Aircraft Cabin Divider Element with Deformable Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing divider elements in aircraft cabins, such as curtains, are cumbersome and time-consuming to handle when transitioning between expanded and collapsed states, and they do not allow cabin crew a clear view during takeoff and landing.
Innovation Solution
A divider element with a frame member that can deform from a closed ring shape in an expanded state to a collapsed state, minimizing obstruction, and a flexible sheet member that can be easily adjusted to allow or block views, with optional magnet elements and shape memory materials for stabilization and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If curtains are used as separation elements, then visual separation between sections is achieved, but handling and shifting between expanded and retracted positions becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The divider element employs a dynamic frame structure that can transform between expanded and collapsed states through mechanical deformation. The frame includes movable connections allowing it to change configuration easily, enabling quick transition between screening and non-screening positions without complex manual handling of curtains
Solution Approach 2:
The frame member changes its geometric parameters by deforming from an expanded configuration (with large enclosed area) to a collapsed configuration (with minimal enclosed area). This parameter change allows the divider to switch between blocking and allowing views efficiently, replacing the need for time-consuming curtain repositioning
2Strength
If rigid guide rails are used for curtains, then structural stability is provided, but load from passengers grasping the rail is completely transferred to the support
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member is constructed from flexible material that can deform under load rather than remaining rigid. When a passenger grasps the frame, it bends elastically, absorbing the force and preventing complete load transfer to the ceiling support, while still providing structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible frame member acts as a cushioning element that anticipates and absorbs potential loads from passengers. By being inherently flexible, it prevents excessive force transmission to the support structure before the load is fully applied, protecting the ceiling mounting
3Strength
If the frame member is made rigid, then structural integrity is maintained, but the area enclosed cannot be reduced in the collapsed state
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member incorporates dynamic characteristics allowing it to deform and change shape. It transitions from a rigid-appearing expanded state to a collapsed state where the enclosed area is minimized, while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to support its function as a divider
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the frame member are changed by deforming its shape. The frame can assume different configurations with varying enclosed areas, allowing it to provide effective screening when expanded and minimal obstruction when collapsed, all while maintaining structural soundness
4Ease of operation
If the frame member deforms to minimize enclosed area, then obstruction to cabin crew view is reduced, but handling complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member is divided into multiple sections connected by movable joints, allowing it to deform in a controlled manner. This segmentation enables the frame to collapse into a compact configuration with minimal enclosed area, improving cabin crew visibility while managing the complexity through modular design
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
Facilitates easy handling and reduces obstruction in the collapsed state, ensuring cabin crew visibility during critical phases of flight while maintaining effective screening in the expanded state, with reduced load transfer and potential for weight savings.
Implementation Method 1
the frame member may assume an expanded state and a collapsed state... when the frame member is in the expanded state, it extends in a plane and defines a first area... in the collapsed state the frame member defines a second area which is smaller than the first area
Implementation Method 2
when the frame member is formed of a resilient material rather than being rigid, a load applied by a passenger to an end of the frame member remote from the support... cannot exceed critical thresholds... due to the elasticity of the frame member, it is not possible that a load corresponding to the entire weight of a passenger is transferred to the support
Data Source
AI summary
A divider element for an aircraft cabin is disclosed including a frame member forming a closed ring wherein the frame member may assume an expanded state and a collapsed state, wherein in the expanded state the frame member extends in a plane and defines a first area which is surrounded by the frame member and wherein in the collapsed state the frame member defines a second area which is surrounded by the frame member, the second area being smaller than the first area, and a flexible sheet member which is fixed to the frame member and dimensioned such that when the frame member is in the expanded state, it extends over the area defined by the frame member.