ERGONOMIC CHAIR TERMINOLOGY
Wednesday, 29 July 2020Not all office chairs are made equal. There is a lot to consider when selecting an ergonomic chair, and there are many different mechanisms and options to choose from. At PCF Australia, we pride ourselves on ergonomic design and long-lasting durability.
Some common ergonomic chair terminology you will find across our product range includes:
2 lever mechanism – this type of mechanism contains a gas lift and back tilt adjustment. It is a more simple mechanism without the frills. This mechanism is usually located underneath the right-hand side of the seat pan.
3 lever mechanism – similar to a 2-lever mechanism, a 3 lever contains the addition of seat tilt, allowing the user to adjust the angle of the seat. This type of mechanism provides greater flexibility in adjusting your chair to the optimal ergonomic position.
Heavy duty mechanism – A heavy duty mechanism generally contains 4 adjustments – seat height, seat tilt, back height and back tilt. This mechanism is generally put on a larger chair and has a higher weight rating.
Synchronised mechanism – A synchro mechanism is where the seat and back are synchronized to move together, with each tilting independently as the user leans back. A ‘synchro mech’ ensures that the angle between the seat and back is always the same. The mechanism can also be locked, so the working position can remain at a specific angle.
Seat slide – Seat slide adjusts the seat depth, moving it forward or backward to a comfortable seating position to accommodate different users. It is generally an extra option on most chairs.
Tilt lock – Tilt lock adjusts the recline angle. The paddle can be pushed forward to unlock, and pushed back to lock in place. A select number of our chairs are lockable in 4 positions.
Ratchet back – the back can be simply moved up or down on a ratchet to adjust the back support to suit the user. It can then be locked into position by releasing the back at the desired height.
Drafting kit – A drafting kit is an extended height base that can be fitted on to a range of chairs, traditionally for drafting work. It has a built-in foot ring to relieve pressure from the legs whilst seated.
Adjustable armrests – These can be height adjustable only, 2 directional (2D) or multi-directional arms (4D). Armrests keep the arms at a relaxed position, putting less stress on the upper body and helping to maintain good posture. Adjustable armrests combat a ‘one size fits all’ approach and provide further comfort during long periods of sitting.
Tension control – In the form of a knob below the seat pan, tension control adjusts the resistance against the back of the chair. It can be tightened for further resistance or loosened to give more flexibility of movement.
View our seating range here
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