Aircraft Table Extension Cam Track Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table extension solutions in aircraft VIP areas are unsatisfactory in terms of movement control and end storage, failing to meet the requirements for safe operation during take-off and landing.
Innovation Solution
A table extension system featuring a movable secondary shelf supported by guide pins and a link guide with locking devices, utilizing a Bowden cable for easy movement and secure storage, and designed with guide rollers and curvature in the guide grooves for ergonomic and intuitive operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a folding table design is used to retract the tray during takeoff and landing, then space safety is improved, but the table extension functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into a main tray and a secondary tray that can be independently extended. The secondary tray is supported by legs with guide pins that move along guide grooves, allowing it to be extended or retracted independently from the main tray. This segmentation enables the main tray to be retracted for safety during takeoff and landing while the secondary tray can remain extended to maintain table functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary tray is designed to be dynamically adjustable through the guide pin and guide groove mechanism. The guide grooves allow the secondary tray to move between extended and retracted positions, providing dynamic adaptability. This dynamic design enables the table to transition between different configurations based on operational requirements, maintaining both safety and functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a secondary tray is added to extend the table surface, then table functionality is improved, but movement control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide pin acts as an intermediary element between the secondary tray and the guide groove. This simple mechanical intermediary constrains the movement of the secondary tray to follow the predefined path of the guide groove, providing automatic movement control without complex mechanisms. The guide pin-guide groove interaction naturally guides the secondary tray during extension and retraction, simplifying the overall control system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the secondary tray is made movable for extension, then adaptability is improved, but stability during movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The guide groove is designed with specific curvature to dynamically control the movement of the secondary tray. The curved guide groove ensures that the secondary tray follows a controlled path during extension and retraction, maintaining stability throughout the movement. The dynamic design of the guide groove allows the tray to move smoothly while preventing unwanted lateral movements or instability.
4Ease of operation
If guide grooves with curvature are used to guide the secondary tray, then movement guidance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide groove can be manufactured as a simple molded feature in the base structure or as a separate plastic component. These guide grooves can be produced using cost-effective manufacturing methods such as injection molding, which can easily create curved paths. The guide groove structure is relatively simple and can be manufactured as a disposable or replaceable component, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the curved geometry.
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 system provides secure movement guidance and easy storage of the secondary shelf during take-off and landing, ensuring safety and comfort while minimizing material usage and maintaining stability, visual appeal, and light weight.
Implementation Method 1
To reduce friction, the guide rollers can be made of rubber-coated steel.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a table extension for an aircraft table with a base, in which a main shelf is supplemented by a movable secondary shelf supported by a cam track attached to the base. According to the invention, the secondary shelf is moved by at least one leg with two guide pins via a cam track, wherein the cam track has two guide grooves that interact with the guide pins to support the secondary shelf and are shaped in such a way that a movement profile for the secondary shelf is created that can also be manually represented, and the secondary shelf can be stowed under the main shelf.