Cargo Stop Block Prevents Forward Movement

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Solution Overview

Problem

In commercial jet aircraft, cargo in the cargo compartment tends to slide forward and shift, causing issues with cargo nets disconnection and blocking access doors, necessitating a solution that is inexpensive, easy to install, and does not require FAA certification.

Innovation Solution

A cargo stop block with a cargo engagement wall member, backing member, and strap receiving recess, attached to the cargo compartment floor using tie-down straps, prevents forward movement of cargo by engaging with the cargo net anchors and providing a non-slip surface, while allowing easy installation and removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cargo nets are used to contain cargo, then cargo movement is limited, but cargo can still move forward sufficiently to hit cargo net anchors and disconnect the cargo net

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo containment reliabilityVSAvoidcargo forward movement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The cargo stop block serves as an intermediary device between the cargo net system and the cargo. It is positioned forward of the cargo net anchors and provides a physical barrier that stops cargo before it can reach and disconnect the cargo net anchors, thereby protecting the cargo net system while maintaining containment effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The cargo stop block is installed in advance before cargo is loaded, positioned at the forwardmost part of the cargo compartment. This preliminary placement creates a pre-positioned barrier that prevents cargo from moving forward to dangerous positions, eliminating the need for reactive measures when cargo movement is detected

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If cargo nets are used to contain cargo, then cargo movement is limited, but cargo can block full opening of the cargo compartment access door

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo containment reliabilityVSAvoiddoor access operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cargo stop block acts as an intermediary barrier that intercepts cargo movement before it can reach the door area. By positioning the stop block forward of the door, it prevents cargo from blocking door operation, thereby maintaining both containment reliability and ease of door access

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The stop block is pre-positioned in the forwardmost cargo compartment area before cargo is loaded. This preliminary action ensures that cargo cannot move forward to block the door, guaranteeing uninterrupted door access while maintaining cargo containment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If a cargo stop block is added to prevent cargo forward movement, then cargo containment is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo containment reliabilityVSAvoidcargo restraint system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cargo restraint system is segmented into distinct functional components: the cargo net system for lateral containment and the cargo stop block for forward movement prevention. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving overall reliability without requiring complete system redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cargo stop block is designed to work universally with existing cargo net systems and cargo compartment configurations. It can be installed in various cargo compartment types and works in conjunction with standard cargo net anchors, adding functionality without requiring system-specific customization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of manufacture

If cargo stop block is installed using tie-down straps, then installation is simple and reversible, but the block may move or rotate under cargo load

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidblock positional stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The cargo stop block incorporates a dynamic stabilization mechanism where the backing member portion and engagement wall member portion work together to resist rotation and movement. The geometric relationship between these components creates inherent stability that adapts to varying cargo loads while maintaining simple tie-down strap installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Effectively prevents cargo from moving forward and blocking access doors, maintaining the use of existing cargo nets while ensuring safe and efficient cargo compartment access without altering the aircraft's airframe or requiring certification.

Implementation Method 1

providing a non-slip surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS9896019B2Cargo stop block
Publication Date: 2018.02.20 BOYER WILLIAM J
  • US9896019B2 patent drawing
  • US9896019B2 patent drawing
  • US9896019B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cargo stop for use with a tie down strap with attachment members attachable to anchors in a floor of a cargo compartment usable for carrying cargo. The cargo stop having an elongated cargo engagement wall member portion with a rearward facing elongated engagement wall sized for engagement with cargo to resist forward movement of cargo engaging the engagement wall beyond the engagement wall, an elongated backing member portion rigidly connected to the cargo engagement wall member portion and projecting forward beyond the cargo engagement wall member portion, and an elongated strap receiving recess sized to receive the tie down strap. The length of the engagement wall being sized to position the left end portion of the engagement wall in proximity with a starboard wall of the cargo compartment and the right end portion of the engagement wall in proximity with a port wall of the cargo compartment.