You may love lounging in a comfortable chair after a long day at work. Or, swivel around when sitting with family or chatting with your friends. If this is the scenario, a recliner is something you need. These popular chairs have been a staple in homes for years, providing the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
However, with so many different types of recliner mechanisms acquirable, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is suitable for you. From manual recliners to many types of power recliners, each mechanism has its unique features and benefits. Let’s explore the different types of recliner mechanisms!
Key Takeaways
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- A recliner mechanism is a system allowing a chair to recline and adjust to different angles for maximum comfort, typically including hinges, springs, levers, etc., to move the backrest and footrest of the chair.
- There are two main types of recliner mechanisms: manual and power, with subtypes under each category.
- Manual recliner mechanisms include a 2-way tilt-in-space and a 3-way recliner.
- Power recliner mechanisms include 1-motor 2-way tilt-in-space, 1-motor 3-way, 1-motor wall hugger, 2-motor 3-way, 2-motor tilt-in-space, and 3-motor.[/su_note]
What Is Recliner Mechanism?
A recliner mechanism is a system that allows a chair to recline and adjust to different angles for maximum comfort. The mechanism typically includes a combination of hinges, springs, and levers that work together to move the backrest and footrest of the chair into a reclined position.
For your information, recliner mechanisms can be a type of either manual or powered, with each kind offering different benefits and features; I’ll discuss those types along with their pros and cons later in this guide.
Some recliner mechanisms even include additional features such as massage or heat settings for added comfort and relaxation. If we simplify everything, the recliner mechanism is part of a reclining chair, providing users with a comfortable and customizable seating experience.
What Are Types Of Recliner Mechanisms?
Typically, there are only two primary types of recliner mechanisms, manual and power, but both manual and power recliners are further divided into their subtypes. To better understand the differences, I’ll look at both the types of manual and power reclining mechanisms here.
Manual Recliner Mechanisms
Manual 2-Way Tilt-In-Space
Manual 2-way tilt-in-space is a type of recliner mechanism that allows the user to push forward on both arms to recline. For your information, while reclining, this mechanism maintains a constant angle of the back and hip and keeps the user in the same position.
Manual 3-Way
And, then, there is a manual 3-way recliner. All the user has to do is push forward on both arms to raise the footrest to a horizontal position and lean back to recline. If the user lifts their weight, the backrest will lift, and pushing the footrest will cause the chair to return to its original seated position.s
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Power Recliner Mechanisms
1-Motor 2-Way Tilt-In-Space
A 1-Motor 2-Way Tilt-In-Space power reclining mechanism is specifically designed to keep the user in a fixed position while reclining without changing the angle of the hip and back. This is particularly useful for individuals who have limited torso control or have swelling in their legs or ankles.
The mechanism is engineered to evenly distribute the user’s weight, providing ample support to the lower back and reducing pressure points. It is easily controlled with a 2-button handset and comes in different sizes to cater to different user needs.
Using this mechanism, users can elevate their legs without altering the back angle, thereby minimizing friction and shear as the seat adjusts. Additionally, the chair can rise and tilt to a standing position, allowing individuals with reduced mobility to independently enter and exit the chair.
1-Motor 3-Way (Non-Wall Hugger)
The 1-Motor 3-Way non-wall hugger is another variant of the single-motor power recliner mechanism that operates like a traditional recliner. As the chair reclines, the back-to-seat angle increases, and the backrest reclines when the footrest is elevated, reducing pressure on the hips.
This mechanism also includes a feature that allows the chair to rise and tilt to a standing position, facilitating entry and exit for individuals with mobility or flexibility issues. It comes in various sizes and weight capacities and is controlled by a user-friendly 2-button handset.
1-Motor (Wall Hugger)
The 1-Motor Wall Hugger power recliner mechanism allows for a chair to be placed very close to a wall while still being able to recline. Instead of moving backward as it reclines, it slides forward within its own footprint, requiring as little as 6 inches of space between the chair and the wall.
This makes it an excellent option for small rooms, apartments, and flats. The chair’s footrest will need more space as it moves forward, but the chair can fully tilt forward to aid in getting in and out. Like the 1-Motor 3-Way non-wall hugger, this is also operated by a 2-button handset.
2-Motor 3-Way
A 2-Motor 3-Way power recliner is a chair that has two motors and allows independent control of the back and footrest. Users have the ability to adjust the chair to their desired position for maximum comfort.
Additionally, the chair can rise to a nearly upright position, facilitating easy entry and exit for the users. Depending on its weight limit, it may have two or three motors, and the handset will have either 4, 5, or 6 buttons.
2-Motor Tilt-In-Space
The 2-Motor Tilt-In-Space power recliner mechanism is similar to the 1-Motor Tilt-In-Space, but with an additional motor that allows the backrest to be set at any angle during the reclining process.
This mechanism has two motors, one for the footrest and the other for the backrest, which provides greater flexibility for the user to find their ideal position.
It also allows for high leg elevation without changing the back angle and can rise and tilt to a standing position to assist users with getting in and out of the chair. The chair is supervised with a straightforward 4-button handset.
3-Motor
A 3-Motor power recliner has three separate motors, each of which controls a specific function – one for the back, one for the rise, and one for the footrest. This allows for the individualistic function of the back and footrest and enables users to achieve optimal comfort in a reclined position or seated.
These chairs also offer extra lifting capacity on the footrest and the ability to recline to an almost flat position. To use the chair, it needs to be placed at a minimum of 18 inches, aside from any wall or object.
What Lifting Options Are Available for Recliners?
Tilt-in-space chairs usually come with three pre-set degrees of lift that are tailored to meet the specific requirements of the customer. But these positions can be effortlessly modified to suit any changing needs of the user. These are the typical lifting positions for recliners.
Standard
The chair will be tilted forward to its maximum extent when in the standard rise position.
Mid
In the mid-position, the chair will initially rise vertically for about 8-10 inches before starting to tilt forward.
Vertical
If a recliner has a vertical position, it will lift the user without any forward tilting, as we saw in the standard and mid.
What Are Common Parts Of Recliner Mechanisms?
The following are the common parts of the reclining mechanism of most recliners.
Frame/ Base
The frame or base of a recliner mechanism serves as the foundation for the entire recliner. It is typically made of metal or wood and provides the structural support for the other components.
Footrest & Backrest
The footrest is attached to the frame and can be extended or retracted to provide support for the user’s legs. The backrest is also attached to the frame and can be adjusted to different angles to allow the user to recline.
Motor
If it’s a power recliner, a motor is responsible for powering the movement of the recliner, allowing it to recline or lift. It can be controlled by a remote or button and can be a single or multiple motor depending on the recliner’s features.
Gears, Levers, & Linkages
The reclining mechanism is the heart of the recliner mechanism and enables the user to recline the backrest and footrest. It typically consists of a series of gears, levers, and linkages that are activated by the handle or remote control.
Springs/ Tension bars
Springs or tension bars provide support and ensure that the reclining mechanism operates smoothly.
Bolts, Nuts, & Washers
Bolts, nuts, and washers are used to secure the different components of the recliner mechanism to the frame.
Locking Mechanism
The locking mechanism ensures that the recliner stays in the desired position and prevents it from accidentally reclining or returning to an upright position.
Handle/ Remote control
The handle or remote control is used to operate the reclining function and may be located on the side of the recliner or on a separate control panel.
Additional Features
Additional features such as a power lift function, massage function, or heat function require additional components such as a motor or heating element.
The motor is used to power the lift function, while the massage and heat functions may require additional wiring and control modules.
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FAQs
Are All Recliner Mechanisms the Same?
No, all recliner mechanisms are not the same. While there are two main types of recliner mechanisms – manual and power, there are variations within those categories, and they can differ between manufacturers.
Which Mechanism Used in Recliner Sofa?
There are primarily two types of reclining mechanisms in recliner sofas, manual and power, where both come with further sub-types. In power, a motor is used to adjust the recliner, while a different manually-adjustable mechanism is used in the manual recliner.
What Mechanism is in a Recliner?
Recliners can have either a manual or a power mechanism. The manual mechanism relies on a lever or handle that is used to adjust the position of the chair, while the power mechanism is operated by a motor that is controlled by a button or remote.
Which Recliner Mechanism is Best?
Well, which recliner mechanism is best largely depends on individual preferences and needs. Manual recliners are often less expensive and don’t require electricity, making them more portable and easier to maintain.
On the other hand, power recliners offer more convenience and often have additional features like power lifts or massage functions. In short, the best recliner mechanism for you relies on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget.
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