Deployable Aircraft Armrest Assembly for Expandable Seat Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft seats are limited in space due to fixed armrests that reduce available seating area.
Innovation Solution
A deployable armrest assembly that can transition between a stowed position and a deployed position, forming an auxiliary seating section when deployed, using an actuator system with a locking mechanism to expand the seating area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed armrest is provided in the aircraft seat, then passenger comfort is improved, but seat space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is designed to be deployable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between a stowed position (preserving seat space) and a deployed position (providing armrest support). This dynamic configuration enables the seat to adapt between maximizing space and providing comfort based on passenger needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest function is segmented from the main seat structure, allowing it to be independently deployed or stowed. This segmentation enables the armrest to be provided only when needed, rather than permanently occupying space as part of the fixed seat structure.
2Area of stationary object
If additional space is provided in the aircraft seat, then seat capacity is improved, but armrest functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest assembly includes an actuator that enables dynamic transformation between stowed and deployed states. When deployed, the armrest providing panel extends to provide full armrest functionality; when stowed, maximum seat space is maintained. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to provide armrest functionality only when required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a deployable armrest assembly is provided, then space flexibility is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable armrest assembly integrates multiple functions into a single mechanism: it serves as both an armrest when deployed and a space-saving component when stowed. The actuator system provides both deployment and stowing capabilities, and the locking assembly ensures stable positioning in both states, making the assembly versatile rather than merely complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking assembly automatically engages to secure the armrest in its deployed position, and the actuator system manages the transformation between states without requiring complex external control mechanisms. This self-service capability reduces the overall system complexity despite the added functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft seat includes a primary seating section including a primary seat pan and seatback. The aircraft seat further includes one or more deployable armrest assemblies, where each armrest assembly is configured to actuate between a stowed and deployed position. Each armrest assembly includes an actuator sub-system including a locking assembly and an actuator. Each armrest assembly further includes an armrest attaching panel. When the armrest assemblies are positioned in the deployed position, the armrest assemblies form an auxiliary seating section, where the armrest attaching panel is configured as an auxiliary seat pan. When the locking assembly is in the unlocked state, the actuator actuates the armrest assemblies to the deployed position. The auxiliary and primary seat pan form a wide seating surface when in the deployed position. A top surface of the auxiliary seat pan is substantially flush with a top surface of the primary seat pan cushion.