Aircraft Side Console Articulated Single-Piece Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of side consoles in aircraft cockpits is lengthy and complex due to the numerous components required, which complicates the mounting process and increases time and effort.
Innovation Solution
A side console design utilizing two single-piece components that are articulated relative to each other, allowing them to be folded for easier transportation and assembly, reducing the number of components and simplifying the installation process by unfolding into mutually perpendicular planes for mounting and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If numerous components are used to form the side console structure, then the structural integrity and functionality are improved, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components into two single-piece components (first and second single-piece components) that form the mounting structure. Each single-piece component integrates multiple functions and structural elements that would traditionally require separate parts, thereby reducing the total number of components while maintaining structural integrity and reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The side console structure is segmented into two main single-piece components that are articulated relative to each other. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and positioned, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining the overall structural integrity through the articulation connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous components are used to form the side console structure, then the mounting functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple mounting functions into the two single-piece components. Each component is designed to perform multiple functions (structural support, equipment mounting, storage) that would traditionally require separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining mounting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-piece components are designed as multi-functional elements that serve multiple purposes: providing structural support, enabling equipment mounting, creating storage spaces, and facilitating articulation movement. This universality reduces the number of specialized components needed while maintaining all necessary mounting functionalities.
3Strength
If rigid connections of the insetting type are used for fixing points, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single-piece components are designed with pre-formed articulation connections and mounting features that are integrated during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows the components to be installed as complete units rather than requiring on-site assembly of multiple separate parts, thereby maintaining mechanical strength while significantly improving installation ease.
4Ease of operation
If the components are folded for transportation, then the ease of transportation is improved, but the structural stability during installation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation connection between the first and second single-piece components enables dynamic configuration: the components can be folded together for compact transportation and storage, then unfolded and positioned in the required configuration during installation. The articulation mechanism maintains structural stability in both folded and unfolded states, accommodating both transportation and installation requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A side console for an aircraft cockpit includes a structure for mounting of an item of aircraft equipment and a complementary structure. The mounting structure and the complementary structure are formed of single-piece components articulated about an axis of articulation between a storage position in which the single-piece components are more or less folded against one another, and a position of installation in which the single-piece components extend respectively in substantially mutually perpendicular planes.