Aircraft Cabin Table Deployment Mechanism with Flush Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft cabin interior layout assemblies are not aesthetically pleasing when the table is deployed, as the cover remains open, protrudes above the plate, limits accessibility, and the hinges of the deployment mechanism are visible, while also not providing a flush surface and adequate rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A support device with a guide mechanism that allows the table to pivot on a bearing point while sliding laterally, using a rail and rack system for a unique and reproducible trajectory, and an elastic biasing member to drive the table upward, with a cover that closes flush with the console surface when retracted, enhancing aesthetics and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cover remains open to allow table deployment, then the table is accessible, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and the cover protrudes above the console surface
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is transformed from a static component to a dynamic one that moves with the table. The cover is articulated to the table and follows its deployment trajectory, opening when the table deploys and closing when the table retracts, maintaining aesthetic appearance in both positions
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is integrated into the table structure itself, with the cover forming part of the table assembly. When the table is retracted, the cover closes flush with the console surface; when deployed, the cover moves with the table, eliminating the protruding appearance
2Area of moving object
If the table deploys horizontally away from the console, then the table provides adequate working surface, but the deployment mechanism hinges become visible and aesthetics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment mechanism is transformed from a visible static hinge system to a dynamic integrated mechanism. The table pivots on a bearing point that is initially hidden within the console, and the deployment path is guided to maintain aesthetic appearance throughout the motion sequence
3Device complexity
If the table deploys with a simple hinge mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the deployment trajectory is not unique and reproducible, affecting rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a bearing point for pivoting, a guide path for trajectory control, and a rail for lateral movement guidance. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall trajectory consistency
Solution Approach 2:
A guide path acts as an intermediary element between the bearing point and the table. This intermediary component ensures that the table follows a unique and reproducible trajectory during deployment, maintaining rigidity and consistency without requiring complex mechanism
4Force
If the table rests on the upper plate of the console, then the table is supported, but the table is not flush with the console surface and accessibility to areas behind the plate is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The table support system is transformed from a static plate-based support to a dynamic bearing point system. The table pivots on a bearing point that maintains consistent positioning, and the guide path ensures the table moves along a controlled trajectory, achieving both support and flush alignment with the console surface
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 solution provides a compact, aesthetically pleasing, and robust deployment mechanism that ensures the table is flush with the console surface, hiding the hinges and improving accessibility, while maintaining structural rigidity and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic biasing member to drive the table upward
Implementation Method 2
using a rail and rack system for a unique and reproducible trajectory
Data Source
AI summary
A supporting device for an interior layout assembly of an aircraft cabin, a related assembly and method are provided. The device includes a stationary frame; a table that can be deployed relative to the frame between a retracted position and a horizontal deployed position; a mechanism for guiding the movement of the table relative to the frame between the retracted position and the deployed horizontal position. The guide mechanism defines at least one bearing point for the table during its passage from the retracted position to the deployed horizontal position, the bearing point having a globally invariable position relative to the frame, the table being configured to pivot on the bearing point while moving laterally away relative to the bearing point, by sliding on the bearing point, to the deployed position.