Power operated lift chair

A power operated lift chair, comprising:

• a chair assembly;
• a support assembly connected to and configured to provide support for the chair assembly;
• the support assembly having a generally open front portion configured to provide access to the chair assembly;
• and
• a lift assembly connected to the chair assembly and the support assembly;
• the lift assembly configured to provide linear, vertical movement of the chair assembly between a lower position and an upper position;
• wherein the lifting assembly further comprises:
• a generally vertical guide post connected to the horizontal crossbeam;
• a guide bracket connected to the vertical guide post and connected to the chair assembly;
• a lifting rod attached to the support assembly and extending generally parallel to the vertical guide post;
• wherein said lifting rod comprises a worm gear, a screw shaft, a drive screw or other means configured to provide linear, vertical movement of the chair assembly between the lower position and the upper position;
• and
• a locking collar configured to be connected to the lifting rod and the guide bracket.