Aircraft Crew Breathing Mask Control Assembly with Emergency Lock
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft crew member breathing masks face challenges in accurately selecting the 'EMERGENCY' mode due to asymmetry and side markings, leading to potential accidental selection of the 'NORMAL' mode during emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A locking-unlocking device is integrated into the control unit to prevent the rotation of the mode-selection knob from the 'NORMAL' to 'EMERGENCY' mode, requiring a deliberate action by the user to select the 'EMERGENCY' mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the mode-selection knob is made asymmetrical with side markings to allow distinction between modes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because users may still accidentally select the wrong mode during emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a locking mechanism that pre-prevents accidental selection of the NORMAL mode. The locking member is positioned to block the rotation path from EMERGENCY to NORMAL mode, and must be deliberately moved to an unlocking position before the mode selector can be rotated. This pre-emptive blocking action counteracts the potential harmful action of accidental mode selection, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Productivity
If the mode-selection knob allows free rotation between positions for quick access, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of accidental mode changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the locking mechanism movable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The locking member can be deliberately moved by the user to the unlocking position, allowing free rotation of the mode selector when needed. This dynamic adjustment of the locking state enables the system to switch between restricted (safe) and unrestricted (responsive) modes, resolving the contradiction between response speed and mode selection accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit for an aircraft crew member's breathing mask, includes a support, a mode-selection knob pivotally mounted on a holder between at least a first position, a second position and a third position. A controller supplies a breathing cavity in three modes of operation depending on the position of the mode-selection knob. A locking/unlocking system includes an operating member moveable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The locking position blocks the rotation of the mode-selection knob from the second position to the third position, and the unlocking position allows rotation of the mode-selection knob from the second position to the third position.