RECLINER ASSIST APPARATUS

摘要

A reclining modular seating section having a recliner assist apparatus for initiating reclining movement of the seating section and extending movement of a leg rest assembly thereof. The release assist apparatus includes an insert member fixedly secured to a drive rod of a recliner mechanism of the seating unit. A drive bracket is fixedly secured to the insert member and pivotally coupled to an L-shaped coupling bracket. The L-shaped coupling bracket is in turn coupled to a biasing spring which exerts a tensioning force to drive the drive bracket and drive rod, to thereby cause the seating section to assume a reclined position with its leg rest member in an extended position when the drive bracket reaches an over center position. A release assist bracket is disposed coaxially about the insert member and has an end thereof coupled to a handle member which is graspable by an occupant of the seating unit. By pulling on the handle member, the release assist bracket urges the drive bracket to an over center position, thereby enabling the biasing spring to continue driving the drive rod so as to extend a leg rest assembly and simultaneously recline a seatback portion of the seating unit.