Tool-Less Aircraft Cargo Bracket System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cargo handling systems for aircraft are complex and time-consuming, making it difficult to quickly load and secure freight containers, particularly ISO and air/surface containers, which are not compatible with existing aircraft systems, resulting in extended aircraft downtime.
Innovation Solution
A cargo handling system featuring bracket members secured to the aircraft's floor with tool-less fastening and elongate guide members that restrain containers laterally, using existing seat tracks for quick installation and minimizing interference with safety netting, along with rollers for easy movement and locking mechanisms for secure transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cargo handling systems are used, then containers can be loaded and secured, but the installation and disassembly process is complex and time-consuming, resulting in extended aircraft downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo handling system is divided into modular components: bracket members that attach to the floor, guide members that provide lateral restraint, and locking mechanisms that can be independently operated. This segmentation allows for rapid assembly and disassembly of individual components without requiring complete system overhaul, thereby reducing aircraft downtime while maintaining securing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket members are pre-configured with attachment features that align with standard aircraft floor structures. The guide members are pre-assembled with locking mechanisms in ready-to-install configurations. This preliminary preparation enables quick installation by simply positioning and locking the pre-assembled modules, eliminating time-consuming on-site assembly operations
2Reliability
If conventional cargo handling systems are used, then containers can be restrained, but the system structure is complex and difficult to assemble quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is segmented into discrete functional units: bracket members for attachment, guide members for lateral restraint, and independent locking mechanisms. Each segment performs a specific function and can be assembled separately, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive restraint capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanisms are designed to transition between locked and unlocked states through simple operational actions. The system evolves from a complex static structure to a dynamic system that can be quickly reconfigured between loaded and empty states, reducing assembly complexity while ensuring reliable restraint when locked
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized air freight containers are used, then containers can be secured, but ISO containers cannot be accommodated, limiting versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo handling system is designed with universal bracket members and guide members that can accommodate multiple container types including ISO containers and air freight containers. The standardized attachment interfaces and adjustable restraint mechanisms enable the same system to securely hold different container configurations, enhancing versatility without compromising securing reliability
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a cargo handling system (1) for loading and securing one or more freight containers (C) in a cargo hold (H) of an aircraft (A). The system (1) comprises: a plurality of bracket members (2) configured to be secured to a base or floor of the cargo hold (H); and a plurality of elongate guide members (5), each of which is mounted on and interconnects a number of the bracket members (2) arranged in a row; wherein each guide member (5) forms a restraint or a stop against lateral movement of a freight container (C) loaded in the cargo hold (H). The bracket members (2) include at least one fastening portion (3) configured for tool-less fast-release engagement and locking with a seat track profile in the base or floor (F) of the cargo hold (H). Furthermore, the bracket members (2) typically extend transversely inwards or inboard of the elongate guide members (5).