Designing a Reclining Binocular Chair: Ideas and Techniques

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around designing a reclining binocular chair, focusing on mechanisms for reclining and raising/lowering the chair. Participants explore various ideas, techniques, and materials for achieving a smooth and controlled reclining motion, as well as the integration of binocular mounts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using a hand crank mechanism with a spiral jack to raise and lower the chair slowly.
  • Another participant describes a hinge-based system with ridged circles that allows for reclining by pulling a handle, but expresses concern about the smoothness of the motion.
  • Some participants propose using electric motors from car seats for a more effortless reclining mechanism, discussing the feasibility and comfort of using the entire car seat.
  • A suggestion is made to use a screw jack directly attached to the chair for a simple and effective lifting mechanism, with the potential to power it with a cordless drill.
  • One participant mentions the importance of controlling the range of inclination and suggests using secondary leverage or gearing to achieve desired angles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of ideas and preferences regarding the mechanisms for reclining and raising the chair. There is no consensus on a single approach, and multiple competing views remain on the best method to achieve the desired functionality.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss various mechanisms and their implications, including the need for smooth motion, the practicality of using existing components, and the potential for modifications. Some ideas may depend on specific designs or materials that have not been fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY projects, mechanical design, or those looking to create custom furniture solutions may find this discussion beneficial.

  • #31
Danger said:
I just thought of something. If you can find a scrapped recliner/rocker chair (such as a La-Z-Boy) at a scrapyard, you could just replace the lever assembly with a gear drive and reupholster it.

The number one priority of the chair (besides to function) is to be portable. It needs to break down into enough pieces that it can be carried but not so many pieces that it's a pain to set up.
 
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  • #32
Ah, I forgot about that. Sorry. La-Z-Boys are pretty much riveted together, (at least, the skeletons that I've seen were).
How about a lawn chair? The recliner ratchet mechanism could be decoupled and tied to an automotive electric window crank mechanism or a screwjack.
 
  • #33
chair would need electric massage, port for 110V for laptop power supply.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #34
elec2050 said:
chair would need electric massage, port for 110V for laptop power supply.

Obviously. I mean...I didn't think that even needed to be said.
 
  • #35
has anyone suggested you look at the plans or the actual item called a steadicam. Buzz me back if you need some info or go to wiki.
 

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