Suspended Rack System for Aircraft Upper Lobe Cargo Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft cargo systems face inefficiencies in utilizing the upper lobe's overhead space due to the height constraint of standard cargo containers, which leaves a significant portion of the fuselage volume unfilled, especially in wide-body aircraft, and require minimal modifications to existing structures for passenger conversion.
Innovation Solution
A suspended rack system is installed in the fuselage, using pre-existing attachment points and load vectors to support additional cargo containers, with a trusswork framework that maintains load vectors similar to those for overhead stowage bins, and a lift mechanism to move containers between decks, ensuring efficient use of upper lobe space without major structural changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If standard cargo containers are used in the upper lobe, then the containers can be loaded through lower lobe hatches, but the height constraint of the containers leaves significant upper lobe volume unfilled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third vertical level by installing a suspended rack system that extends upward from the main deck, creating an upper cargo stowage level. This transforms the single-level cargo arrangement into a multi-level configuration, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension of the upper lobe that was previously inaccessible to standard containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspended rack system is nested within the existing upper lobe structure, utilizing the space between the main deck and the upper lobe ceiling. The rack system integrates with existing aircraft structures (frames, bulkheads) while creating a new cargo stowage layer that fits within the available envelope without requiring complete structural redesign.
2Ease of operation
If cargo loading hatches are added to the upper lobe, then direct access to upper cargo space is enabled, but major structural modifications to the fuselage skin and frames are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a lift system as an intermediary mechanism that transfers cargo containers from the lower lobe loading position to the upper lobe stowage position. This mediator enables upper cargo access without requiring direct hatches in the upper fuselage, thus avoiding major structural modifications while still achieving the goal of upper lobe cargo utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
Cargo containers are preliminarily loaded into the lower lobe through existing hatches, and then the lift system transports them to the upper lobe stowage position. This preliminary loading action at the lower level avoids the need for direct upper level access points, simplifying the structural requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a lift mechanism is used to move containers to the upper lobe, then cargo can be loaded through lower hatches, but the structural modifications required for the lift system reduce ease of manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The suspended rack system and lift mechanism are designed to utilize existing aircraft structures (frames, bulkheads, overhead bin attachment points) for support and mounting. By making the system universal with existing structures, the installation requires minimal custom fabrication and modification, easing the manufacturing and installation process while still enabling upper lobe cargo operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cargo storage and handling system for aircraft. A rack assembly mounts in an upper portion of the fuselage to form a cargo area in the upper lobe thereof. The rack includes a series of frames that are suspended from pre-existing attachment points for luggage bins. Cargo rails mounted on the frames support containers for movement through the upper lobe cargo area. Cargo may be raised to the upper lobe cargo area from the main deck of the aircraft using a lift apparatus. The lift apparatus includes a platform that is raised/lowered by a lift mechanism, the lift mechanism being mounted to/or enclosed within a barrier between the cargo and personnel areas of the aircraft, such as a 9G Barrier. A cover apparatus closes a cargo hole in the main deck of the aircraft for personnel safety. The cover apparatus includes a plurality of the elongate plate members that are mounted to underfloor portions of the seat tracks of the main deck of the aircraft so as to be selectively extensible/retractable into and out of the opening.