Aircraft Monument Folding Flap for Full Stowage Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft overhead stowage compartments have limited access due to flaps that obstruct the opening, making it difficult for passengers to store and retrieve luggage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part flap mechanism with a hinge system and locking mechanism that allows the flap to fold during opening, providing full access and securing luggage, featuring a piano hinge with integrated locking elements for secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single-piece flap is used to cover the monument opening, then the luggage is secured against falling out, but the access to the opening is limited and it is difficult for passengers to put in and take out luggage
Solution Approach 1:
The flap is divided into multiple segments (first flap segment, second flap segment, third flap segment) connected by hinges, allowing each segment to move independently. This segmentation enables the flap to fold during opening, providing full access to the monument interior while maintaining structural integrity for securing luggage.
2Volume of moving object
If the flap is made foldable to improve access, then less space is needed to open the flap, but the hinge mechanism adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is integrated into the flap structure itself, with hinges positioned at the boundaries between flap segments. The locking elements are embedded within the hinge assemblies, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes additional space requirements while enabling the folding function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the hinge structure, where locking elements are positioned within the hinge assembly to block or unblock the hinge axis. This integration combines two functions (hinging and locking) into a single structural unit, reducing overall complexity compared to separate mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the hinge, then the flap remains securely closed, but the operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism operates automatically based on the flap's position. When the flap is closed, the hinge is automatically locked by the locking elements engaging with the hinge body. When the latch is actuated to open the flap, the hinge automatically unlocks and folds. This self-service operation eliminates the need for manual locking/unlocking actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are pre-positioned within the hinge structure, ready to engage with the hinge axis when the flap is in the closed position. The spring element maintains the locking elements in their locked position until actuated, ensuring the flap is securely locked before opening operations begin.
4Reliability
If multiple locking elements are distributed along the hinge axis, then the hinge is more reliably locked and evenly loaded, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented into multiple locking elements distributed along the hinge axis, with each locking element independently engaging with the hinge body. This segmentation provides redundant locking points and even load distribution while keeping each individual locking element simple in structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a monument for an aircraft having a multi-part flap enabling a folding of the flap partially during opening, and a method.