Deployable table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deployable tables in aircraft seating arrangements are overly complex and hinder rapid ingress/egress due to complicated deployment mechanisms, requiring a solution that minimizes space usage while enabling quick transitions between stowed and deployed positions while maintaining stability.
Innovation Solution
A deployable table assembly that moves longitudinally from a stowed to a deployed position on a console, featuring a locking device to prevent lateral movement, actuation via a resilient biasing element, and a pivot mechanism from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, facilitated by a carriage with wheels or slides, and a latch mechanism for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a deployable table uses a complex deployment mechanism (such as cam mechanism or arcuate rail mechanism), then the table can be held in flush position and provide stable surface, but the deployment process becomes overcomplicated and slows down ingress/egress speed
Solution Approach 1:
The table assembly is divided into separate functional components: a table surface, a carriage for longitudinal movement, and a locking device with latch mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall deployment mechanism while maintaining stability through the dedicated locking device.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex mechanisms to hold the table in place during deployment, the invention uses a simple locking device that engages only when the table reaches its deployed position. The latch mechanism inverts the approach by allowing free movement during deployment and then locking securely at the destination, rather than requiring continuous complex control throughout the movement.
2Volume of moving object
If a deployable table uses minimal space in stowed position, then seating space is maximized, but the deployment mechanism becomes more compact and potentially more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The table assembly is designed to nest within the console when not in use. The carriage with table surface fits into a recess in the console, and the locking device integrates with the console structure. This nesting arrangement minimizes the volume occupied during stowed position while maintaining a simple deployment mechanism through straightforward linear movement and latch engagement.
3Productivity
If a deployable table uses rapid deployment mechanism, then ingress/egress speed is improved, but the table may lack stability in deployed position
Solution Approach 1:
The stability function is extracted from the deployment mechanism itself and placed into a separate locking device. This allows the deployment mechanism to remain simple and fast (using only linear movement and spring actuation), while the locking device with latch provides dedicated stability once deployment is complete. The separation of deployment and locking functions enables rapid deployment without compromising stability.
4Reliability
If a locking device is added to prevent lateral movement, then table stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed to be self-actuating through a linkage mechanism connected to the carriage. As the carriage moves longitudinally into the deployed position, the linkage automatically triggers the latch to engage, preventing lateral movement without requiring additional controls or complex actuation systems. The system locks itself based on the carriage position, providing stability while maintaining simplicity.
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
Enables rapid and stable deployment and stowage of the table, ensuring minimal space usage and unobstructed access, enhancing passenger mobility and comfort by simplifying the deployment process.
Implementation Method 1
the actuation device optionally comprising resilient biasing element arranged to urge the table assembly towards the deployed position
Data Source
AI summary
A seating arrangement comprising at least one seat; a console adjacent the at least one seat; a deployable table assembly; and locking device. The table assembly is movable in a longitudinal direction from a stowed position into a deployed position in which it is located on an upper surface of the console. The locking device is operable to releasably engage the table assembly in the deployed position to prevent movement of the table assembly in a lateral direction.