Aircraft Tray Table Interlock Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide-out tray tables for aircraft lack intuitive interlock assemblies that prevent damage to the tray table and adjacent structures during movement, and current interlock assemblies are often heavy and complex.
Innovation Solution
An interlock assembly for aircraft tray tables that includes a first interlock movable from an unlocked to a locked position by rotating the table leaf from a stowed to a deployed position, and a second interlock movable from an unlocked to a locked position by rotating the table leaf into the deployed position, using a cam mechanism to translate rotation into linear motion, thereby limiting movement and preventing contact with adjacent structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known interlock assemblies are used to restrict linear movement of the base and rotation of the table leaf, then damage to the tray table and adjacent structure is prevented, but the interlock assemblies become relatively heavy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock assembly is divided into two separate interlocks: a first interlock that engages with the base to restrict linear movement, and a second interlock that engages with the table leaf to restrict rotation. This segmentation allows each interlock to be simpler and lighter while collectively providing comprehensive protection against damage.
2Reliability
If known interlock assemblies are used to restrict linear movement of the base and rotation of the table leaf, then damage to the tray table and adjacent structure is prevented, but the interlock assemblies become relatively heavy
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the interlock function into two separate, specialized interlocks rather than one complex heavy interlock, the overall weight is reduced while maintaining the reliability needed to prevent damage to the tray table and adjacent structure.
3Reliability
If known interlock assemblies are used to restrict linear movement of the base and rotation of the table leaf, then damage to the tray table and adjacent structure is prevented, but the interlock assemblies become relatively heavy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock assembly operates automatically based on the tray table's position and configuration. The first interlock engages/disengages automatically when the base moves between retracted and extended positions, and the second interlock engages/disengages automatically when the table leaf rotates between stowed and deployed positions. This self-service operation eliminates the need for user intervention and provides intuitive operation.
4Reliability
If a single complex interlock assembly is used to restrict both linear movement and rotation, then damage prevention is achieved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock function is segmented into two independent interlocks: the first interlock handles linear movement restriction of the base, and the second interlock handles rotation restriction of the table leaf. This segmentation reduces overall device complexity compared to a single complex interlock assembly that would need to handle both functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Each interlock is designed to perform its specific function (linear movement restriction or rotation restriction) across multiple operating conditions and positions of the tray table, providing multi-functionality within each simplified component rather than requiring a single complex interlock to handle all scenarios.
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 interlock assembly enhances user intuition, reduces the likelihood of damage to the tray table and adjacent structures, and simplifies the design by reducing weight and complexity, while allowing for interchangeable components that lower maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
using a cam mechanism to translate rotation into linear motion
Data Source
AI summary
An interlock assembly for a tray table of an aircraft includes a first interlock configured to be moved from an unlocked position to a locked position by rotation of a table leaf of the tray table from a stowed position toward a deployed position of the table leaf. The first interlock is configured to be moved from the locked position of the first interlock to the unlocked position of the first interlock by rotation of the table leaf into the deployed position. The interlock assembly includes a second interlock configured to be moved from an unlocked position of the second interlock to a locked position of the second interlock by rotation of the table leaf into the deployed position.