Chair Lift Thesis

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Chair Li For the Elderly: Adap on For Outdoor Furniture

Blake Ellis - Interior Architecture & Product Design 5th Year Master Thesis - Kansas State University

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Acknowledgments

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To my friends, family, and everyone that helped me follow through with this thesis. You’re love and support has been invaluable and this project could not have been completed without your help.

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Contents Project Overview

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Project Statement

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Project Objec ves

Research Phase Blake Ellis

Master Thesis

IAPD 815B

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Literature Reviews

20

Precedent Analysis

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Case Studies

28

Product Lifecycle Management

30

Material Analysis

32

Manufacturing Process

34

Standards and Codes

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Anthropometric Data

Fall 2019 - Spring 2020

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Concept

42

Conceptual Idea on Phase

48

Narrowing Down Ideas

Prototype

54

Prototype Phase

76

Refining Through Itera ons

Final Design

98

Materials

102

Remote Design

108

Chair Design

126

Bibliography

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Problem Statement A look at outdoor li chairs The problem chosen for this project was to redesign a li -chair for elderly use.

As me went on with research and market analysis, the market has shown that there was an immense amount of indoor li chairs. A er taking this informa on into account, a pa ern emerged that showed there was no market for pa o furniture that also served as a li chair. This was the problem that has been chosen to address.

The over arching goal for this project was to encourage independent living and help the user experience the outdoors more with comfort and security in mind. The stress on joints and STS (sit to stand) movement become increasingly more diďŹƒcult and stressful on bodies as they age.

Some of the key issues and concerns that have become evident are how the

The Problem There is no op on for outdoor li chairs for elderly use.

Photo Credit: h ps://sadi.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Ge yImages-968995194-1024x683.jpg

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outdoors will aect the mechanics as well as protec ng materials from the elements.

In order to solve this issue, materiality has been taken into account with waterproof tex les and protec ve housings for mechanical parts.

To further aid in the research and development of the product, literature was chosen to be analyzed for guidelines. The key findings from this were broken up into 3 separate categories: the importance of outdoors, chairs, and residen al furniture.

A er these sources were gathered, precedents were analyzed for their use as an assis ng elderly devices. These were incredibly helpful because they helped sparked design considera ons to best solve mechanical components for li ing capabili es of the users.

As far as residen al furniture goes, manufacturers are not required to adhere to code. However, certain codes and standards were taken into account to be used as design guidelines. These were highly important for the design as they provide a framework and restric ons to help aid in the safety and wellbeing of the user. Along with the standards, a look at how the manufacturing process for standard furniture was taken into account for a healthy work environment. In terms of design, along with code and standards, ergonomic and anthropometric data were looked at to help inform the best type of sea ng surface for elderly users that would not only provide the best comfort, but also the least amount of resistance to standing up comfortably.

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Project Objecাves

01 Li Chair

The overall goal for the first objec ve is to u lize exis ng technology for li chairs currently on the market and incorporate them into a new product for the outdoors.

The purpose of this is to create an easier sit-to-stand mo on for the users that suer from mobili es issues.

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Pa o Furniture The goal for this objec ve is to ul mately create a product that is an extension of comfort from the indoors to the outdoors.

The challenge for this goal is to create a weather-proof mechanism that can func on the same as its indoor counterpart.

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User Wellbeing

The last goal for this project is to keep health and wellness at op mal condi ons for the user through studies of ergonomics and how a product can boost self-esteem and self-confidence.

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Literature Review

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In this literature review the topics of the importance of outdoors, residen al furniture, chairs, and current products on the market will be looked at, which will provide a guideline for future design and development.

Photo Credit: h ps://barnimages.com/stack-of-books/

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Photo Credit: Illustra on by Caitlin Stephens

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Introducঞon General Problem/ Background

“We should not disregard the fact that up to 25% of the popula ons of industrialized countries are older people or people with a disability” (Jonsson, Oskar). With that amount of people, it is highly important that design follows suit to help them as they age. “In advanced age, people frequently develop physical limita ons that make it difficult to perform these basic ac vi es unaided” like standing from a chair (Baucom, Alfred H, and Robert J Grosch). On the topic of li chairs for elderly use, there is a clear gap in the current market concerning the outdoors. There is a sole focus on living room furniture for li chairs, where it’s usually a reclining li chair. The problem with these current chairs are that while they do allow for easier sit-to-stand movement, the li mechanism tends to draw a en on their difficulty in standing. In this literature review the topics of the importance of outdoors, residen al furniture, chairs, and current products on the market will be looked at, which will provide a guideline for future design and development.

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Photo Credit: h ps://stock.adobe.com/

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Literature Review #1 Importance of Outdoors

In looking at the importance of the outdoors for the wellbeing of elderly individuals, it’s crucial to look at the health and psychological benefits the outdoors can provide.

Health According to a study, being able to visit an outdoor green environment provides a posi ve impact on self-rated health among older people (Dahlkvist, Eva, Annika Nilsson, Kirs Skovdahl, and Maria Engström). From The Role of the Outdoors in Residen al Environments for Aging, a study of North American nursing homes showed that “32.2% of 1068 residents went outdoors less than once a month, and that only 44.3% of 131 nursing units had direct access to an outdoor environment” (Rodiek, Susan., and Benyamin Schwarz).

Psychological Benefits Likewise in the book The Role of the Outdoors in Residen al Environments for Aging, there is a compila on of studies revolving around the benefits of outdoor’s effects on elderly people “that provide evidence of the beneficial effects of interac on with nature on engagement (decreased boredom), sense of control (decreased helplessness), and social interac on (decreased loneliness)” (Rodiek, Susan., and Benyamin Schwarz). Star ng with the sense of control, “aging lowers a perceived sense of control because elders undergo a series of physical and social changes that make them more vulnerable to a general loss of control due to diminished adap ve capabili es” (Rodiek, Susan., and Benyamin Schwarz). With this in mind, it’s important to be able to include furniture that allows a regain of control, however small it may be. Likewise for social interac on, having an outdoor furniture capable of suppor ng those that have physical difficul es allows the users regain the opportunity for social interac on.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of problems associated with elderly use and the outdoors. One of the primary obstacles about this topic is that elderly people rarely go outside in a nursing home se ng, even if they want to. The reason for this is because staff or rela ves do not have the me to help them (Dahlkvist, Eva, Annika Nilsson, Kirs Skovdahl, and Maria Engström). The problem with this is it limits a person’s sense of freedom, self-confidence, and exposure to the outdoors.

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Key Informaঞon Takeaways from Outdoors Lack of Time Outside Photo Credit: https://www.vectorstock.com/

Although outdoor exposure is extremely beneficial for an elderly person, sta s cs show that 32% of residents went outdoors less than a month.

Increased Social Interac on Photo Credit: https://www.vectorstock.com/

Having outdoor furniture capable of suppor ng those that have physical difficul es allows for opportuni es to increase social interac on which will decrease loneliness.

Lack of Freedom Photo Credit: https://www.vectorstock.com/

Elderly people rarely go outside in a nursing home se ng even if they want to because there is o en a lack of me for staff or family to help them outdoors.

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Literature Review #2 Chair Analysis

Not only does the environment ma er for the health and wellbeing of elderly individuals, but the furniture in the space ma ers too. The idea type of chair for an elderly user should have a posi ve impact on the user itself. Comfort, ergonomics, aesthe cs, and support of the body are all highly important when a user selects a chair. In terms of sit-to-standing, research has shown that the seat height, armrests, and foot posi on were heavily a ributed to the success of a sitto-stand movement (Malone, Eileen B., and Barbara A. Dellinger). For seat height, researchers have found that a seat at a height of 17 inches required “97% of [the user’s] available strength” to be able to li themselves out of the seat. When raised to 22 inches off the floor, “successful chair rise doubled and nursing home and community subjects reported less difficulty” from rising (Malone, Elineen B., and Barbara A. Dellinger). Concerning armrests, their use play a vital role as an assis ve device by “reducing knee movements by about 50 percent without influencing joint range of mo on” (Malone, Eileen B., and Barbara A. Dellinger).

photo credit: h ps://stock.adobe.com/

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Key Informaাon Takeaways from Chairs Comfort Photo credit: h ps://www.joydigitalmag.com

For si ng in chairs for long periods of me, comfort is vital for the user. Comfortability in a chair can be achieved through cushioning which helps reduce pressure on the hips and back.

Seat Height Photo credit: h ps://info.thecontractchair.co.uk

A seat height of 17 inches is recommended because it oers a majority of users the easiest transi on from si ng to standing.

Armrests Photo credit: h p://posturedirect.com

Armrests are important to include on a chair because it helps ease the transi on from si ng to standing by allowing the user a way to support themselves as they rise.

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Literature Review #3 Residen al Furniture When looking at residen al furniture and current products on the market, recliners and couches are typically the most o en type of furniture u lized in a person’s home, typically seen in the living room or an outdoor pa o se ng. There is a great variety of interests, needs, and wishes from an elder’s perspec ve for furniture, but mostly a focus is placed on “furniture that provide comfort, pleasure, and independence and that contribute to the desired experiences of dignity, meaningfulness and freedom” (Jonsson, Oskar). An important note is “people prefer products that correspond to their own iden es or lifestyles” (Jonsson, Oskar). People don’t want furniture that can create a demoralizing percep on of them that highlights their weaknesses or disabili es.

A common problem I have noted in my research is the repe ve nature of manufacturers. “The problem is that chairs are quite alike…[and] manufacturers are…confident that their models need no change” (Cabinet Maker, 2005). The typical applica on for li chairs in the market is primarily focused on reclining li chairs that are usually very similar in style. Having an outdoor varia on of this type of technology would greatly expand the market be beneficial towards the users.

For outdoor furniture, several considera ons have to be taken into account. For starters, when incorpora ng a mechanical mechanism, the ability to waterproof the components is vital. Protec on from the elements is also incredibly important because furniture should be built to last. A prime example for a material for outdoor use would be bamboo. It is a “lightweight yet durable material; ... it is strong and also has great resistance to ultraviolet rays, protec ng it from discolora on”(Mest, C. Ellio ). For metals, a strong recommenda on is processed aluminum. Processed aluminum has an -corrosive quali es to protect it from rust (Mest, C. Ellio ).

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Key Informaাon Takeways from Residen al Furniture Personalized Photo Credit: h ps://icon-library.net/

A key aspect to keep in mind while designing is to remember that people want products that reflect their lifestyle.

Lack of Variety Photo Credit: h ps://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon/511732

Current furniture manufacturers copy and paste the same type of design for the same se ng.

Copy & Paste

Weatherproof Materials Photo Credit: h ps://image.shu erstock.com/

Being able to weatherproof mechanical materials is vital for the successful opera on of an outdoor piece of furniture.

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Precedent Analysis

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In the precedent analysis, the topic of li chairs does not cover a wide range of products. While the most prevalent are those that are recliners that are used in homes, there are also portable ones and some that require the help of another person. Each of these have a dierent basis for how they operate and this will be pointed out through the analysis.

Photo credit: h ps://image.shu erstock.com/image-vector/disabled-nursinghealthcare-icons-caring-600w-462541093.jpg

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Case Study #1 Pneuma c seat li

All Photo Credits: h ps://carex.com/collec ons/li ing-seats

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Descrip on

Features

This product is a self-powered li ing seat that provides up to 70% li ing assistance for those weighing up to 340 lbs.

Name

Upeasy Seat Assist

Manufacturer

Carex

Furniture Type Li Seat Environment

Home, anywhere

Users

Elderly

Materials

Steel Frame; Pneuma c li ; Polyester Si ng

Ac vi es

• Pneuma c li actuator li s up to 70% of body weight 10” high.

• It provides safe, controlled support to assist in standing and si ng.

• Self-powered; uses no electricity or ba eries.

The benefit to this type of mechanism is that the user does not have to worry about having a place to plug it in or have to have ba eries in stock all the me.

• Non-skid bo om helps prevent sliding on furniture. This feature is useful for the areas of sea ng that are flat and rigid, but for the so er sea ng this product may have difficulty.

• Portable - use in or outside the home on most armchairs or sofas.

• Equipped with a carry handle and folds flat for easy transport.

• Polyurethane foam cushion.

• Marine blue 100% polyester slip-on cover (machine washable in cold water).

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Case Study #2 Body Up Evolu on Transfer Li Chair

All Photo Credits: h ps://www.vitalitymedical.com/body-up-evolu on-transfer-li -chair.html

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Descrip on Th e Upeasy This product is an assis ve li ing device to help transfer people to where they need to go.

Name

Body Up Evolu on Transfer Li er Chair

Manufacturer

Veziris Healthcare

Furniture Type Transfer Chair Environment

Home, Auto

Users

Caregivers, Elderly

Materials

Steel Frame

Ac vies

Si ng, Showering

Features • Mechanically powered by hand crank. It requires no ba eries or outlets to work.

• Requires very low maintenance to upkeep and is very easy to clean.

• Lightweight and easily portable. The product folds into two pieces for easy transfer. This is a nice feature because it can be packed in a car for use everywhere, not just the home.

• Features a detachable base and back. This is highly important for the loading process for the individual because the base has to be put on the person and then a ached to the frame to li them.

• Can be used in conjuc on with vehicle transfer, bathing, showering, and for the toilet.

• The chair itself is waterproof so it can be used in the bathroom or shower. This is important because it does not affect the durability of the product and eliminates unnecessary steps towards bathroom func ons.

• The cover is machine washable and removable.

• Requires the help of another person to get the person into the chair, and requires hand crank mo on to li the person up into the chair.

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Case Study #3 Li chairs

All Photo Credits: h ps://www.pridemobility.com/p/lc-250

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Descrip on

Features

This product is a li -chair that helps the user out of their chair by mechanically raising the body of the chair.

Name

Classic LC-250

Manufacturer

Pride

Furniture Type Li Seat

• Quiet & smooth li system • Integrated ba ery backup in case of power failure that ensures the user can rise from any posi on.

• 3 posi ons for reclining • Standard head & arm covers • Standard large dual pockets

Environment

Home, anywhere

Users

Elderly

• Removable back

Materials

Steel Frame; Fabric Si ng, Reclining

• Transformer features self-diagnos c electronics

Ac vies

with 9’ cord. While having the cord is great for the electric mechanism, it runs the risk of a trip hazard • Easy-to-use 2-bu on hand control • Rolled armrest

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Product Lifecycle Management

DI S

RAW

AL S PO

MA TE RIA LS

1 6 PROCESSING

5 NG

3 DI

ST

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U TI

ON

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4

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USE

2

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1

The start of a product’s life cycle begins with the collec on of raw materials. In the case of li chairs, steel, solid hardwood, foam, and materials from other manufacturers are gathered to be processed.

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The second step in produc on is to process the raw materials into usable pieces to be assembled later. Wood is planed and roughed to size, steel is sheeted, and the other materials are prepared for easy assembly.

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The stage of manufacturing involves taking the individual parts and pieces from the processing stage and preparing/assembling them into the final product.

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The process of distribu on involves packing the product, typically in separate pieces for easier delivery, shipping them to retailers, where they can be eventually bought by the consumer. Alterna vely customers can purchase the product directly from the manufacturer.

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Once the customer purchases the product, it arrives fully assembled or they have to assemble it themselves. The customer then can use the product for its intended purpose. Along with this, the manufacturer or retailer can provide service and maintenance on the product.

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When it is me for the product to be disposed of, the customer can return the product if s ll under warranty, or follow manufacturer recommenda ons for disposing such as a recycling center.

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Material Analysis Typical materials for indoor li chairs

Solid Wood

Stamped Steel

Motors

In most chairs solid hardwood is used as the frame which is then layered upon to create comfortable sea ng.

Steel is stamped to create the framework for stronger connec ons and form the integral parts for movement.

In li chairs, these type of motors are used to power the li ing mechanism. These motors are typically linear actuators and move in one direc on.

Upholstery Foam

Polyester Ba ng

Fabric

Upholstery foam provides the cushion and support for the chair. Typically high density polyurethane foam is used in for furniture cushions.

Ba ng is the layer beneath the upholstery that prevents slippage and creates a smooth appearance by rounding out sharp corners.

The type of fabric varies widely, but it needs to be upholstery grade for furniture.

This is the final layer on any upholstered object.

Photo Credits (Le to Right): Solid Wood: h ps://www.woodshopnews.com/news/white-oak-is-neck-and-neck-with-walnut Stamped Steel: h ps://www.hplstampings.com/ Motors: h ps://www.dealsan.com/buy/li -chair-motor Upholstery Foam: h ps://www.sailrite.com/Foam-Series-Selec ng-the-Right-Upholstery-Foam Polyester Ba ng: h p://www.jhc-nonwoven.com/super-so -quil ng-material-100-polyester-ba ng-2.html Fabric: h ps://revolu onfabrics.com/products/toga

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Photo Credit: h p://www.madehow.com/Volume-3/Recliner.html

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Manufacturing Process

A er the ini al design, prototyping, and preproduc on phase are complete, the manufacturing process can begin. It starts o with a pilot produc on which ensures a successful execu on, then it can move onto full produc on.

Photo Credit: h ps://www.adap vespecial es.com/pride-mobility-classic-lc-250-li -chair.aspx

FRAMING

METALS

FOAM SHAPING

The frame of the chair is constructed from planed, measured, shaped and assembled wood. Rigid frames are put together with nuts, bolts, nails, or staples.

Metal die cu ers and stamping machines cut steel pieces for the moving mechanisms of the chair.

These are then a ached to the frame.

Rigid polyurethane foam is sculpted for the back and seat cushions. This is achieved by cu ng, slicing, or shaping the foam with saws to get the desired shape.

Photo Credit: h ps://www.frontroomfurnishings.com/?a achment_id=28668

Photo Credit: h ps://www.thomasnet.com/ ar cles/custom-manufacturing-fabrica ng/ precision-stamping-applica ons/

Photo Credit: h ps://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=wqodjNexy7w

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Photo Credit: h ps://chinamassagechairs.en.alib aba.com/product/60705557722-219546529/

Photo Credit:

Quality Control

SEWING

ASSEMBLY

Pa erns or templates for the upholstery fabric are cut by a cu ng machine that processes mul ple layers of fabric at a me. These are sorted and sent to the sewers. Next, the pieces are sewn together to make the body of the cushions.

With all the pieces complete, the cushions are stued and sent to be a ached to the chair.

The backs and seats are assembled to the frame, the moving mechanism is a ached, and the cushions are added.

Photo Credit: h ps://www.superiorthreads. com/educa on-thread-for-sewing-canvasand-upholstery-fabrics

Photo Credit: www.catnapper.com

One important note for the tes ng and quality of residen al furniture is that residen al furniture does not require consumer tes ng.

Quality is usually determined by visual inspec on, feel, and performace.

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Standards and Codes Manufacturing Standards by the CDC In the wooden furniture industry, the health of the worker can be placed in jeopardy by exposure to excessive levels of noise, wood dust, and solvents. The safety of workers may be jeopardized by inadequate machine guarding.

Dust Most dust in a woodworking production shop is removed by local exhaust systems.

However, many times there is a considerable accumulation of very fine dust that has settled on rafters and other structural members-especially in areas where sanding is done. This is a hazardous situation with great potential for fire and explosion. A flash fire over dust covered surfaces may be followed by explosions of ever increasing force.

In order to minimize the probability of this occurring the employer must: 1. Not allow dust to accumulate outside of equipment by instructing employees to frequently vacuum clean or use soft push brooms.

2. Control ignition sources.

3. Never permit blow down of accumulated dust with compressed air.

4. Provide continuous local exhaust to remove fine dust in areas where sanding is performed.

5. Have the local exhaust systems piped to a suitable collector.

6. Install explosion relief devices for buildings (e.g., blowout panels).

7. Instruct employees in the hazards of combustible dust.

8. Provide adequate fire protection (e.g., sprinklers, fire exit, etc.).

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/75-167/ pdfs/75-167.pdf?id=10.26616/NIOSHPUB75167

Fire Safety What is TB 117-2013?

TB 117-2013 is a flammability standard for upholstered furniture. TB 117-2013 mandates that, beginning January 1, 2015, all filling materials, including flexible polyurethane foam (FPF) that can reasonably be expected to be used in or as an article of furniture, or as a mattress pad without a covering, in California must meet the smolder-resistant requirements of the TB 117-2013 Resilient Filling Material Test.

Exemptions: Products Which are not Required to Comply with TB 117-2013 or SB 1019: Foam Cushions and pads that only will be used outdoors are exempt from this rule.

Outdoor fabrics must resist ultraviolet disintegration, sustain condensation and humidity, remain colorfast to prolonged exposure, and resist the growth of bacteria and fungus.

Source: https://pfa.org/fire-safety/

Law Label The purpose of a law label (sometimes called a Do Not Remove label) is to inform consumers of the hidden contents, or “filling

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materials”, inside bedding, furniture and other products.

Source: https://americanlawlabel.com/law-label-learning-center/

OSHA Construction Standards 1926.301(a) Employers shall not issue or permit the use of unsafe hand tools.

Source: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/ standardnumber/1926/1926.301

Consumer Product Safety Commission (16) ‘‘Electrical hazard’’—an article may be determined to present an electrical hazard if, in normal use or when subjected to reasonably foreseeable damage or abuse, its design or manufacture may cause personal injury or illness by electric shock.

(17) ‘‘Mechanical hazard’’—an article may be determined to present a mechanical hazard if, in normal use or when subjected to reasonably foreseeable damage or abuse, its design or manufacture presents an unreasonable risk of personal injury or illness: (i) From fracture, fragmentation, or disassembly of the article; Source: https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/04.12.2016%20Guide%20to%20US%20Furniture%20Requirements.pdf

Upholstery Fabrics AATCC TM35-2018, Water Resistance: Rain Test 1.1 This test method is applicable to any textile fabric, which may or may not have been given a water-resistant or water-

repellent finish. It measures the resistance of fabrics to the penetration of water by impact, and thus can be used to predict the probable rain penetration resistance of fabrics. It is especially suitable for measuring the penetration resistance of garment fabrics.

With the instrument, tests may be made at different intensities of water impact to give a complete picture of the penetration resistance of a single fabric or combination of fabrics.

1.2 The results obtained with this test method depend on the water repellency of the fibers and yarns, and on the construction of the fabrics.

AATCC TM93-2016, Abrasion Resistance of Fabrics: Accelerotor Method 1.1 This test method is intended for evaluating the resistance of fabrics and other flexible materials to abrasion.

AATCC TM111-2015, Weather Resistance of Textiles: Exposure to Daylight and Weather 1.1 This test method provides a means for determining the weather resistance of textile materials.

1.2 The test options described below are applicable to fibers, yarns and fabrics and products made therefrom, including coated fabrics, whether natural, colored, finished or unfinished. Test options included are: A - Direct Exposure to Natural Light and Weather B - Behind Glass Exposure to Natural Light and Weather without Direct Wetting Source: https://www.aatcc.org/test/methods/

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Anthropometric Data

Ipsum Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor.

Ipsum

Photo Credit: h ps://www.woodworkingtalk.com/f9/design-student-bent-plywood-lounge-chair-project-28027/

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Applied work Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. An portiliam autem, unu ego hus nocterfenine iam • Tam dieri intelus in te inatur, oportuam • Raum que feribun ihiliciisiam faus • Nonsulis, caperi fue inatesimis

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Photo Credit: h ps://pierreehmann.wordpress.com/2015/11/23/chair/

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Process Lorem Ipusm Dolor Sit

Applied work Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. An portiliam autem, unu ego hus nocterfenine iam • Tam dieri intelus in te inatur, oportuam • Raum que feribun ihiliciisiam faus • Nonsulis, caperi fue inatesimis

Initial sketches Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. An portiliam autem, unu ego hus nocterfenine iam.

• Tam dieri intelus in te inatur, oportuam • Raum que feribun ihiliciisiam faus • Nonsulis, caperi fue inatesimis

Photo Credit: h ps://pierreehmann.wordpress.com/2015/11/23/chair/

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Seating/ Males

The top drawing deals with the male dimensions based on 95th percentile data, the maximum body breadth dimension is 22.8 in. or 57.9 in., with a nude subject. The overall dimension therefore include, the individual width allowances and the width of the sofa arm construction, which obviously can vary depending on personal design preference.

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A

B

24

D

C

D

D F

C

15

A

B

24

D

D

C

E

Photo Credit: h ps://www.slideshare.net/MilliJain/milli-jain-anthropometrics-basic-drawings/18

Inch

Cm

A

42-48

106.7-121.9

B

6-9

15.2-22.9

C

3-6

7.6-15.2

D

28

71.1

E

62-68

157.2-172.7

F

90-96

228.6-243.8

G

40-46

101.6-116.8

H

26

66

I

58-64

147.3-162.6

J

84-90

213.4-228.6

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Sofa Seating/ Females

15

G

B

24

C

H

H

H

The top drawing deals with the male dimensions based on 95th percentile data, the maximum body breadth dimension is 22.8 in. or 57.9 in., with a nude subject. The overall dimension therefore include, the individual width allowances and the width of the sofa arm construction, which obviously can vary depending on personal design preference.

In spaces where seating is to be used by both sexes, the larger dimensions should apply.

Inch

Cm

A

42-48

106.7-121.9

B

6-9

15.2-22.9

C

3-6

7.6-15.2

D

28

71.1

E

62-68

157.2-172.7

F

90-96

228.6-243.8

G

40-46

101.6-116.8

H

26

66

I

58-64

147.3-162.6

J

84-90

213.4-228.6

J

G

15

B

24

C H

H I

Photo Credit: h ps://www.slideshare.net/MilliJain/milli-jain-anthropometrics-basic-drawings/19

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Conceptual Ideaঞon Phase

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In the conceptual idea on phase, the process started by crea ng mood boards and word maps, followed by crea ng poten al design solu ons. At this stage, the user interac on with the design is considered, and five separate concepts with accompanying sketches were created to be further narrowed down to two concepts and then finally one.

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Word Mapping & Mood Board

Photo Credits (Le to Right): h ps://www.sauger esfurniture.com/p/recliningfurniture h ps://www.kennardshire.co.nz/scissorli -7-7m-26 -electric-narrow.html h ps://www.mobilityscootersdirect.com/li -systems/li -chairs/pride-mobility-li -chairs/vivali -r-tranquil-plr-935m-li -chair.html h ps://thebackyardgnome.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ra an-furniture.jpg h ps://www.actuatorzone.com/electric-linear-actuator h ps://discoun urnitureparts.com/product/complete-li -mechanism-3q0036-jxl-li -base-assembly-motor-power-supply-handset-li -chairs/ h ps://www.spinlife.com/Pride-Heritage-LC-358-Line-3-Posi on-3-Posi on-Li -Chair/spec.cfm?productID=656 h ps://stock.adobe.com/ h ps://www.ge yimages.com/detail/photo/elderly-woman-si ng-outside-royalty-free-image/6410-000378 h ps://www.istockphoto.com/ca/photo/female-caregiver-helping-elderly-female-pa ent-to-stand-up-gm968995194-264146782 h ps://www.ge yimages.com/detail/photo/senior-couple-lounging-in-adirondack-chairs-on-a-royalty-free-image/108329619 h ps://www.ecer.compz58c8744-cz5a3b7e7-motorized-li -chair-mechanism.html h ps://vawaa.com/ar sts/sim-ra an-weaving-malaysia h ps://www.lovedays.com.au/products/hire-li -chair-single-motor-1-month.html h ps://pa oroofcovers.com/

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Modified Chair Li Base This idea is to take a li chair’s base and modify it to a ach just to the frame below the cushion. Waterproof upholstery will be placed on top to prevent it from being exposed to elements.

Photo Credits: h p://www.enhansit.com/

Retrofit Li ing Cushion The idea behind the li ing cushion is to take this exis ng product and modify it so that it can be used in outdoor se ngs. The seat will be redesigned to be more comfortable and will have moun ng op ons to a ach it to the chair.

Photo Credits: h ps://carex.com/collec ons/li ing-seats

Portable Li ing Cushion This idea is to create a portable li ing surface that can easily slide into the frame space of standard couches/chairs. s.

Photo Credits: h ps://www.firststreetonline.com/Home+Solu ons/Aging+In+Your+Home/Neptune+Toilet+Li .axd

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Air Cushion The idea behind the air cushion is to slowly inflate the user at an angle to help raise them up for easier sit-tostand movement.

Photo Credits: h ps://mangarhealth.com/us/pa ent-li ing/elk-li ing-cushion/

Li ing Belt The Li ing Belt is a re-configura on of the bath li , where straps can be used to change sea ng posi ons and help raise the user out of a chair.

Photo Credits: h ps://www.healthandcare.co.uk/bath-li s/relaxa-easy-li ing-bath-li .html

Feedback from Ini al Review From the conclusion of this review, these ideas are very similar to each other. Most of these are an a empt at modifying the seat base and or frame to have just the seat por on rise to not create an emphasis on the whole chair moving, which highlights trouble standing. However, Through this review, The last idea was found to have the most poten al because it does not involve modifying the seat base. It is in essence, a product that has many poten als by u lizing belts to help li a person out of a chair. With this , the next steps are to further explore this idea and create dierent itera ons from this concept. A er this, mock-ups with models will happen to help further solidify the capabili es of the ideas and will point the way towards where the project should proceed.

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Narrowing Down Ideas

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A er assessing the op ons, the li ing belt idea was chosen and two separate concepts were created based o this idea.

A small mock-up was made to test this idea and it was chosen because of it’s incredible adaptability to form to any sea ng solu on while also providing the li ing support needed.

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Li[ Chair Concept 1 The concept behind this chair is to use a fabric belt system a ached to a motor. As the chair reclines, the motor ghtens the fabric belt to create dierent sea ng postures and also allows for easier sit-to-stand movement

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Li[ Chair Concept 2 The concept behind this chair is using the same xplora on system of the first chair, but is more explora of what the base and movement can be. With this ube steel, and chair, the explora on is focusing on tube e while propivo ng points to create a sturdy base viding movement.

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Prototype Phase

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A er selec ng the first concept to move forward with, the process started by con nuing developing the li ing belt idea into a more concrete design solu on. This stage has primarily been focused on refining the overall shape and mechanisms required through tes ng and ul mately a solu on has been found to reach the required movements necessary for li ing.

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Chapter Preface The start of this process has unfortunately been hindered by the Covid-19 outbreak, which has disrupted the prototype process of actual developing a real life mo del to test. Fortunately, because of a chair I built last semester as a prototype for this one, I have been able to use the measurements, sea ng angle, and overall comfort from it to help push the current design.

Star ng with this chair as a base, amid technical diďŹƒcul es arising along the way, the current chair has been able to go through several prototypes as it leads towards the final produc on.

Pictured on the right are a brief view of the measurements and look from the chair produced from last semester.

22.64

41

15.5

18.31

57

16.01

32.30 14.62 21.35 14.5

3.50

27.00

3.5

18.81

27.00

22.5

16.5

17.25

32.30

41

3.50

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Iteraাon Process

Moving forward with the first concept, the design started with this configura on in mind.

With this being the ini al idea for the design, this was a very rough start towards the design that u lizes the basic measurements of the chair built during the last semester. With this design, the overall idea is the exact same as the first li chair concepts, but it takes a look at how the structure will be provided to allow for all the necessary movements This design is a rough outline that takes a look at human anthropometric data and how one tends to get out of a chair. While this first step is quite rough around the edges, the heart of the idea is there to use the belt system to help raise the user out.

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Fully Reclined

Lounge Posi on

Standing Up

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A er receiving very beneficial feedback, the net step in this process was to produce a further refining of the form as well as introduce human scale into the model to provide a be er sense of ergonomic development. Pictured on the right is some of the feedback that was given to help further enhance the design of the project.

What was talked about primarily in this phase was to figure out how the chair itself would react to each movement that would benefit the user the most. What was necessary at this stage of produc on was to create dierent mechanisms capable of achieving the required support and movement for the overall chair.

Key These colors represent the primary support and structure given to the overall frame of the chair to provide the maximum amount of rigidity for the chair to rest on (in red) and provide a support mechanism for the backrest to rest its weight on to. The green is to give support on the backrest so the back doesn’t move wildly out of place when reclining/rising.

This color represents the chair and the movement necessary for a proper li for egress from the chair. This is pinned to the support at the footrest to provide a pivot for raising and lowering of the seat itself.

This color represents the primary motor and fabric belt system a achment. As the motor rotates, the belt system can loosen and ghten to create several op ons for sea ng posi ons as well as li the user out of the seat at the proper angle.

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Sit to Stand Transi on

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Fully Reclined

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66

Lounge

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68

Si ng

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70

Ge ng Up

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Mechanism Ideas

Photo Credits: h ps://blog.orientalmotor.com/why-rack-pinion-systemsshould-be-considered-for-high-load-high-stroke-applica ons

Photo Credits: h ps://www.usgr.com/ven la on/rack_pinion_vents/

Rack and Pin System

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Motors will be housed within the arm structure to protect them from the elements and can be maintenanced through access panels on the side. The rack and pin motor system is a sta onary plate that has a free moving arm (the rack) a ached to the motor head (the pin). This setup allows for a great amount of weight to be moved at one me and can provide the necessary force needed to raise and lower the backrest and seat.

Seat Support

Seat base can pivot along the footrest connec on and ride along the track embedded in the arm support and back.

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Feedback

The feedback from this review has highlighted some issues that will be addressed in the next itera on.

1.) The armrest needs a grip at the end to prevent hands from sliding o. This feature is needed to prevent the user from slipping right out of the chair and preven ng poten al falling and injury. In this feature, the controls for raising and lowering the seat angle, belt system, seat height, and footrest can be placed.

2.) The arms of the chair are too bulky as of now. By tapering the legs at the ends, the chair can s ll provided the same support while giving a much lighter aesthe c to the design.

3.) A headrest addi on can be added to the top to create a track for the fabric to go between to not only add comfort, but also add protec on and reduce fric on on the fabric belt over me.

4.) A cushion can be sewn into the seat base to provide a li ing support and overall comfort on the base. A system discussed that could be implemented is the purple seat cushion since it provides easy comfort and flexibility in stretch.

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Refining Through Iteraঞons

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The following series of images are a compila on of the design process through sketches and feedback of what to change.

These serve as a meline of how the ini al idea went from concept to the step before the final design.

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Mechanism Process

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Mechanism Process

Precedent: Transformable Chair

Photo Credit: h ps://www.core77.com/posts/70088/Transforming-Furniture-An-OďŹƒce-Chair-That-Turns-Into-Lounge-Chair

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This transformable chair plays a huge inspira on into how the mechanics of the chair operates through the way the backrest can slide down on the back support to create dierent sea ng posi ons.

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Mechanism Process The idea behind this design choice was that a main motor is a ached to drive belts that move the backrest bar and seat bar along tracks welded to the arm base.

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Headrest Process

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With the headrest, this was chosen as an op onal a achment a ached to elas c straps so that the cushion can be pivoted easier. Using a tempurpedic pillow as a base, the design turned from reducing fric on along a rolling foam pin to be more rounded and suppor ng for the neck.

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Arm Base Development with Hand Grip The overall shape came from suppor ng mul ple res ng posi ons and has he middle support to house the track for the seat to raise and lower on. One problem that wasn’t addressed during the reviews was that the armrest didnt have an easy surface to grab and hold onto to support yourself as you raise and lower.

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Photo Credit: Produc on Ergonomics: Designing Work Systems to Support Op mal Human Performance - Scien fic Figure on ResearchGate.

Available from: h ps://www.researchgate.net/figure/Overview-of-the-gripping-func onality-of-the-hand-Images-by-C-Adams-All-rights_ fig15_317984098 [accessed 16 Apr, 2020]

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Side Panel Connecাon Process

89

Bent male tabs are placed on the panel and slot into female components a ached to the main body. Then the body can have a strong magnet to keep it in place or it can have extra security and be screwed to a moun ng plate.

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Footrest Mechanism Process

91

Making folded metal connec on point to support base and provide easier movement with a motor

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Armrest Process

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Backrest Process

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Remote Control Process Using exisাng li[ chair remote as a basis

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Materials

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The current selec on of materials were chosen based on their price point, structural quali es, and how they can stand up to being exposed to the outdoors.

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Materials Chosen (Ordered from most to least used)

Photo Credit: h ps://www.ncaluminum.com/powder-coated/

Aluminum (Powder-coated)

Chosen for the main structural elements for it’s light-weight, high strength, and an rust proper es. It is powder-coated to give longevity and protect the user from heat since the product is intended for outdoors

Photo Credit: h ps://ocoochhardwoods.com/scroll-sawlumber/WhiteOak/

White Oak

Solid white oak is used in the armrest because of aesthe c quala es, weather resistance, and durability over me.

Photo Credit: h ps://www.sunbrella.com/browsefabrics/fabrics-by-use/outdoor-fabric

Sunbrella Fabric

This product is inteded for outdoor use and will be used on the upholstery and fabric belt system. It has an -fade, an rot, and an -mold proper es that make it perfect for the user and intended se ng.

Photo Credit: h ps://woodworldtx.com/products/bending-plywood-purebond?variant=40334746250

Plywood

Bending plywood is used in the main body of the backrest and seat base based on price and structural ability,

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Photo Credit: h p://clarkfoam.net/por olio/dry-fast-foam/

Dryfast foam

This product is inteded for outdoor use as cushioning. It features an -mold proper es and provides fast drying comfort for the user.

Photo Credit: h ps://www.behance.net/ gallery/60064327/20-Seamless-Brushed-Metal-Background-Textures-DOWNLOAD

Steel

Steel is used in the smaller parts and pieces for mechanical components that require precision in movement. The higher the chromium content, the more an -rust proper es it has.

Photo Credit: h ps://www.tapplas cs.com/product/plas cs/ cut_to_size_plas c/hdpe_cu ng_boards/346

(HDPE)

High-Density Polyethylene

HDPE is used in the side panels surrounding the cushions to provide and color op on, It is chosen for it’s durability and resistance to fading in an outdoor se ng

Photo Credit: h ps://www.polymax.co.uk/rubber-cords/vitonrubber-cord/ m-viton-rubber-cord

Rubber

Rubber elements are used to provide waterproofing in the arm panel to protect the motors as well as for grip and feel in the remote.

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Remote Design

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104

Ac vates the belt mechanism to gently raise and lower you from the chair

Backrest Control

Footrest Control

Rubber base for grip and feel

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Backlit LED bu ons to see easier

Press and hold bu on to set at desired posi on

Rubber feet for slip resistance

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2.03

1.45 1.92 .16

Back View

Front View

2.14

1.67

.95 .18

.8 .5

6.6 1.18

.92

5.34 .62

Bra 2.04

o ol (b;

Front View

107

.55

1.1 16 1.9

Retractable cord 1.25

1.74 1.16

.52

8

Side Views 1.13

Braille for ease of use

omol;|ub1 (b;

Scale: 1"=1"

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Chair Design

109 110 09 0 9

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111

112

Isometric View

Front View

Isometric View

Top View

Back View

Right Sid

o ol (b;

e View

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Isometric View

;[ "b7; (b;‰

Isometric View Scale: 3/4"= 1'

114

Backrest bar

Main motor

Track for gears (backrest and seat positioning) Gears attach to main motor that control the back positioning and the seat height

Drive Belts Mounting Plates (screws to main body)

Arm Panel E SCALE 1-

xploded Axon 1/2" = 1'-0"

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Remote Arm Cushion

Wood Arm Base Powder-coated Aluminum Body Female connection for arm panel tabs Motor that controls footrest positioning

Motor clamp to keep the motor in place

Pins for guiding and tensioning the drive belt

Arm Panel tabs

Powder-Coated Aluminum Arm Cover Panel

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B

B

A

A

SECTION B-B

117

DETAIL D

D

SECTION A-A

118

G

22.3

14.5

7.7 30.3 20.5

5.7

2.5 27.5 G TOP VIEW SCALE: 1 1/2"=1'0"

39

119

Fabric slots into motor body for easy removal for washing / changing

DETAIL H SCALE 1:4 15.2 30.3 15.2

25.9 15 H

7

SECTION G-G SCALE 1-1/2" = 1'-0"

17.8

120

E

121

F

CHAIR BODY EXPLOSION

122

DETAIL E SCALE 3" = 1'-0"

123

DETAIL F SCALE 3" = 1'-0"

124

125

126

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Curved PowerRack Rack and Pinion Vents. (2019). Usgr.Com. h ps://www.usgr. com/ven la on/rack_pinion_vents/ Cu ng Boards HDPE Cut-To-Size : TAP Plas cs. (2020). Tapplas cs.Com. h ps:// www.tapplas cs.com/product/plas cs/cut_to_size_plas c/hdpe_cu ng_ boards/346 Dahlkvist, Eva, Annika Nilsson, Kirs Skovdahl, and Maria Engström. 2014. “Is There a Caring Perspec ve in Garden/Pa o Design in Elderly Care?

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Decor Interiors. (2019, November 6). Outdoor Furniture Materials Guide. Interior Design News, Trends & Tips; Decor Interiors. h ps://decorinteriorsus.com/ blog/in-depth-ar cles/outdoor-furniture-materials-guide/ Design Student Bent Plywood Lounge Chair Project - Woodworking Talk Woodworkers Forum. (2016). Woodworkingtalk.Com. h ps://www. woodworkingtalk.com/f9/design-student-bent-plywood-lounge-chairproject-28027/ Dry-Fast Foam | Clark Foam Products. (2014). Clarkfoam.Net. h p://clarkfoam.net/ por olio/dry-fast-foam/ FKM (Viton®) Rubber Cord Diameter (mm) 1 Tolerance (±mm) 0.4. (2020). Viton (FKM) Rubber Cord Suppliers - Polymax. Polymax.Co.Uk; Polymax Ltd. h ps:// www.polymax.co.uk/rubber-cords/viton-rubber-cord/ m-viton-rubber-cord How recliner is made - material, making, history, used, parts, components, product, machine, History. (2014). Madehow.Com. h p://www.madehow.com/ Volume-3/Recliner.html Huber, Andreas. 2008. New Approaches To Housing For The Second Half Of Life.

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Johann Tang. (2019). Why Rack & Pinion Systems Should Be Considered for High Load, Long Stroke Applica ons (VIDEO). Orientalmotor.Com. h ps://blog. orientalmotor.com/why-rack-pinion-systems-should-be-considered-for-highload-high-stroke-applica ons Jonsson, Oskar. “Furniture for Later Life: Design Based on Older People’s Experiences of Furniture in Three Housing Forms.” 2013, 2013.

Li ing Seats. (2020). Carex.Com. h ps://carex.com/collec ons/li ing-seats Malone, Eileen B., and Barbara A. Dellinger. “Furniture design features and healthcare outcomes.” Concord, CA: The Center for Health Design (2011).

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Mest, C. Ellio . “Materials and composi on: outdoor furniture.” Hotel Management, November 2013, 58. Gale Academic Onefile (accessed October 6, 2019). h ps://link-gale-com.er.lib.k-state.edu/apps/doc/A351613311/AONE?u=ksu& sid=AONE&xid=d4859c69.

MilliJain. (2018, February 27). Milli Jain: Anthropometrics (Basic Drawings). Slideshare.

Net. h ps://www.slideshare.net/MilliJain/milli-jain-anthropometrics-basicdrawings/18 MilliJain. (2018, February 27). Milli Jain: Anthropometrics (Basic Drawings). Slideshare.

Net. h ps://www.slideshare.net/MilliJain/milli-jain-anthropometrics-basicdrawings/19 Ocooch Hardwoods. (2020). White Oak Hardwood - White Oak Wood Lumber and Thin Boards | Ocooch Hardwoods. Ocoochhardwoods.Com. h ps:// ocoochhardwoods.com/scroll-saw-lumber/WhiteOak/ Pride Mobility Products Corp. (2013). LC-250 Essen al Li Chair :: Li Recliners | Pride Mobility®. Pride Mobility Products Corp. h ps://www.pridemobility. com/pride-power-li -recliners/essen al-lc-250/ Relaxa Easy Li ing Belt Bath Li . (2019, December 17). Relaxa Easy Li ing Belt Bath Li . Health and Care. h ps://www.healthandcare.co.uk/bath-li s/relaxa-easyli ing-bath-li .html Rodiek, Susan., and Benyamin. Schwarz. The Role of the Outdoors in Residen al Environments for Aging. New York: Haworth Press, 2005.

STOCK, I. (2020). Body Up Evolu on Transfer Li Chair | BU1000 BU2000.

Vitalitymedical.Com. h ps://www.vitalitymedical.com/body-up-evolu ontransfer-li -chair.html Sunbrella. (2020). Sunbrella. h ps://www.sunbrella.com/browse-fabrics/fabrics-byuse/outdoor-fabric

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Toilet Li Seat | Elevated Toilet Seat Riser - FirstSTREET Unique Gi s, Products for Seniors. (2020). Firststreetonline.Com. h ps://www.firststreetonline.com/ Home+Solu ons/Aging+In+Your+Home/Neptune+Toilet+Li .axd Ubiquity Press. (2017, June 28). Figure 2.18: Overview of the gripping func onality of the hand. Images... ResearchGate; ResearchGate. h ps://www.researchgate. net/figure/Overview-of-the-gripping-func onality-of-the-hand-Images-by-CAdams-All-rights_fig15_317984098

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