Asymmetric Pivot Bin Interior for Aircraft Luggage Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft luggage bins with symmetric designs are inefficient in utilizing space, limiting the number of carry-on bags that can be stored and requiring significant modifications to retrofit older aircraft with modern, passenger-preferred pivot bucket systems, which are costly.
Innovation Solution
An asymmetric Pivot Bin Interior (PBI) configuration with a unique layout of two buckets per module, where one bucket is narrower and one wider, allowing for improved storage capacity and easier access, and can be retrofitted into standard aircraft modules without extensive modifications, incorporating electronic latching and assist systems, LED lighting, and modern interior design elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If symmetric bin designs are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but space utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring the bin divider offset from the longitudinal centerline, creating first and second buckets of different widths. The first bucket width is greater than the second bucket width, allowing optimized space utilization for different bag sizes and types while maintaining structural simplicity through the single offset divider design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pivot bucket systems are retrofitted into older aircraft, then passenger preference and storage flexibility are improved, but retrofit cost and modification complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the bin housing into modular components including the bin housing, bin divider, first bucket, and second bucket as separate replaceable units. This segmentation allows airlines to retrofit older aircraft by replacing only the bucket assembly while retaining the existing bin housing structure, significantly reducing retrofit costs and complexity compared to complete system replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the pivotable bucket design where the first and second buckets can rotate between open and closed positions around pivot points. This dynamic capability provides storage flexibility and ease of access that passengers prefer, while the buckets can be independently adjusted or replaced to optimize for different operational requirements.
3Quantity of substance
If equal width buckets are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but storage capacity for varied luggage sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different bucket widths at different longitudinal positions within the same bin housing. The first bucket has a greater width optimized for larger or bulkier bags, while the second bucket has a smaller width suitable for smaller personal items. This local differentiation of dimensions allows the system to accommodate varied luggage sizes efficiently, increasing the total number of bags that can be stored.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an asymmetric luggage stowage bin arrangement, with a pair of buckets attached to a single bin housing. The buckets being unequal in length, to optimize the storage capacity of the bin housing relative to the most common luggage dimensions on the market. In one form, the asymmetric luggage stowage bin arrangement is used as a retrofit to replace shelf-style luggage stowage compartments common to older style aircraft.