Aircraft Stowage Bin Assembly with Pivot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial aircraft stowage bins often struggle to accommodate the increasing size of carry-on baggage, leading to insufficient overhead space for passengers, especially as smaller aircraft have bins that cannot fit larger bags, resulting in stress for passengers and crew due to limited storage options.
Innovation Solution
A stowage bin assembly featuring a strongback and pivot bin with a closeout bracket, where the pivot bin is configured to pivot between open and closed positions, and the closeout bracket spans between the forward and aft end panels, allowing for the accommodation of standard-sized roller bags in a vertically-oriented position, increasing storage capacity without the need for complex assist mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If stowage bin capacity is increased to accommodate larger carry-on baggage, then the volume of the stowage bin must be increased, but this increases the device complexity and requires more space above seats
Solution Approach 1:
The stowage bin is divided into multiple sections separated by dividers, allowing independent organization of different baggage sizes. Each section can be optimized for specific bag types while maintaining overall capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The bin incorporates movable elements such as adjustable dividers and flexible retainers that can adapt to different baggage configurations, enabling the same bin structure to accommodate varying bag sizes without requiring multiple fixed-configuration bins
2Ease of operation
If power assist mechanisms are added to help close heavy bins, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A counterweight mechanism is integrated into the bin structure that automatically balances the bin's weight during opening and closing operations. This mechanical counterbalance system provides power assist functionality through pure mechanical means, eliminating the need for electric motors or complex control systems while still reducing the effort required to operate heavy bins
Solution Approach 2:
The bin incorporates self-latching mechanisms and automatic alignment features that allow the bin to close and secure itself with minimal user intervention. The design leverages the user's natural closing motion to engage latches and seals, providing ease of operation without requiring additional powered assistance systems
3Quantity of substance
If stowage bins are made larger to fit more bags, then the quantity of baggage accommodated increases, but the height available above seats is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bin design allows smaller bags to be nested within larger bags or positioned in recessed areas of the bin structure. This nesting capability increases the effective quantity of baggage that can be stored without requiring additional vertical height, as items are utilized in three-dimensional space more efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The bin incorporates lateral expansion capabilities and optimized internal geometry that increase storage volume by utilizing width and depth dimensions rather than solely increasing height. This dimensional redistribution allows more bags to be accommodated while maintaining a height profile that fits within the available space above seats
4Adaptability or versatility
If more stowage bins are installed to accommodate all passengers, then the adaptability increases, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bin design incorporates universal features such as standardized dimensions, multiple access points, and configurable internal arrangements that allow a single bin design to serve multiple functions and accommodate different passenger needs. This universality increases adaptability without requiring multiple specialized bin types or complex installation configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The bin includes movable dividers and adjustable retainers that can be reconfigured based on passenger requirements and baggage types. This dynamic adjustability allows the same bin structure to adapt to varying storage needs, providing versatility without requiring additional bins or complex fixed-configuration systems
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 stowage bin assembly significantly increases the number of bags that can be stored overhead, reducing passenger stress and crew workload by providing ample space for all bags, enhancing boarding efficiency and ensuring all passengers can stow their luggage, while being aesthetically pleasing, lightweight, and tamper-resistant.
Implementation Method 1
The pivot bin is configured to be pivoted between open and closed positions
Implementation Method 2
The pivot bin is pivotally secured to the strongback
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A stowage bin assembly (118) is configured to be positioned above at least a portion of one or more seats (110) within a vehicle. The stowage bin assembly (118) may include a pivot bin (120) including a forward end panel (132), an aft end panel (134) that is opposed to the forward end panel (132), a front panel (126) extending between the forward and aft end panels, and a closeout bracket (138) secured to the forward end panel (132), the aft end panel (134), and the front panel (126). A baggage retaining chamber (140) is defined between the forward end panel (132), the aft end panel (134), and the front panel (126). The closeout bracket (138) spans between the forward end panel (132) and the aft end panel (134). (Fig. 5)