Center Frame Assembly Layout for Aircraft Seat Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aircraft passenger seat frame assemblies lack a central frame component in the lateral direction, which can compromise structural efficiency and weight minimization, especially when designed for odd numbers of frame assemblies to handle load transfer effectively during hard landings and crash conditions.
Innovation Solution
A central frame assembly is introduced, comprising a spreader member and a lower frame member with clamp members and fastener holes, aligned to be approximately coplanar, with lock fasteners securing the assembly to lateral members, ensuring stability and load distribution without additional parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an even number of frame assemblies are used along the lateral length of the seat, then the framework arrangement is conventional and easier to manufacture, but there is no lower frame component at the center of the seat which reduces structural efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is segmented into multiple components including upper frame members, lower frame members, and central frame members that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. This allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a central frame assembly with a single lower frame member at the center of the seat, creating an asymmetric configuration. This asymmetric design provides a load path directly through the center of the seat structure, improving structural efficiency without requiring a complete redesign of the entire framework.
2Strength
If a central frame assembly is introduced to improve structural efficiency, then load transfer is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The central frame assembly merges the functions of multiple components into a integrated structure. The upper frame members, lower frame members, and central frame members are connected through standardized interfaces, combining load-bearing functions while reducing the number of separate parts needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection points that serve multiple functions. The same structural members provide both load-bearing capabilities and attachment points for seat components, reducing overall device complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the spreader or upper portions of the frame assemblies are offset from the lower portion, then manufacturing is simplified, but the load path efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing vertical alignment of upper and lower frame members specifically at the central frame assembly location, while other frame assemblies may maintain offset configurations. This localized optimization improves load path efficiency where it is most needed without requiring changes to the entire framework.
Data Source
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AI summary
A central frame assembly for a passenger seat of a vehicle includes a spreader member (201) and a lower frame member (101) comprising at least one clamp member (121) for securing the lower frame member (101) relative to the spreader member (201). The lower frame member (101) may include a vertical portion (102) with a forward lower attachment portion (102.1) and an aft portion (103) with an aft lower attachment portion (103.1). The spreader member (201) and the lower frame member (101) may be aligned such that a centerline of the spreader member (201) and a centerline of the lower frame member (101) are approximately coplanar.