. Consequently, the chair itself can provide fire and / or bullet protection.

As can be seen in Figures 14A and 14C-14H, an associated reclining chair 1400a, 1400c-1400h may include a rear panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h. The rear panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h can be removable or repositionable (for example, comparing Figures 14A and C with Figures 14D-14H), to provide access under any given reclining chair 1400a, 1400c-1400h. Alternatively, or additionally, a rear panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h can be movably attached to a respective reclining chair 1400a, 1400c-1400h, so that the rear panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h can be repositioned manually / automatically (e.g. , to a cleaning position (access) or a hidden position), and / or the rear panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h can retain the respective position until it is manually / automatically returned to the other position (for example, to a hidden position or a cleaning (access) position).

Any given back panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h can be configured to move in any direction while remaining attached to an associated reclining chair, and can remain in a position to aid cleaning and access. Additional directions of movement of the rear panel 1428a, 1428c-1428h may include: a hinged configuration so that the rear panel swings like a door (eg, a full turn or a Dutch turn); moves up; or up and out; either folds down, partially at an angle to the floor, or completely, so that the rear panel rests on the floor when in an open position. A reclining chair back panel can include parts made of different materials that can accommodate or allow relative movement to adjacent surfaces. For example, a reclining chair on a sloping floor may include a back panel, hinged like a door, and having a bottom edge made of flexible material (e.g. rubber, thin plastic, composite material, etc.) so that When the back panel is open, the compatible bottom material allows the back panel to open and not interfere with the sloping floor. Alternatively, or additionally, the rear panel hinges can allow movement of an associated back panel so that opening of the back panel is not impeded by floor or floor obstruction / conditions.

Referring to Figure 14K, a reclining chair 1400k may include a chair support frame 1426k, a reclining mechanism 1427k, and an actuator 1460k.

Referring to Figures 15A-D, reclining chairs 1500a-d may include an arm box 1535a-d having a cup holder 1536a-d, an upper side panel 1541a, a front panel 1543a, a lower side panel 1542a , a rear panel 1544a, an access opening 1539a, support structures 1537b-d, and a cable duct 1538a-d. A 1535a-d boom box with 1538a-d cable routing channel (s) may include some or all of the following: Assist in cable routing such as switch controls from inside to outside of boom box ; assist in the passage of cables from one side of the arm box to the other side; transverse reinforcement 1537b-d; built of members that provide no structure; contain members that provide stress relief; members that insert from each side of the arm box and thus form a cable management path; openings in one or more surfaces to allow additional cables or items to enter the cable management path; openings having movable members; positions of the members such that the members limit the entry of undesirable elements such as fluids; provision of a cover on one or more sides to allow an arm box to be covered with said cable management route so that the arm box can be used in situations where access is required from one or both or neither sides ; and / or isolated roads. A reclining chair may include cable management features to manage cables between the arms and with the recline mechanism. Any reclining chair system can include a smart power system mounted inside an arm box or outside of the arm box. With reference to Figures 16A-F, a 1600a-f reclining power chair system may include a number of plug-in electrical interconnects having, for example, electrical conductors (eg, power and / or data conductors) 1605b, 1605c, 1605e, a first plug 1610b-f, a second plug 1615b, 1615d, 1615f, a flexible conduit 1620b-f, and / or a restriction clamp 1625c-e. Any of the plug-in electrical interconnects can be, for example, Electri-Pak available from Electri-Cable Assemblies, Shelton, CT. Alternatively, or in addition, a reclining power chair may include modular wiring systems from Electric-Pak or Byrne Electric that allow the connection of components (may be UL listed to promote ease of code approval) that may be factory installed or in the place. These products can be fastened with clips or clips to facilitate assembly, installation or service. Such systems can cooperate with the aforementioned cable management system. Such system (s) may include low voltage, high voltage data lines. Such systems may cooperate with smart energy and / or clean sweep systems described elsewhere in this document.

A large number of different circuit board configurations can be used in any recliner installation. For example, a circuit board can have 2 inputs and 2 outputs. An interconnect can be connected in-line between a local control switch and a motor (eg, an actuator) and can carry electrical current that controls the motor / actuator. Additionally, CAT-5 cables can be included that carry control signals between chairs when a chair is in normal mode. A user's local control switch actions (extend or retract) can be passed through our control module via CAT-5 cables. When a chair system is put into "cleaning / maintenance" mode, signals can be passed through the CAT-5 cable to allow one main chair to control other chairs.

The locations of a circuit board and / or transformer can be attached to a back saddle board. Alternatively, a circuit board and / or transformer can be attached to a rear motor / actuator cross tube. A control circuit can be configured as a series connection between modules, can be wired in parallel, or wires can be eliminated (or reduced) using wireless communications.

A high voltage power connection may include a power strip / extension cord plugged into a high voltage supply with a receptacle end mounted on a rear cross tube, or a back plate adjacent to a transformer. A transformer can be plugged into one outlet and nearby chairs can be plugged into other outlets. This approach can reduce a number of expensive outlets wired in an associated building, and can employ an associated high voltage power line pre-wired in a chair. A rear panel of the chair can be removable to facilitate cleaning and maintenance of a controller, actuator and / or recline mechanisms.

Referring to Figures 17A-F, several views of examples of 1700a-f reclining power chair assemblies are shown. Power recliner assemblies 1700a-f may be similar to, for example, parts of power recliner assemblies 210 of Figure 2. Power recliner assemblies 1700a-f may include a chair seat 1725a-f, a 1730a-f footrest, a 1735a-f chair arm having a 1736a-f cup holder, and a chair controller (not shown in Figures 17A-F, however, similar to any of the chair controllers described elsewhere in this document), a 1726a-f chair side panel, a 1727a-f reclining chair mechanism frame, a 1785a-f power distribution panel, and 1707a-f power and / or control interconnect cables, 1711a- f, 1715a-f, 1716a-f.

With reference to Figures 18A-H and 18J-L, various views of the 1800a-h and 1800j-1 power and control assemblies for use in power reclining chairs are shown. The control and electrical power assemblies 1800a-h and 1800j-1 and / or parts thereof may be similar, for example, to any of the assemblies depicted in Figures 8, 9A-C, 10A-C, 14A-H, 14J, 14K and / or 16A-E. 1800a-h and 1800j-1 power and control assemblies may include 1860a-h and j-1 chair controller, 1890a-h and j-1 power supply, 1885a-h and j-1 distribution panel / junction box , a support panel 1870a-b having consoles 1871a-b, 1872a-b, a distribution panel / junction box to power supply cable 1805a-h and j-1 having first and second plug ends 1806a -hy j-1 and 1807a-hy j-1, a first chair-to-chair interconnect cable 1810a-h and j-1 having a first connection end 1811a-h and j-1 and a second end plug 1812a-hy j-1, a chair controller for chair control interconnect cable 1815a-h and j-1 having a first connection end 1816a-h and j-1 and a second connection end 1817a-h and j-1, a second chair-to-chair interconnect cable 1825a-h and j-1 having a first connection end 1826a-h and j-1 and a second connection end 1827a-h and j-1, and a power source. ation for the 1830a-h and j-1 actuator / drive motor connection cable having a first connection end 1831a-h and j-1 and a second connection end 1832a-h and j-1. It should be understood that any of the interconnect cables shown in Figures 17A-F, 18A-H and 18J-L may be similar to any of the interconnect cables of Figures 16A-E. For example, instead of a plug end, any given interconnect cable may have wiring (eg, a soldered connection) to a circuit board or terminal end. Any given plug end can be a male or female connection in accordance with the National Electrical Code Standards.

As illustrated in Figures 17A-F, 18A-H, and 18J-L, power and / or control wiring can extend under a chair arm box. Alternatively, or additionally, the power and / or control wiring may extend into a slot under the chair arm box, and may be secured in position using at least one of: consoles that hold the modular wiring in advantageous positions for avoid being disturbed during the cleaning of the place / associated chair; by a power supply (eg, power supply 1890b) that is secured in place; a chair control secured in position; routing cables through structural members of the chair (eg, box girders and / or structural channels); and / or preventing the plugs from being disconnected by means of clamping clamps. An 1800a-h and j-1 power and control assembly can be configured so that the panel is pre-assembled with an associated distribution panel / junction box, power supply, chair controller, and associated interconnect cables, so that the power and control suite can be quickly installed inside an associated power reclining chair without the need for skilled labor. Therefore, the installation time of the electric recliner chair can be reduced and the labor costs can be reduced compared to the electric reclining chairs that do not include pre-assembled power and control panels. A chair arm box can be installed, for example, against a lift without the back of the chair hitting the arm of the chair or lift when the reclining chair is reclined.

As shown in Figure 18E, any data or power connector can be held in place by one finger 1886e or multiple fingers 1886e. Therefore, no screws and / or similar fasteners are required to hold the connectors in place. An 1885f console can be mounted, for example, on the back of each power reclining chair.

Referring to Figure 19, a method of controlling a plurality of power reclining chairs 1900 may include assigning at least one first power reclining chair to a first control group (block 1905). The at least one first reclining power chair can be assigned to the first control group by, for example, at least one of: a first pin and shorting block, a first push button, or a first memory entry. Method 1900 may further include assigning at least one second power reclining chair to a second control group (block 1910). The at least one second reclining power chair can be assigned to the second control group by, for example, at least one of: a second pin and shorting block, a second push button, or a second entry in a memory. The method can also include causing the at least one first reclining power chair to reorient to a first orientation in response to a first remote control input (block 1915). The method may further include causing the at least one second power reclining chair to reorient to a second orientation in response to a second remote control input (block 1920). The first orientation can be independent of the second orientation. The first orientation can be a reclined orientation and the first control input is a site cleaning input. The second orientation can be a reclined orientation and the first control input is a site cleaning input. The first orientation can be a vertical orientation and the first control input is an emergency site entrance. The second orientation can be a vertical orientation and the first control entrance is a site emergency entrance.

The method 1900 may further include generating the first control input and the second control input in response to an automatic spot cleaning sequence (block 1925). Method 1900 may also include energizing at least a first light source in response to the first control input (block 1930). Method 1900 may further include energizing at least one second light source in response to the second control signal (block 1935). The method includes automatically prohibiting a second reclining power chair from beginning to reorient at the same time that a first chair begins to reorient (block 1940).

Method 1900 can be implemented by a processor (eg, processor 164 of Figure 1) executing a set of computer-executable instructions (eg, set of computer-readable instructions stored in memory 165 of Figure 1 ). Alternatively, method 1900 can be implemented using dedicated hardware (eg, one or more discrete component circuits, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc.). Although method 1900 is described with reference to the flow chart illustrated in Figure 19, many other methods can alternatively be used to implement method 1900. For example, the order of execution of the blocks illustrated in Figure 19 can be changed, and / or some of the described blocks can be changed, eliminated or combined.

Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been explained in connection with their preferred embodiments as mentioned above, it should be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is contemplated that the appended claim or claims cover such modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the invention.

Claims (11)

1. A reclining power chair system, the system comprising: at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410) assigned to a first control group, wherein the at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410) is assigned to the first control group by at least one of: a first leg and block of short circuit, a first push button, or a first entry in a memory; at least one second reclining power chair (210,310,410) assigned to a second control group, wherein the at least one second reclining power chair (210,310,410) is assigned to the second control group by at least one of: a second leg and control block short circuit, a second push button, or a second entry in a memory; a first remote control input for reorienting the at least one first reclining power chair (210, 310, 410) to a first orientation; a second remote control input for reorienting the at least one second reclining power chair (210,310,410) to a second orientation, wherein the first orientation is independent of the second orientation, and wherein the data representative of the first remote control input and of the second remote input are transmitted over at least one of: a wired communication network or a wireless network connection; Y a smart power supply (865), wherein the smart power supply (865) automatically prohibits at least one second reclining power chair (210,310,410) from starting to reorient itself at the same time as the at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410 ) begins to reorient itself. The system of claim 1, wherein the first orientation is a reclined orientation and the first control input is a site cleaning input. The system of claim 1, wherein the first orientation is a vertical orientation and the first control entrance is an emergency site entrance. The system of claim 1, wherein the first control input and the second control input are generated in accordance with an automatic site cleaning sequence. The system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one emergency power input selected from a group that includes: a battery, a capacitor, a photovoltaic cell, an electric generator driven by an internal combustion engine, an electric generator driven by a wind turbine or a hydrogen fuel cell, wherein at least one power input is configured to provide power to the power reclining chairs (210, 310, 410) in the event of a site-associated power outage. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410) or the at least one second reclining power chair (210,310,410) is a modular assembly having a plug in electrical connection and in where the electric recliner chair (210,310,410) is fully operable with only the plug in power connection connected to the electric modular recliner chair (210,310,410). 7. A method for controlling a plurality of power reclining chairs (210, 310, 410), the method comprising: assigning at least one first reclining power chair (210, 310, 410) to a first control group; assigning at least one second power reclining chair (210, 310, 410) to a second control group; causing the at least one first reclining power chair (210, 310, 410) to reorient to a first orientation in response to a first remote control input; causing the at least one second power reclining chair (210, 310, 410) to reorient to a second orientation in response to a second remote control input, wherein the first orientation is independent of the second orientation; Y automatically prohibit the at least one second reclining power chair (210,310,410) of the plurality of reclining power chairs (210,310,410) from starting to reorient itself at the same time that the at least one first reclining power chair (210,310,410) of the plurality of reclining power chairs (210,310,410) begins to reorient itself. The method of claim 7, wherein the first orientation is a reclined orientation and the first control input is a site cleaning input. The method of claim 7, wherein the first orientation is a vertical orientation and the first control entrance is an emergency site entrance. The method of claim 7, further comprising: generating the first control input and the second control input in response to an automatic site cleaning sequence. The method of claim 7, further comprising: energizing at least a first light source in response to the first control input; and energizing at least one second light source in response to the second control signal.