Aircraft Pivot Bin Spring Assist for Easier Loaded-Bin Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft storage bin systems require high hand force to close pivoting overhead bins, and electro-mechanical lift assist solutions are expensive to produce and certify.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical lift assist system that activates a spring-based assist mechanism when a predetermined weight threshold is exceeded, allowing for easier closure of the bin and automatic opening when empty, using a soft stop assembly with a trigger spring and damper to manage load activation and deactivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electro-mechanical lift assist with sensors and programming algorithms is used, then hand force required for closing bins is reduced, but production and certification costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electro-mechanical lift assist systems with sensors and programming algorithms with a purely mechanical lift assist system using springs and cam mechanisms. The mechanical system activates automatically based on bin position and load weight, eliminating the need for expensive electronic components, sensors, and programming while reducing hand force required for closing bins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as springs, cams, and linkages instead of costly electro-mechanical systems. These mechanical elements are easier to manufacture and certify, providing cost-effective lift assist functionality without requiring complex electronic control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces user effort in closing loaded bins while allowing complete opening of empty bins, providing a cost-effective and certified solution for reducing hand force required for bin operation.
Implementation Method 1
The trigger spring is compressed to a predetermined level when the bucket is in the intermediate position and the weight in the bucket exceeds the predetermined weight threshold
Implementation Method 2
the soft stop assembly includes a damper and the damper extends through the trigger spring
Implementation Method 3
The lift assist spring is positioned to engage the clevis assembly and the lift assist unit provides assistance as the bucket is pivoting from the open position to the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A method of pivoting an aircraft storage bin that includes a bucket that pivots with respect to an upper housing. The method includes pivoting the bucket from a closed position to an intermediate position and placing weight that exceeds a predetermined weight threshold in the bucket, thereby causing the bucket to move to an open position. Movement of the bucket to the open position causes a lift assist unit to activate. A first end of the lift assist unit is connected to the bucket and a second end of the lift assist unit is connected to the upper housing. The method also includes pivoting the bucket from the open position to the closed position. The lift assist unit provides assistance as the bucket is pivoting from the open position to the closed position.