Aeromedical Module Mount Assembly for Tool-Free Aircraft Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aeromedical ambulance modules are not configured for quick and tool-free installation and removal in aircraft, hindering rapid conversion between executive and EMS configurations.
Innovation Solution
Aeromedical ambulance modules with a mount assembly that allows for tool-free, adjustable mounting to aircraft seat tracks, featuring lock feet and actuators for secure attachment and release, and latches for easy stretcher retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing aeromedical ambulance modules are used, then the module can be mounted in aircraft, but the installation and removal process requires tools and time, hindering rapid conversion between configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The mount assembly incorporates a tool-free quick-release mechanism with latches that can be operated manually without external tools. The latches engage with locking pins automatically when the module is installed and can be released by simple manual operation, enabling the system to serve itself during installation and removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: mount feet for attachment to seat tracks, latches for securing the stretcher, and locking pins for rapid engagement/disengagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, facilitating quick tool-free operation.
2Reliability
If existing aeromedical ambulance modules are used, then the module can be securely mounted, but the mounting system lacks quick-release capability for rapid configuration changes
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static fixed mounting to a dynamic quick-release system. The latches and locking pins are designed to move between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the module to be securely mounted when needed and rapidly released when configuration changes are required, thus achieving both reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pins act as intermediaries between the mount feet and the aircraft seat tracks. These pins can be quickly inserted or removed to establish or break the connection, providing a mechanical mediator that enables rapid attachment and detachment while maintaining secure mounting when engaged.
3Ease of operation
If a tool-free mounting system is implemented, then installation and removal become rapid and easy, but the system complexity increases with additional components like latches and actuators
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into integrated components. The latches serve both to secure the stretcher to the module and to actuate the locking pins for mounting. The mount feet combine attachment functionality with quick-release capability. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining tool-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latches are designed with multi-functionality: they secure the stretcher to the module base, simultaneously actuate the locking pins for aircraft seat track attachment, and can be operated manually without tools. This universal design reduces overall system complexity by having single components perform multiple functions.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides aeromedical ambulance equipment. In some embodiments, the equipment includes a module base comprising a mount assembly having an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. The mount assembly preferably can be adjusted between the unlocked and locked configurations by a tool-free operation. In addition, certain embodiments provide a module base having an advantageous system for releasably locking a stretcher onto the module base.