Expandable cargo storage space, transport vehicle section, means of transport and method for operating a cargo storage space, a transport vehicle section or a means of transport

Abstract

Expandable cargo storage space (10) for a means of transport, comprising: a first storage wall (12) and a second storage wall (14) opposite the first storage wall (12); and a plurality of foldable walls arranged between the first and second storage walls (12, 14), each of the plurality of foldable walls being foldable between a first position in which the respective foldable wall is arranged substantially parallel to the second storage wall (14) and a second position in which the foldable wall is arranged substantially perpendicular to the second storage wall (14), wherein the cargo storage space (10) is in a first operating state in which it encloses a first volume when each of the foldable walls is arranged in its first position, and the cargo storage space (10) is in a second operating state in which it encloses a second volume larger than the first volume.when each of the foldable walls is in its second position, and wherein the cargo storage space (10) further comprises at least one door (20, 70) to provide access to the interior of the cargo storage space (10), characterized in that a door is arranged in the first storage wall (12) and / or in the second storage wall (14).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an expandable cargo storage space, a means of transport section with the expandable cargo storage space, a means of transport with the means of transport section or the expandable cargo storage space and a method for operating such an expandable cargo storage space, a means of transport section or a means of transport.

[0002] Modern modes of transportation such as airplanes or trains may be configured to carry cargo and passengers at the same time. Therefore, the space inside the vehicle that is available for transportation is typically divided into a passenger compartment and a freight / cargo space. For example, in prior art aircraft with two decks (see e.g. document EP 0 681 956 A1) the upper deck typically forms a passenger compartment in which the passengers are seated, whereas cargo is transported on the lower deck (i.e. the main deck). . The cargo, e.g. B. the luggage of passengers on board the aircraft, can be placed directly in the hold of the aircraft or in additional containers or pallets that can be loaded with cargo before it is loaded on the aircraft. Such an additional container is z. B. described in document DE 10 2007 062 873 A1.

[0003] After the means of transport, e.g. B. the passenger plane has reached its destination, the transported passengers leave the plane and finally the cargo is unloaded at the gate. The aircraft can then be serviced and prepared for the subsequent flight by the ground staff and / or flight attendants, for example the seating configuration of the passenger cabin being able to be adjusted. The time during which the aircraft must remain parked at the gate is called turnaround time. Typically, it begins when the aircraft picks up the parking chocks and ends when they are removed. Since the direct operating costs of the aircraft are generally proportional to the turnaround time, it is desirable to keep them as short as possible.

[0004] The present invention is concerned with the task of providing a cargo stowage space that enables a more cost-effective and flexible operation of a means of transport. Furthermore, the invention is concerned with the task of providing a section of a means of transport with such a cargo stowage space and a means of transport with the section of the means of transport and / or the cargo stowage space. In addition, the invention deals with a method for operating the cargo storage space in this way.

[0005] This object is achieved by an expandable cargo storage space having the features of claim 1, a means of transport section according to claim 13, a means of transport according to claim 14 and a method for operating a cargo storage space according to claim 15.

[0006] The expandable cargo hold (i.e., cargo hold) is provided for a means of transport and includes a first hold wall and a second hold wall opposite the first hold wall, and a plurality of foldable walls disposed between the first and second hold walls. Each of the plurality of foldable walls is foldable between a first position in which the respective foldable wall is disposed substantially parallel to the second storage wall and a second position in which the foldable wall is disposed substantially perpendicular to the second storage wall. In addition, each foldable wall can also be arranged parallel to the first storage space wall. Optionally, the first and second stowage walls may be parallel to each other. The first storage space wall and the second storage space wall can delimit the cargo storage space in a first direction or in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0007] Arranged essentially parallel means in the present context that the foldable walls can be arranged at a slight angle relative to the first / second storage space wall. An angle between the main surface of the foldable wall and the second storage space wall in this configuration can be, for example, less than 15 degrees, preferably less than 10 or 5 degrees. It is conceivable that the angle between the main surface of the foldable wall and the second storage space wall is 0 degrees.

[0008] When each of the collapsible walls is disposed in its first position, the cargo hold is in a first operational condition and encloses a first volume. For example, the first volume may be less than 5% greater than the total volume of the collapsible walls, i.e. so small that a person cannot fit into the cargo hold. Alternatively, the first volume can be less than 10 m 3 be, preferably less than 5 m 3 . On the other hand, when each of the collapsible walls is in its second position, the cargo hold is in a second operational condition and includes a second volume that is greater than the first volume. The second volume can be at least n times (n=2,3,...) as large as the first volume, preferably twice as large, most preferably three times as large.

[0009] In addition, it is conceivable that the cargo storage space is in a third intermediate operating state in which a first part of the plurality of foldable walls is arranged in its second position, whereas the remaining foldable walls are in their first position. In this third intermediate operating state, the cargo space includes a third volume that is larger than the first volume and smaller than the second volume. The third volume can e.g. B. be twice as large as the first volume. Optionally, the third volume can be two thirds of the second volume.

[0010] In each of the first, second and third operating states, the cargo storage space forms an enclosure for cargo / freight for storage therein. This enclosure can be sealed against its surroundings in a liquid-tight manner. In this case, fire, liquids, gases, smoke and / or suppressants can only escape from the cargo hold in non-hazardous quantities or can be completely prevented from escaping from the cargo hold. In other words, the cargo storage space can be hermetically sealed. The hermetic sealing can be achieved, for example, by membrane elements provided at hinge joints between the edges of the foldable walls and / or by seals at the edges of the foldable walls. Accordingly, the cargo hold can be constructed as a so-called full class C cargo hold. Alternatively, the cargo hold may be classified as a Class F cargo hold. In addition, the cargo storage space can be equipped with a smoke and / or fire alarm system. A fire suppression or fire suppression system may be provided in the cargo hold so that if a fire breaks out in the cargo hold, it can be effectively fought within the cargo hold without outside access.

[0011] Additionally, the cargo storage space may include a first expandable section that includes at least a portion of the plurality of collapsible walls. The first expandable section may include one or more support sections positioned between the first cargo compartment wall and the second cargo compartment wall to define one or more cargo spaces adjacent the support sections when the cargo compartment is in its second operational configuration. Here the supporting section or sections does not have to be arranged at a distance from the first / second storage space wall. Instead, it is conceivable that a supporting section is formed on the first / second storage space wall, optionally integrated with it. In other words, the supporting portion may form part of or be part of the first / second stowage wall. At one or more of the supporting sections, e.g. A net is fixed, e.g. to each of the supporting portions, which net is configured to secure items of cargo (e.g. luggage) in the case of bulk loading. The net runs parallel to the first and to the second storage space wall. Accordingly, the net is arranged to secure the cargo items to the appropriate hold into which each item was loaded.

[0012] One or more of the plurality of collapsible panels may be associated with, particularly attached to and supported by, a supporting portion. Furthermore, it is conceivable that at least one of the supporting sections is formed as a frame that runs substantially parallel to any one of the first and the second storage space wall. The supporting portion may additionally extend in the first or second direction such that one or more of the plurality of foldable panels associated with the supporting portions are at least partially, preferably entirely, located inside the supporting portion when the respective foldable panel is in its first position, in which it runs parallel to the first / second storage compartment wall. Optionally, the supporting portion or frame may have substantially the same contour as the first and / or second stowage wall in a plane parallel to the first or second stowage wall.

[0013] A first supporting portion may be located on and integrally formed with the first stowage wall, a second supporting portion may be between, e.g. B. may be located centrally between the first and second stowage walls and a third supporting portion may be located on and integrally formed with the second stowage wall. When the cargo storage space is in its second operational condition, a first cargo space may be defined between the first support portion and the second support portion, and a second cargo space may be defined between the second support portion and the third support portion. In this case, the second supporting portion is adapted to connect the first cargo space and the second cargo space to each other. In general, it is conceivable that each supporting portion of the cargo hold is adapted to connect two holds together.

[0014] When the cargo storage space is in its third intermediate operating condition, the second support portion may be adjacent the third support portion and the first support portion may be spaced apart from the second and third support portions. Accordingly, only the first of the first and the second loading space, ie a subset of the total quantity of formable loading spaces, is formed in this state. Furthermore, the first, second, and third supporting portions are juxtaposed when the cargo hold is in its first operational state, and neither the first hold nor the second hold is formed.

[0015] In one embodiment, a first foldable wall of the plurality of foldable walls includes a first section and a second section. The first section of the first foldable wall can be pivotally coupled to the second section of the first foldable wall so that it is foldable relative to the second section about a first axis. Additionally, the first portion of the first foldable wall may be further pivotally coupled to a first of the supporting portions so as to be foldable relative to the first supporting portion about a second axis parallel to the first axis. Preferably, the second portion of the first foldable wall is further pivotally coupled to a second of the supporting portions so that it is foldable about a third axis relative to the second supporting portion. This axis can be parallel to the first axis.

[0016] A second foldable wall of the plurality of foldable walls may include a first section and a second section. The first portion of the second foldable wall may be pivotally coupled to the second portion of the second foldable wall so that it is foldable about a fourth axis relative to the second foldable wall. In this case, the second portion of the second foldable wall is preferably pivotally coupled to a third of the supporting portions so that it is foldable relative to the third supporting portion about a fifth axis that is perpendicular or parallel to the fourth axis.

[0017] Additionally, a third foldable wall of the plurality of foldable walls may be formed in one piece and may be foldable about a sixth axis that is parallel to a fourth of the supporting portions. In one embodiment, the first, the second, and / or the third supporting portion are formed integrally with the first or the second stowage wall. The one piece in which the third foldable wall is formed is preferably flat.

[0018] In the context of the present patent application, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are intended to be enumerative only. Therefore, the cargo hold may separately include any one or more of the components so numbered. For example, the cargo storage space may include the second foldable wall without including the first foldable wall. In particular, the cargo storage space can comprise one or more of the first, second and / or third foldable walls.

[0019] The first, second and / or third foldable wall preferably forms part of the first expandable section. In particular, the first foldable wall preferably forms a portion of the ceiling of the cargo space, the second foldable wall preferably forms a portion of a side wall of the cargo space, and the third foldable wall preferably forms a portion of the floor of the cargo space. However, it is generally conceivable that any of the first, second or third foldable walls form a portion of the top, bottom or one of the side walls of the cargo hold. Collapsible walls that form the floor of the cargo storage space are advantageously provided with an integrated cargo loading system. Collapsible walls forming the ceiling of the cargo hold are optionally formed as a lightweight cover adapted to rupture in the event of a rapid depressurization. Collapsible panels that form the sidewalls of the cargo hold are ruggedly molded to withstand impact from bulk cargo such as air cargo containers or passenger luggage.

[0020] Optionally, the foldable wall forming a portion of the floor of the cargo stowage space when arranged in its second position comprises a hatch or further door adapted to provide a passage through that foldable wall when that foldable wall is in its first position position. Preferably, the first, second and third foldable panels are each constructed to be entirely, e.g. H. with all of its sections, running along a single plane that is perpendicular to the first / second stowage wall when the respective foldable wall is in its second position. In addition, it is further preferred that each of the first, second and third foldable walls connects two adjacent supporting sections to one another at least in this position. In this case each of these walls runs from one of the supporting sections to another (adjacent) supporting section.

[0021] Furthermore, the cargo storage space can have one or more fixed sections. Each of the fixed sections may be configured so that their internal volume (i.e., enclosed volume) is equal when the cargo hold is in its first and second operational states. In this case, the fixed section preferably has the same dimensions when the cargo storage space is in its first operating state and when the cargo storage space is in its second operating state. In other words, the size of the fixed section remains unchanged regardless of the state in which the cargo space is. The fixed portion may be sandwiched between two supporting portions. Advantageously, the fixed portion is arranged adjacent to the first stowage space wall or the second stowage space wall and may comprise the first stowage space wall or the second stowage space wall.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the cargo storage space comprises one or more second expandable sections in addition to the first expandable section. Each of these second expandable sections may include one or more of the features described hereinabove in relation to the first expandable section. In particular, the second expandable section may comprise one or more support sections having the characteristics of any one of the first, second or third support sections and be arranged between the first expandable section and the first or second storage compartment wall. If the cargo storage space includes the fixed section, one or more of the second expandable sections may be located between the fixed section and the first expandable section, or the first expandable section may be located between the fixed section of at least one of the second expandable sections.

[0023] Preferably, one of the second expandable sections is arranged with a fourth supporting section between the third supporting section and the second storage compartment wall. In this case, a fourth supporting section is arranged on the second bin wall and further ones of the plurality of foldable walls formed as the first, second and third foldable walls are provided for connecting the third and fourth supporting sections when the further foldable Walls are in their second position. Advantageously, the fourth supporting portion may include the features of the third supporting portion described hereinabove, wherein the third supporting portion is not formed on the second bin wall in this configuration.

[0024] In another embodiment, the cargo storage includes one or more doors to provide access to the interior of the cargo storage. A first door may be formed in any of the structural portions of the cargo stowage described above, such as in the first stowage wall, in the second stowage wall, in one or more of the foldable walls, or in any of the supporting portions. The first door is preferably arranged in the first storage compartment wall. If the cargo storage space comprises a fixed section, the first door is advantageously arranged in a side wall of a fixed section or in a structural part adapted to delimit the fixed section. Therefore, a person z. B. entering the fixed section to expand the cargo storage space from inside the fixed section from its first mode to its second / third mode. For example, the first door may be arranged in a side wall of the fixed portion that extends in the first direction. The second door may have two parts that pivot in opposite directions, one of the parts being pivotally coupled to the floor of the fixed section and the other of the parts being pivotally coupled to the ceiling of the fixed section. In addition, a second door can be formed in a side wall of the cargo storage space or in one of the first or the second storage space wall. At least one of the first or the second door can be dimensioned in such a way that a freight container can be introduced into the cargo storage space through the respective door. For example, the first door may be designed to allow loading and unloading of cargo into the cargo hold, and the second door may be smaller than the first door and designed to provide human access.

[0025] The cargo storage space may further include a linear guide system configured to linearly guide the first storage space wall in a direction perpendicular to the first storage space wall and / or the second storage space wall in a direction perpendicular to the second storage space wall. For example, the guide system may include one or more guide rails. Each of these rails may be positioned vertically above or below the first bin wall, the second bin wall, the first / second expandable section, and / or the fixed section. Preferably, each of the supporting sections is attached to at least one of the guide rails so that it is linearly guided in the first and / or the second direction. In addition, the cargo storage space can include a cargo loading system. A cargo loading system locking mechanism can optionally be integrated into the cargo storage space.

[0026] A means of transport section, in particular an aircraft section or a train section, comprises the cargo storage space described in detail above and at least one foldable seat. The foldable seat is designed to be shifted between a first state and a second state perpendicular to the first and / or the second storage space wall. In the first state, the seat is essentially unfolded and arranged in a first position. In the second condition, the seat is substantially collapsed and disposed in a second position farther from the first compartment wall than in the first position, with a space into which the cargo compartment is extended when the cargo compartment is in its second operational configuration, away from the seat is released. When the seat is folded, its seat bottom is folded up to face the seat back.

[0027] The cargo storage space can be arranged within a section of the passenger cabin. In this case, the cargo storage space can be formed as a separate unit and / or can be accessible from the cabin through the first and / or second door. Optionally, when the cargo hold comprises a fixed section with the first door in its side wall, the cargo hold may be directly accessible from the outside of the vehicle through the second door. A linear guide system provided in the cabin floor can replace the above linear guide system. If a cargo loading system is provided in the cargo stowage space, the cargo loading system may be attached to the linear guide system provided for loading load into the cabin floor.

[0028] A means of transport includes the means of transport section and / or the cargo storage space. In any case, the cargo storage space can be arranged on any deck of the means of transport. If the means of transport is an aircraft with an upper deck and a main deck, the cargo storage space is preferably arranged on the main deck.

[0029] The transport (transport vehicle portion) can be reconfigured between a situation where the cargo storage space is in its first operating state and a situation where the cargo storage space is in its second operating state within a short time. On an aircraft, reconfiguration can occur during turnaround time, providing more flexibility to adapt the aircraft configuration to an eventual need to carry a larger number of passengers or to carry a larger amount of cargo. Therefore, the expandable cargo storage space enables a reduction in the direct operating costs of the means of transport and at the same time enables a flexible and rapid adjustment of the ratio between the space allocated to passengers and the space allocated to cargo on board the means of transport. In addition, when the cargo storage space is located inside the cabin, its exterior design matches the cabin design.

[0030] A method for operating an above-described cargo storage space, transport means section or transport means comprises steps of displacing the second storage space wall away from the first storage space wall and folding one or more of the foldable walls between a first position in which the respective foldable wall is substantially parallel to the second storage space wall is arranged, and a second position in which the foldable wall is arranged substantially perpendicular to the second storage compartment wall. In the second step, the cargo storage space is modified between a first operating state in which it encloses a first volume and a second operating state in which it encloses a second volume that is larger than the first volume.

[0031] Preferred embodiments of a cargo stowage space and a conveyance section are described in more detail below with reference to the attached schematic drawings, wherein

[0032] figure Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a cargo hold in its second operational condition with each of the foldable walls in their second position;

[0033] figure 2a shows a plan view of the cargo storage space figure 1 with each of the foldable walls in their second position,

[0034] figure 2b shows a side view of the cargo storage space figure 1 with each of the foldable walls in their second position,

[0035] figure 2c shows a front view of the cargo storage space figure 1 with each of the foldable walls in their second position,

[0036] figure 3a bis figure 3t shows a sequence of images illustrating the reconfiguration of the cargo hold from its first operational state with each of the collapsible walls in its first position to its second operational state with each of the collapsible walls in its second position;

[0037] figure Figure 4 shows a perspective view of an alternative cargo hold in its second operational condition with each of the collapsible walls in their second position;

[0038] figure Figure 5 shows a perspective view of another alternative cargo hold in its second operating condition with each of the collapsible walls in their second position;

[0039] figure 6a and figure 6b show perspective views of a means of transport section, showing the cargo storage space in intermediate states between its first operating state and its second operating state,

[0040] figure Figure 7a shows a plan view of a transport means section showing the cargo stowage space in its second operating condition, and

[0041] figure Figure 7b shows a plan view of a transport means section showing the cargo stowage space in its first operating condition.

[0042] An expandable cargo hold 10 for a means of transport is in figure 1, figure 2a bis figure 2c and figure 3a bis figure 3t shown. The means of transport is an airplane, for example. The cargo hold 10 includes a first storage wall 12 and a second storage wall 14 , those of the first storage space wall 12 and a plurality of collapsible panels positioned between the first and second storage compartment panels 12 , 14 are arranged. Each of the plurality of foldable walls is between a first, in figure 3a shown position, in which the respective foldable wall is substantially parallel to the second storage space wall 14 is arranged, and a second, in figure 1, figure 2a bis figure 2c and figure 3r to figure 3t shown position is foldable, in which the foldable wall is substantially perpendicular to the second storage space wall 14 is arranged. When all of the collapsible walls are in their first position, the cargo hold is located 10 is in a first operating condition and encloses a first volume and when all of the collapsible walls are placed in their second position, the cargo storage space is located 10in a second operating condition and enclosing a second volume approximately three times the first volume. In the second operating state is the cargo storage space 10 adapted to hold, for example, up to three so-called LD3 air cargo containers, and in this example has a height of about 1.7 meters, a width of about 4.15 meters and a length of about 4.83 meters. In addition, in figure 3j a third intermediate operating state of the cargo storage space 10 shown with a portion of the foldable panels in their second position and the remainder of the foldable panels in their first position. In this operating state, the cargo storage space closes 10 a third volume approximately twice the size of the first volume.

[0043] Furthermore, the cargo storage space 10 a fixed section 16 and a first expandable section 18 on that between the pinned section 16 and a second expandable section 30 is arranged. The fixed section 16 comprises the first storage space wall 12 and has the first volume when the cargo storage space 10 is in its first or second operating state or in its third intermediate operating state. A first door 20 is in a side panel of the cargo hold 10 formed, particularly in the side wall of the fixed portion 16 , perpendicular to the first and second storage compartment wall 12 , 14 runs and access to the interior of the cargo hold 10 offers. The door 20 can be the cargo door of the plane. The door 20 includes an upper section 22 and a lower section 24 (please refer figure 3b), each pivoting about an associated axis lying in the plane of the ceiling 26 or at the level of the ground 28 of the cargo storage space 10 runs. The lower section 24 runs at an angle relative to the top section 22 , when the first door 20 closed is. Alternatively, the door 20 be made of one piece instead of two pieces (i.e., instead of the top and bottom sections 22 , 24 ).

[0044] Supporting Sections 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 are between the first storage compartment wall 12 and the second storage space wall 14 arranged to define cargo spaces adjacent the supporting portions when the cargo hold is in its second operational condition. At each of the supporting sections 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 is a network (see figure 6b showing such a net in the supporting part 36 illustrated) wherein the net is configured to secure items of cargo (e.g., luggage) in the case of bulk loading. The net runs parallel to the first and to the second storage space wall 12 , 14 .

[0045] The fixed section 16 borders a first supporting section 32 , which integrates with the first storage wall 12 is formed, and a second supporting portion 34 , which is on the border of the fixed section 16 with the first expandable section 18 is arranged. A third supporting section 36 forms part of the first expandable section 18 and is to one side of the first expandable section 18 opposite the second supporting section 34 arranged. A fourth supporting section 38 forms part of the second extensible section 30 and is integrated with the second storage wall 14 educated. Therefore, the first, second, third, and fourth define supporting sections 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 together three holds, supported by the second and third sections 34 , 36 are connected to each other.

[0046] The third and fourth supporting sections 36 , 38 carry some of the majority of foldable walls. A first foldable wall 42, which forms part of these foldable walls, comprises a first section 44 and a second section 46 . The first paragraph 44 the first collapsible wall 42 is pivotable to the second section 46 the first collapsible wall 42 coupled so that it is relative to the second section 46 is foldable about a first axis A1. In addition, the first section 44 the first collapsible wall 42 pivoted to the second supporting section 34 coupled so that it is relative to the second supporting portion 46 is foldable about a second axis A2 parallel to the first axis A1. The second section 46 the first collapsible wall 42 is also pivotable to the third supporting portion 36 coupled so that it is relative to the third supporting section 36 is foldable about a third axis A3 parallel to the first and second axis A1, A2. The first foldable wall 42 forms part of the ceiling 26 of the cargo storage space 10 .

[0047] A second foldable wall 52 the plurality of foldable walls includes a first portion 54 and a second section 56 . The first paragraph 54 the second collapsible wall 52 is pivotable to the second section 56 the second collapsible wall 52 coupled so that it is relative to the second collapsible wall 52 is foldable about a fourth axis A4. The second section 56 the second collapsible wall 52 is pivoted to the third supporting section 36 coupled so that it is relative to the third supporting section 36 is foldable about a fifth axis A5 perpendicular to the fourth axis A4. The second foldable wall 52 forms part of the side wall of the cargo storage space 10 .

[0048] A third collapsible wall 62 (please refer figure 3d and figure 3e) the plurality of foldable walls is formed in one flat piece and is foldable about a sixth axis A6 which is along the third supporting portion 36 runs. The sixth axis is parallel to axes A1, A2 and A3 and perpendicular to axes A4 and A5. The third collapsible wall 62 forms part of the floor 28 of the cargo storage space 10 and includes a hatch or other door (not shown) adapted to allow a human to pass through the third collapsible wall 62 to stride when the third collapsible wall 62 is in its first position. Such a hatch or further door can also be in any of the first or second foldable walls 42 , 52 are formed.

[0049] In alternate cargo holds 10 forms the third foldable wall 62 part of the ceiling or sidewall of the cargo hold 10 , in particular the ceiling or side wall of the respective cargo storage space. Accordingly, the first section 44 and the second section 46 the first collapsible wall 42 or the first section 54 and the second section 56 the second collapsible wall 52 each to be combined in a single part, therefore like the third foldable wall 62 are formed. Conversely, the bottom of the cargo compartment and / or any of the side walls of the cargo compartment can be formed to have the features of the first collapsible wall 42 or the second collapsible wall 52 include, i.e. in two sections.

[0050] A linear guidance system comprises six substantially identical guide rails 66 , to which the first, second, third and fourth supporting sections, respectively 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 are mounted so as to be displaceable along a first direction X, which is perpendicular to the first and second stowage walls and is perpendicular to all of the axes A1, A2, A3 and A5. Therefore, major loads on the body of the cargo hold 10 act through the supporting portions 32 , 34 , 36 , 38transferred to the linear guide system. The linear guide system is connected to a structural part of the means of transport. Optionally, another (smaller) part of the loads can be carried over the floor of the cargo storage space 10 be transferred to the structural part of the means of transport.

[0051] In an alternative is or are one or more of the supporting sections, in particular the first and the third supporting section 32 , 34 not displaceable, but fixed and optionally not on the guide rails 66 fastened. The guide rails 66 run parallel to the fourth axis A4. Two of the guide rails 66 are vertically above and four of the guide rails 66 are vertically below the cargo hold 10 arranged. In addition is a second door 70 centrally in the second storage space wall 14 educated.

[0052] figure 3a bis figure 3t illustrate in a sequence of images how the cargo storage space is unfolded, i. i.e., from its first operating state (in figure 3a shown) into its second operating state (in figure 3r, figure 3s and figure 3t shown) is reconfigured. First the first door 20 by pivoting the upper section 22 up and pivoting the lower section 24 opened downward and the operator enters the fixed section 16 ( figure 3b). Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cargo storage space 10 through the second door 70 entered to start the unfolding process. Additionally, additional openings may be provided in any of the foldable walls, the openings being adapted to allow the operator to step through the third and fourth supporting parts 36 , 38 to kick when the cargo hold 10 is in its first position (i.e., its collapsed position).

[0053] Thereafter, the operator shifts the third and fourth supporting sections 36 , 38 and any collapsible walls associated with the supporting sections 36 , 38 are associated, from the fixed section 16 away in the first direction X (see the big arrow in figure 3c). That's why the first foldable wall moves 42 so from their first, in figure 3b to its second position shown in figure 3c shown position that their sections 44 , 46 together form a plane of the ceiling of the hold adjacent to the hold of the fixed section. After that, the third foldable wall 62 pivoted from its first (vertical) position down about the axis A6 to its second (horizontal) position such that it forms the bottom of the respective hold and the lower part of the third supporting section 36 with the lower part of the second supporting section 34 connects (see figure 3d up figure 3f).

[0054] After that, the second foldable wall 52 brought from its first position to its second position by pivoting its first section 54 along with their second section 56 about 90 degrees about the fifth axis A5 and pivoting its first section 54 downward. Here is the angle at which the first section 54 further pivoted about axis A4 greater than 90 degrees, for example about 135 degrees. In its second position is the first section 54 relative to any of the first and third foldable walls 42 , 62 and relative to the second section 56 the second collapsible wall 52 inclined (see figure 3g to figure 3j). On the other side of the cargo hold 10 (in figure 3g to figure 3j the rearmost side) is another second foldable wall 53 symmetrical to the second foldable wall 52 folded. An intermediate operating state was therefore reached in which the cargo volume, that of the cargo storage space 10 provided is twice the cargo volume provided by the fixed section 16provided. The cargo storage space is in this intermediate operating state 10 hermetically sealed once the first door 20 closed is.

[0055] in the in figure 3k to figure 3r shown following steps are those referred to here above figure 3c bis figure 3j essentially repeats the steps described, with the only difference being an additional hold between the third supporting section 36 and the fourth supporting section 38 rather than between the second supporting section 34 and the third supporting section 36 is expanded.

[0056] In particular, the operator displaces the fourth supporting section 38 and any associated foldable doors away from the third supporting section 36 in the first direction X (see the big arrow in figure 3k). This causes the fourth foldable wall to move 142 so from their first position to their second, in figure 3l position shown that its first and second section 144 , 146 together one level of the ceiling of another cargo space next to the second storage space wall 14 form. After that, the sixth foldable wall 162 pivoted downwards from their first (vertical) positions about an axis A16 parallel to the sixth axis A6 to their second (horizontal) position to form the floor of the respective hold (see figure 3l to figure 3n). After that, the fifth foldable wall 152 brought from its first position to its second position by pivoting its first section 154 along with their second section 156 by about 90 degrees about an axis parallel to the fifth axis A5 and by pivoting its first section 154 downward. Here is the angle at which the first section 154 about the axis A4 is greater than 90 degrees, for example it is approximately 135 degrees. In its second position is the first section 154 relative to any of the fourth and sixth foldable walls 142 , 162 and relative to the second section 156 the fifth foldable wall 152 inclined (see figure 3o to figure 3r). On the other side of the cargo hold 10 (in figure 3o to figure 3r the rearmost side) is another foldable wall (not shown) symmetrical to the fifth foldable wall 152 folded. That is why the second operating state was reached, in which the cargo volume, that of the cargo storage space 10 is three times the cargo volume that is enclosed by the fixed section 16 provided. In the second operating state is the cargo storage space 10 hermetically sealed once the first door 20 closed is. The cargo storage space is then through the second door 70 accessible, as in figure 3s and figure 3t shown.

[0057] An alternative cargo storage space 10 is in figure 4 shown. In this cargo hold 10 the second door is missing 70 . Alternatively, it is conceivable that the first door 20 is missing. Otherwise, the structure and function of the alternative cargo storage space are the same 10 the structure and function of the cargo storage space 10 from figure 1.

[0058] Another alternative cargo storage space 10 is in figure 5 shown. In this cargo hold 10 missing the second expandable section 30 . In addition, it is conceivable that the second expandable section 30 by another fixed section 16 replaced. Otherwise, the structure and function of the alternative cargo storage space are the same 10 the structure and function of the cargo storage space 10 from figure 1.

[0059] a in figure 6a, figure 6b, figure 7a and figure 7b shown means of transport section 80 includes another alternative cargo storage space 10 . This cargo hold 10 differs from the cargo hold 10 from figure 1 in that the first and fourth foldable wall 42 , 142form the side walls and pairs of foldable walls (only the bottom pair is shown in these figures) form the floor and ceiling, respectively, of the respective cargo hold. For example, the floor of the holds is covered by a seventh foldable wall 72 formed a first section 73 and a second section 74 includes, wherein the second section 74 like the third collapsible wall 62 is configured except that in its second position it extends only a portion of the distance between the second and third supporting portions 34 , 36 extends. The remaining gap, i. i.e. the remaining part of this distance is covered by the first section 73 filled, which pivots on the second supporting section 34 is fixed and foldable about an axis A20 parallel to axis A6. Similarly, the floor between the third and the fourth supporting section 36 , 38 and the ceilings of the holds in the first and second expandable sections 18 , 30 are formed. Otherwise, the structure and function are the same as the alternative cargo storage space 10 the structure and function of the cargo storage space 10 , the in figure 1 is shown.

[0060] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the means of transport section has any desired number of each of the cargo storage spaces 10 from figure 1 instead of the one, in figure 6a bis figure 7b shown cargo storage space 10 or in addition thereto.

[0061] The transportation section 80 is a forward portion of an aircraft and includes a plurality of substantially similar foldable seats 90 . Each folding seat is adapted, by means of a guide system (not shown) perpendicular to the first and the second storage compartment wall between an in figure 6a and a first state shown in figure 6b to be shifted to the second state shown. In the first state is every seat 90 substantially deployed so that a passenger can sit on it while he / she is on board and arranged in a first position. In the second state is the seat 90 substantially collapsed and disposed in a second position. The second position is farther from the first storage compartment wall 12 removed as the first position. On the other hand, in the second position of the seats, part of the seats is closer to the second storage compartment wall 14 arranged, whereas another part of the seats at the same distance from the second storage compartment wall 4 as arranged in its first position. Furthermore, when the seat is folded, its seat bottom is folded up to face the back of the seat. Therefore, the size of the seat in the second position is smaller in the first direction X than in the first position.

[0062] Accordingly, by folding and shifting the seats from their first position to their second position, a space can be freed up into which the cargo storage space can be expanded when the cargo storage space is in its second operating condition. In view of a constant overall size of the transport means section, the space allocated to the passengers is thereby reduced and the space allocated to the cargo is increased. Conversely, by contracting the cargo storage space, z. B. in its first operating state and unfolding and relocating the seats from their second position to their first position freed the space that was previously occupied by the cargo storage space. Therefore, the space allocated to passengers is increased and the space allocated to cargo is reduced. Accordingly, the aircraft can be flexibly adapted to situational space requirements. QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

[0063] This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Patent Literature Cited

[0064] EP 0681956 A1

[0002] DE 102007062873 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Expandable cargo storage space ( 10 ) for a means of transport, encompassing – a first storage wall ( 12 ) and a second storage wall ( 14 ), which forms the first storage wall ( 12 ) opposite, and – a plurality of folding walls located between the first and second storage wall ( 12 , 14 ) are arranged, each of the plurality of folding walls being positioned between a first position in which the respective folding wall is substantially parallel to the second storage wall ( 14 ) is arranged, and is foldable in a second position in which the foldable wall is essentially perpendicular to the second storage wall ( 14 ) is arranged, where the cargo storage space ( 10 ) is in a first operating state in which it encloses a first volume when each of the folding walls is arranged in its first position, and the cargo storage space ( 10) is in a second operating state in which it encloses a second volume that is larger than the first volume when each of the foldable walls is in its second position. [2] Cargo storage space according to claim 1, further comprising a door ( 20 , 70 ) includes access to the interior of the cargo storage compartment ( 10 ) to offer, with the door in the first storage wall ( 12 ), in the second storage wall ( 14 ) or is arranged in at least one of the plurality of foldable walls. [3] Cargo storage space according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first expandable section ( 18 ) includes, which comprises at least a portion of the majority of foldable walls. [4] Cargo storage space according to claim 3, wherein the first expandable section ( 18 ) one or more supporting sections ( 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 ) includes, which is located between the first storage wall (12 ) and the second storage wall ( 14 ) are arranged so that they have one or more cargo spaces next to the supporting sections ( 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 ) define when the cargo storage space ( 10 ) is in its second operating state. [5] Cargo storage space according to claim 4, wherein each of the supporting sections ( 32 , 34 , 36 , 38 ) is adapted to connect two of the cargo spaces and carries one or more of the majority of folding walls. [6] Cargo storage space according to claim 4 or 5, wherein a first foldable wall ( 42 ) the majority of foldable walls a first section ( 44 ) and a second section ( 46 ) includes, where the first section ( 44 ) the first foldable wall ( 42 ) swivels to the second section ( 46 ) the first foldable wall ( 42) is coupled, so that it is relative to the second section ( 46 ) foldable around a first axis, and where the first section ( 44 ) the first foldable wall ( 42 ) furthermore pivotable to a first of the supporting sections ( 34 ) is coupled so that it is relative to the first supporting section ( 34 ) foldable around a second axis parallel to the first axis, where the second section ( 46 ) the first foldable wall ( 42 ) furthermore pivotable to a second of the supporting sections ( 36 ) is coupled, so that it is relative to the second supporting section ( 36 ) is foldable around a third axis parallel to the first axis. [7] Cargo storage space according to one of claims 4 to 6, including a second foldable wall ( 52 ) the majority of foldable walls a first section ( 54 ) and a second section ( 56 ) includes, where the first section ( 54 ) the second foldable wall ( 52 ) swivels to the second section ( 56 ) the second foldable wall ( 52 ) is coupled so that it is relative to the second foldable wall ( 52 ) foldable around a fourth axis, where the second section ( 56 ) the second foldable wall ( 52 ) pivotably coupled to a third of the supporting sections, so that it is foldable relative to the third supporting section about a fifth axis that is perpendicular or parallel to the fourth axis. [8] Cargo storage space according to one of claims 4 to 7, wherein a third foldable wall ( 62 ) the majority of foldable walls are formed in a flat piece and are foldable about a sixth axis (A6) that runs parallel to a fourth of the supporting sections. [9] Cargo storage space according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first, second and / or third supporting section is integrated with the first or second storage space wall ( 12 , 14 ) is formed. [10] Cargo storage space according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fixed section ( 16 ) includes the first storage wall ( 12 ) or the second storage wall ( 14 ) includes, where the fixed section ( 16 ) has the same dimensions when the cargo space ( 10 ) is in its first operating state and when the cargo storage space ( 10 ) is in its second operating state. [11] Cargo storage space according to claim 10, furthermore one or more expandable sections ( 30 ) comprising, the first expandable section ( 18 ) between the fixed section ( 16 ) and the second expandable sections ( 30) is arranged. [12] Cargo storage space according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a linear guide system for linearly guiding the first storage space wall ( 12 ) in a wall leading to the first storage space ( 12 ) and / or to the second storage wall ( 14 ) perpendicular direction in one direction towards the second storage wall ( 14 ) is laid out in a vertical direction. [13] Transport section ( 80 ), comprehensive – a cargo storage space ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims and – at least one folding seat ( 90 ), which is adapted perpendicular to the first and / or second storage wall ( 12 , 14 ) between a first state in which the seat is unfolded and arranged in a first position, and a second state in which the seat is folded down and in a second position further away from the first storage compartment wall (12 ) is arranged in the first position to create a space into which the cargo storage space ( 10 ) is expanded when the cargo storage space ( 10 ) is in its second operating state, to release. [14] Means of transport that includes the means of transport section ( 80 ) according to claim 12. [15] Method for operating a cargo storage space ( 10 ) according to one of claims 1 to 12, of a transport means section ( 80 ) according to claim 13 or a means of transport according to claim 14, comprising the following steps: – Relocating the second storage wall ( 14 ) away from the first storage wall ( 12 ); – Folding one or more of the folding walls between a first position in which the respective folding wall is essentially parallel to the second storage wall ( 14) is arranged, and a second position in which the folding wall is essentially perpendicular to the second storage wall ( 14 ) is arranged to maximize cargo storage space ( 10 ) to modify between a first operating state in which it includes a first volume and a second operating state in which it includes a second volume that is larger than the first volume.

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