Methods for controlling massage chairs

There have been numerous articles on our blog so far explaining how massage chairs work , including their various features. With this post, we're going back to the basics, which may not be obvious to someone who has no experience with massage chairs .

The chair can be controlled in many ways, not just by remote control.

The design of the remote control and the functions it can control naturally depend on the technological sophistication of the model.

Now let's get to the point, that is, the different types of controls for massage chairs.

INTEGRATED ARMREST CONTROLS

Economical massage chairs that offer basic features have easy-to-use controls built into the chair.

These controllers are all very similar in appearance. What they also have in common is that the activated functions are indicated by LEDs.

In some models, the controller is used to select an automatic program, the position of the massage arms, the massage technique, and the intensity levels of the air massage.

TRADITIONAL CONTROL UNITS

The most common way to control massage chairs is via a control unit that is connected to the body of the chair with a cable.

In some models it is a controller without a display, and the function change is indicated by sound and LEDs.

More advanced chairs feature classic control panels with displays. Their design and operation are quite similar.

The active functions and the selected massage parameters are displayed on the screen.

Thanks to the navigation buttons, switching between settings is easy and intuitive.

Selected settings can also be changed without going through the controller menu – for example, extending the massage time or selecting a technique (depending on the model).

The layout of the buttons on the chair's controller is well thought out, allowing the user to easily find the main functions and adjust the massage parameters to their needs.

TOUCHSCREEN CONTROL UNITS

NAIPO has opted for a combination of the buttons of a traditional controller (basic functions such as power on, tilt, heating, etc.) with a touchscreen – this makes it possible, for example, to select an automatic program or adjust massage parameters (intensity, position of the massage arms, or focusing the massage on a specific part).

This solution allows quick access to the most frequently used functions and makes it easier to dive into dozens of advanced settings. In principle, a tablet isn't necessary for everyone considering purchasing a massage chair .

TOUCHSCREEN CONTROL

Other models are controlled differently – all are equipped with a touch panel, or rather two types of them.

The chairs have controllers with touch-sensitive buttons arranged around a color display. Other models are controlled by a panel whose entire surface is touch-sensitive.

In these chairs, the arrangement of the buttons depends on the current interface screen displayed.

This is a very convenient way of control: despite the abundance of functions, it is easy to switch from one menu setting to the next, each screen is intuitive, clear and easy to understand.

CONTROL WITH A OWN APP

Another way to control it is via a mobile app that can be installed on your smartphone.

The chair that offers this type of control is the most advanced model, not only due to its full range of features but also due to its control options. The chair's operation can be controlled via an app with proprietary software.

INTEGRATED CONTROL PANEL

Basic functions in more technologically advanced recliners can also be controlled via a convenient built-in control panel. In some models, the control panel is located in the right armrest, while in others it's located above the air cushions that massage the forearms. This provides a convenient way to change basic settings or quickly turn the recliner on/off. Depending on the model, you can adjust the position of the backrest or footrest, turn on the heating, increase or decrease the massage intensity, or activate voice control.

CONTROL BY VOICE COMMANDS

Finally, we are moving away from all types of controllers.

Some of the chairs also offer a function for using specific voice commands.

This makes it much easier to control – you don't have to take your hands out from between the massage air cushions to use the controller and change the settings.

This type of control can be found in the armchairs.

As mentioned above, this function can be activated by pressing a button on the built-in control panel or by saying "Hi Alice." Once you hear the response "I'm here," you can begin giving commands in English. For details on voice commands, please refer to the respective chair manuals or the back of the controller.

So, if you're looking for an electric massage chair with a dedicated controller, then... any chair will fit the bill.

And which control method is best? As always, it depends on the user's preferences. The easiest way is to visit one of our showrooms and try it out. Come by!