Galley cart storage system and method of use

Abstract

A mobile platform galley cart storage and retrieval system includes a plurality of joined walls defining a galley area. A plurality of mobile carts are stored in the galley area, including at least a first side-by-side subgroup of carts and a second-side-by-side subgroup-of carts positioned above the first subgroup. An optional third subgroup is positioned above the second subgroup. An automatic transfer system lifts and horizontally transfers carts to predetermined storage locations on racks supporting each elevated subgroup of carts. The carts are stored in either randomly accessible locations or in first-in/last-out locations.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates in general to mobile platform service item storage and handling and more specifically to an aircraft galley cart storage and retrieval system and method of use. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Mobile passenger carrying platforms, such as aircraft, ships, trains, buses, etc. often provide food or beverages for passengers. Food and beverages are commonly heated or otherwise prepared for distribution by personnel within galley areas. Food and beverages prepared in the galley are frequently transported to individual passenger seating areas using galley carts. Galley carts in many industries including the aircraft industry have been standardized in size. For example, an exemplary aircraft galley cart is approximately 34 inches high, approximately 12 inches wide and approximately 40.5 inches deep and can weigh approximately 250 pounds. Galley carts are therefore provided with wheels to provide mobility for the carts. For exten...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] According to still yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a galley cart storage and retrieval system for a mobile platform includes a first row of galley carts. A second row of galley carts is positioned above the first row. A third row of galley carts is positioned both approximately level with and in front of the first row. Each of the galley carts of the first, second and third rows are arranged in a side-by-side configuration of adjacent carts within each of the rows. An automated rotation mechanism is operable to simultaneously rotate both the first row and the second row of galley carts. Rotation of the first row and the second row of galley carts operably positions a desired one of the first row and the second row of galley carts for removal through an end cart removal cavity of the third row.

Problems solved by technology

It is undesirable to significantly expand galley “footprint” size to accommodate more floor-area carts because this conflicts with the need to maximize the number of passenger seats.

For the same reasons, it is undesirable to increase the number of galleys.

Additional galley cart storage has been alternatively provided in lower levels of the aircraft, but this reduces available stowage space for cargo in the lower level.

Because galley cart weight can often reach 250 pounds, it is impractical for personnel to manually manipulate or lift carts to any significant height.

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