Cockpit Tray Table Layout Around a Center Console
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tray table devices are not suitable for aircraft cockpits with center consoles, leaving pilots with limited options for holding or placing items due to the tight space.
Innovation Solution
A cockpit tray table system with laterally extending trays mounted on a frame adjacent to lateral walls, featuring removable trays and pockets for storage, allowing convenient use and stowage without obstructing cockpit controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tray table device is installed in a cockpit with a center console, then pilots gain a surface for holding items and food, but the device cannot be readily modified to fit within the tight space between seats and console
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table device is divided into separate components: a frame structure that attaches to the center console and individual tray elements that can be positioned and removed independently. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to the specific spatial constraints of cockpits with center consoles while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray table extends laterally from the center console outward toward the pilot and co-pilot, utilizing the lateral dimension rather than occupying vertical or depth space. This dimensional approach allows the tray to provide functional surface area without interfering with cockpit controls or joystick mechanisms.
2Area of moving object
If a tray table extends over the pilot's seat, then it provides adequate surface area for writing and holding items, but it may obstruct cockpit controls and joystick mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table is designed with differentiated zones: the lateral extension provides sufficient surface area for writing and item placement, while the underlying frame structure is configured to clear critical control areas. This local quality differentiation ensures adequate functional area without creating harmful interference with cockpit controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure serves as an intermediary element that supports the tray while maintaining spatial separation from critical controls. The frame attaches to the center console and extends laterally, providing structural support without the tray itself obstructing the pilot's access to controls and joystick mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the tray is fixed in position, then it provides stable support for items, but it cannot be easily removed or repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the frame and tray elements is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than permanently fixed. The frame provides stable support when the tray is in use, while allowing for easy removal and repositioning when needed, adapting to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is pre-installed and securely attached to the center console to provide stable support, while the tray elements are designed for preliminary positioning and easy removal. This preliminary configuration ensures stability during use while maintaining ease of repositioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A cockpit table system includes an airplane cockpit having a pair of front seats. A console is positioned in front of the seats and includes a central section that extends between the seats. The central section has a first lateral wall positioned adjacent to a first one of the seats and a second lateral wall positioned adjacent to a second one of the seats. A top wall extends between the first and second lateral walls. A frame is mounted to the console and is positioned adjacent to and outside of each of the first and second lateral walls. A first tray is mounted on the frame adjacent to the first lateral wall and a second tray is mounted on the frame adjacent to the second lateral wall. The first and second trays laterally extend away from each other and over their respectively adjacent seats.