top of page
Search

10+ Components of Swivel Chair Structure - Usage & Troubleshooting

Working on high-quality swivel chairs brings a comfortable feeling, ensuring good sitting posture for health, reducing muscle fatigue, and increasing productivity for office workers. Choosing swivel chairs from well-established brands guarantees product quality, durability, and the best warranty policies. Additionally, understanding about the structure of swivel chairs will help you grasp the principles of operation and the convenient functions of each component. Please follow along in this article by Okamura to understand more clearly!

(*) Note: At Okamura, the warranty period is up to 10 years for structural components (including the chair frame, backrest frame, chair legs, and operational mechanisms including adjustable armrests); 5 years for casters, pistons, adjustment units, and levers; and 2 years for the chair's gas cylinder, surface finishes, mesh and fabric upholstery, seat cushions, and armrest cushions.

Summary of Swivel Chair Structure - Modern and Convenient Office Furniture
Summary of Swivel Chair Structure - Modern and Convenient Office Furniture

1. Casters

The caster system is installed under the base of the swivel chair in various sizes depending on the model. The caster materials are divided into two types: Hard (made from materials like stainless steel, aluminum, PU plastic, etc.) and Soft (made from materials like rubber, PE plastic, PP plastic, etc.). While hard casters allow smooth movement on carpeted floors, soft casters are suitable for tile, stone, wood floors, etc., as they produce less noise.

The functions of swivel chair casters include:

  • Facilitating quick movement to different positions.

  • Reducing the need to lift and carry the chair.

  • Minimizing direct contact force between the chair base and floor surface, reducing noise and preventing floor damage during prolonged use.

Position and Function of Swivel Chair Casters
Position and Function of Swivel Chair Casters

To effectively use swivel chair casters, you should choose caster materials (hard or soft) that are compatible with the type of flooring in your workspace. Chairs with large, sturdy casters made from durable materials enhance product longevity. When moving the chair, you can leverage the table or gently use your foot to gain momentum.

During use, if you encounter issues such as difficulty in smooth sliding or excessive slickness, consider the following troubleshooting methods:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Casters do not move smoothly

Objects such as fabric fibers, lint, etc., are stuck in the casters

Remove these objects from the casters


Use soft casters on carpeted floors

Switch to hard casters or remove the carpet

Casters are too slippery

Use hard casters on tile, stone, wood floors, etc.

Casters are too slippery

2. Legs

The base is the component that connects between the casters and the gas lift cylinder, typically structured in a five-star shape corresponding to the five-wheel axle system. The materials used for chair bases vary depending on the chair, but commonly include chrome-plated steel, high-quality plastics, aluminum alloys, etc. For long-term use, it is advisable to prioritize chairs with bases made from durable materials that are environmentally friendly.

You can consider chair models from the Okamura brand with bases crafted from aluminum alloys or PA-GF (glass fiber reinforced plastic), ensuring durability and meeting the needs of various customer groups.

The functions of the swivel chair legs include:

  • Providing a connection between the casters and the gas lift cylinder.

  • Maintaining balance during rotation and movement.

  • Supporting the upper components and the user's body weight.

Position and Function of legs
Position and Function of legs

In case the legs becomes unstable or has broken, you should resolve it according to the following guidelines:

Issues

Cause

Solution

legs is unstable

The screws are loose and have come out of the chair legs

Check and tighten loose screws using a wrench or screwdriver

legs is broken

The chair legs supports heavy objects or experiences strong impacts

Contact the warranty department for timely repair or replacement

3. Cylinder (Piston)

The cylinder is a cylindrical pneumatic tube that connects between the chair legs and the seat cushion, with an outer shell typically made of aluminum or steel for strong load-bearing capability. The operation principle of the cylinder involves compressing and releasing air, allowing users to adjust the seat height according to their preferences.

The functions of the cylinder include:

  • Providing a connection between the chair legs and the seat cushion.

  • Flexibly adjusting the seat height to suit each individual's body posture.

  • Collaborating with other components for swiveling and movement.

Position and Function of Swivel Chair Cylinder
Position and Function of Swivel Chair Cylinder

To effectively use the swivel chair cylinder, follow these instructions:

  • Increase the chair height: Before sitting down, pull the control lever located on the right side of the seat cushion and release it when the seat reaches the desired height.

  • Decrease the chair height: After sitting down, pull the control lever and use your body weight to lower the seat cushion to the desired height, then release the lever.

During work on a swivel chair, some people may encounter issues where the cylinder cannot adjust the seat height up or down. In such cases, you can refer to the causes and troubleshooting methods below:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Cylinder Cannot Raise

Pull the control lever while sitting in the chair

Pull the control lever after standing up from the chair


Maximum height reached

Consider trying another swivel chair model with suitable height adjustment or adding extra cushioning to the seat

Cylinder Cannot Lower

Pull the control lever while sitting at the edge of the seat cushion

Adjust seating position towards the center of the seat cushion.



Minimum height reached

Consider trying another swivel chair model with suitable height adjustment

4. Seat Cushion

Located above the cylinder is the seat cushion - the area where the body makes contact with the swivel chair. Typically, this component is crafted from high-density polyurethane, which provides good elasticity and a comfortable feeling even during long periods of sitting. In particular, the ergonomic multi-density seat cushion developed by Okamura helps maintain correct posture, reduces pressure on the thighs, and improves blood circulation during work.

The functions of the cushion include:

  • Collaborating with other components to support body weight.

  • Providing a comfortable feeling even during continuous hours of work.

  • With ergonomic chairs, the seat cushion helps maintain a proper sitting posture, which is beneficial for health.

Position and Function of Swivel Chair Seat Cushion
Position and Function of Swivel Chair Seat Cushion

During the use of a swivel chair, it's advisable to sit in the center of the seat cushion to ensure maximum comfort and even distribution of body weight to the cylinder, chair legs, and casters. Particularly, you can adjust the seat depth by pulling the sliding lever located on the left side of the seat cushion forward or backward to maintain an appropriate distance between your back and the edge of the seat, thereby reducing pressure on the back of your knees.

When the seat cushion is dirty or tilted, you should handle it as follows:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Seat cushion is dirty

Dust clinging to the seat cushion

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust


Oil stains on the seat cushion

Use specialized cleaning chemicals to remove stains, wipe with a soft, absorbent cloth soaked in water, and finally dry the seat cushion


Other types of dirt on the seat cushion

Use neutral chemicals or an alkaline solution to clean, wipe with a soft, absorbent cloth soaked in water, and finally dry the seat cushion

Seat cushion is tilted

Loose joints between the seat cushion and other components

Contact the warranty department for timely repair or replacement

5. Lumbar Support System

The lumbar support system is a detachable part typically made of plastic in ergonomic swivel chairs, positioned under the chair's lower back allows the user to adjust this part up or down to suit the lumbar position of the sitter . With a gently curved design that hugs the waist, fitting the user's body shape, the lumbar support system ensures a relaxed and comfortable working posture.

The functions of the lumbar support system include:

  • Reducing pressure on the lower back while sitting.

  • Maintaining the natural curve of the spine.

  • Alleviating lower back pain.

Position and Function of Lumbar Support System
Position and Function of Lumbar Support System

The lumbar support system in Okamura chair products is highly favored and praised for its ease of use. You can adjust the height of this component by moving the mechanical support panel upwards or downwards within a range of approximately 60mm, ensuring it fits snugly with the lower back curve.

If the lumbar support system is shifted or unable to adjust its height, you should handle it according to the following instructions:

Issues

Cause

Solution

The lumbar support system shifts during use

The joint between the lumbar support system and the chair back is loose

Remove and reinstall the lumbar support system

Unable to adjust the height of the lumbar support system

The lumbar support system is damaged

Contact the warranty department for timely repair or replacement


Maximum or minimum height reached

Consider trying another chair model with a more suitable lumbar support system

6. Backrest

The backrest on a swivel chair is located between the lumbar support system and the headrest, allowing you to recline and relax after long hours of stressful work. The tilt of the backrest can usually be adjusted according to the user's needs. You can choose a swivel chair with a mesh backrest for breathability or upholstered in leather for a luxurious and classy look.

The functions of the swivel chair backrest include:

  • Supporting the spine, and reducing fatigue during prolonged work.

  • Decreasing the risk of back pain and shoulder fatigue.

Position and Function of Swivel Chair Backrest
Position and Function of Swivel Chair Backrest

To use the swivel chair backrest, follow these instructions:

  • Adjusting the recline angle of the backrest: Rotate the knob on the left side of the seat cushion to tilt the backrest forward or backward.

  • Locking or unlocking the backrest: Rotate the knob on the left side clockwise once to lock or counterclockwise once and slightly tilt the backrest backward to unlock.

  • Adjusting the recline tension of the backrest: Rotate the lever on the right side of the seat cushion clockwise to increase resistance or counterclockwise to decrease resistance.

Additionally, if you encounter issues while using the backrest, you can refer to the troubleshooting guide in the table below:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Unable to Recline the Backrest


The backrest is currently locked

Rotate the knob on the left side counterclockwise once and gently tilt the backrest backward to unlock it


The recline tension of the backrest is set too high

Rotate the lever on the right side of the seat cushion counterclockwise to decrease the recline tension

Feeling Loose when Reclining

The recline tension of the backrest is set too low

Rotate the lever on the right side of the seat cushion clockwise to increase the recline tension

7. Armrest

An ergonomic office swivel chair is indispensable without sturdy armrests on both sides to support efficient work with paperwork and computers. This component usually has a frame made of plastic or alloy accompanied by a padded plastic, fabric, or leather cover. Premium swivel chairs from Okamura also integrate features such as height adjustment, lowering, left and right rotation, and expansion, or contraction of the armrests.

The functions of the swivel chair armrest include:

  • Convenient support for using a mouse, typing on a keyboard, writing, etc.

  • Supporting the arms, reducing pressure on the neck, shoulders, and back.

  • Providing stable support when sitting down or standing up from the chair.

  • The armrests of premium swivel chair models can be easily adjusted according to work needs.

Position and Function of the Swivel Chair Backrest
Position and Function of the Swivel Chair Backrest

When adjusting the armrests, it's advisable to firmly grip the edge of the armrest to lift and rotate it flexibly. Additionally, this component is not designed to bear body weight, so sitting on the armrest can cause it to break and lead to falling.

If the armrests unfortunately shake or break, you should consider the following solutions:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Armrest is shaking

The screws on the armrest are loose

Use a screwdriver to tighten the loose screws

Broken armrest

Sitting or placing heavy objects on the armrest

Contact the warranty department for timely repair or replacement 

8. Headrest:

The headrest is located at the top of the swivel chair and is only present in certain models, especially those designed for conference rooms or managerial positions. This part is suitable for those who need to rest their heads while working or often experience neck pain. The design and materials used to manufacture this part are similar to the backrest (often mesh or leather).

The functions of the swivel chair headrest include:

  • Supporting and reducing neck pain.

  • Directing the line of sight towards the work desk to maintain concentration for extended periods.

Position and Function of the Swivel Chair Backrest:
Position and Function of the Swivel Chair Backrest:

When using a swivel chair equipped with a headrest, you can adjust its height and tilt to fit the shape of your head, optimizing comfort. If the headrest is tilted or feels uncomfortable, you should follow these instructions:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Headrest Tilted

The joint between the headrest and the chair frame/backrest is loose

Tighten the screws, secure the swivel axis, or apply new adhesive to the joint

Headrest feels stuffy

The headrest covered in leather is less breathable

Switch to a mesh headrest type

9. Adjustment Mechanism (Height, Depth, Tilt, Lock, etc.):

Adjustment components such as levers, knobs, and buttons are typically made from materials like plastic, rubber, or metal alloys, and are distributed throughout swivel chairs, primarily located on the sides of the seat cushion. Each adjustment part serves specific functions such as changing seat height, adjusting backrest depth, reclining angle, backrest lock, and fixing the chair position (depending on the chair model and manufacturer's design).

Position and Function of the Adjustment Mechanism in Swivel Chairs
Position and Function of the Adjustment Mechanism in Swivel Chairs

When using levers, knobs, or rotating buttons on the chair, it's advisable to operate them slowly and carefully, avoiding applying strong force to the adjustment mechanism. However, if these components do not operate smoothly or cannot function properly, you should follow the troubleshooting steps below


Issues

Cause

Solution

Adjustment mechanism not operating smoothly


The adjustment mechanism is obstructed by objects such as paper scraps, fabric fibers...

Remove these objects from the adjustment mechanism.


Adjustment mechanism unable to operate


Levers, knobs, rotating buttons... are damaged or broken due to impact.


Contact the warranty department for timely repair/replacement.


10. Some other components of the swivel chair

In addition to the basic components, the structure of a swivel chair also includes several other parts such as the chair frame, legs, and footrest. To understand more about these components, you can refer to the details below:

10.1. Chair frame

The chair frame is the part that supports the backrest, typically made primarily of sturdy aluminum alloy or plastic. Ergonomic swivel chairs often feature frames designed in a V or Y shape with gentle curves corresponding to the natural curve of the spine, suitable for the needs of many users.

The functions of the swivel chair frame include:

  • Working in conjunction with the backrest to provide comfortable support when leaning back.

  • Bearing weight and enhancing the durability of the product.

Position and Function of the Swivel Chair Frame
Position and Function of the Swivel Chair Frame

Before deciding to purchase an office swivel chair, you should check the safety of the chair frame by observing and directly touching it to ensure that the frame is not scratched or cracked. If you encounter these two issues, you should address them as follows:

Issues

Cause

Solution

Scratched Frame

The metal frame may have collided with various hard objects during use

 Use sandpaper to rub against the frame to blur the scratches


The plastic frame may have collided with various hard objects during use

Polish the frame with a specialized compound to blur the scratches

Cracked Frame

The frame may have been subjected to heavy loads or strong impacts

Contact the warranty department for timely repair or replacement

10.2. Chair Base

Located between the gas cylinder and the seat cushion, the chair base (or seat plate) is typically made of iron, steel, or aluminum, with an exterior powder-coated in black. The structure of the chair base usually includes a frame, a spring mechanism, and a lever for adjusting the seat height or tilting the backrest.

The functions of the chair base include:

  • Providing a connection between the gas cylinder and the seat cushion.

  • Allowing the chair to swivel 180 - 360 degrees.

  • Incorporating various other adjustment mechanisms of the chair (if the design includes a lever).

Position and Function of the Chair Base
Position and Function of the Chair Base

When in use, ensure that the chair base is securely installed with screws to prevent the chair from wobbling or tilting. For chair bases equipped with levers, you can adjust the seat height and tilt by using the horizontal or vertical levers.

If the chair base experiences shaking or the lever for adjustment cannot be used, you can apply the following effective solutions:

Issues

Cause

Solution

The chair base is wobbling 

The screws that secure the chair base are loose

Use a screwdriver to tighten the loose screws.

Unable to use the lever for adjusting the chair base

The lever cannot connect with the gas cylinder or the chair back

Contact the warranty department for timely repair or replacement

Hope the useful information above has helped you understand more about the structure of swivel chairs as well as grasp the functions and detailed usage of each component. If you are looking for a swivel chair to meet your needs for studying, working, or leisure, consider experiencing the premium chair models from the Japanese brand Okamura such as Sylphy, Sabrina, Finora, and more.


bottom of page