Aircraft Side Ledge Table Deployment System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft table deployment mechanisms are prone to self-deployment during turbulence due to non-linear tracks, are cumbersome to operate, and occupy excessive space, while also causing jerky movements and noise.
Innovation Solution
A table deployment mechanism using linear guide channels, torsion springs, and a cam system to ensure smooth deployment and retraction, with a lid actuated to a past open position to unlock the table, and a damper to maintain consistent operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-linear tracks are used in table deployment mechanisms, then the table can be deployed, but the mechanism is prone to self-deployment during turbulence and causes jerky movements and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs linear guide channels with curved cam profiles that guide the table through a smooth arc-shaped deployment path. The cam surface is specifically designed with optimized curvature to ensure continuous, jerk-free motion while maintaining linear guidance constraints, eliminating the instability associated with non-linear tracks
2Reliability
If traditional deployment mechanisms are used, then the table can be deployed, but the mechanism occupies excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The table mechanism is nested within the side ledge console structure, with the guide channels and cam mechanism integrated into the console's internal geometry. The table stows flush within the console volume and deploys along the linear guide channels that are built into the console structure, maximizing space utilization
3Reliability
If traditional deployment mechanisms are used, then the table can be deployed, but the operation is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion spring mechanism provides automatic deployment force, eliminating the need for manual lifting or complex actuation. The user simply needs to release the latch, and the spring-driven cam mechanism automatically guides the table through smooth deployment and retraction, making operation intuitive and effort-free
4Ease of operation
If spring mechanisms are used to assist deployment, then the table can be deployed, but the mechanism is prone to self-deployment during turbulence
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion spring is pre-loaded in a controlled manner during manufacturing, and the cam profile is designed with specific geometric constraints that prevent unintended activation. The linear guide channels provide mechanical constraints that maintain stability during turbulence, allowing the spring assistance to operate only within the intended deployment envelope
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
The mechanism provides a smooth, consistent, and space-efficient deployment of aircraft tables, reducing the risk of self-deployment during turbulence and simplifying user operation.
Implementation Method 1
the table being operatively connected to at least one torsion spring wherein the torsion spring forces the table to a deployed position
Implementation Method 2
a lid arm operatively connected on a first end to a lid and on a second end pivotally connected to a first end of a cam rod; the cam rod being pivotally connected on a second end to a pivotally mounted cam
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft side ledge table deploying mechanism including a table mounted to a pivot plate. The pivot plate being able to slide in a linear channel. The pivot plate is forced upwards by the release of a torsion spring. The torsion spring is able to be released when a lid is pivoted to a past open position. When the pivot plate translates upwards the table protrudes from an aircraft side ledge and a user may grasp the table and move it to a deployed position.