Deployable Transfer Member for Aircraft Lavatory Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial aircraft lavatories are too small for individuals with reduced mobility, making them difficult to access and use, and existing larger lavatories compromise passenger seating space.
Innovation Solution
A deployable transfer member is integrated into the lavatory wall, which can be moved between a stowed and deployed position, with the deployed position supported by the toilet, allowing easy transfer between areas within the lavatory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lavatory size is increased to improve accessibility for persons of reduced mobility, then ease of operation is improved, but the area available for passenger seating is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer member is designed to be movable between a stowed position (folded against the wall) and a deployed position (extended to provide transfer support). This dynamic configuration allows the lavatory to adapt its internal space: when the transfer member is stowed, maximum space is available for passenger seating; when deployed, it provides the necessary accessibility support without permanently occupying space
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer member is integrated into the lavatory wall structure, with the board nested within a recess in the wall when not in use. This nesting approach allows the transfer function to be incorporated into the existing lavatory structure without adding external protrusions that would reduce passenger seating area
2Ease of operation
If a separate transfer board is provided for persons using wheelchairs, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components and steps
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer member is merged with the lavatory structure itself - it is secured to the wall and supported by the toilet, combining multiple functions (wall mounting, toilet support, transfer surface) into a single integrated system. This eliminates the need for separate transfer boards and reduces the number of components that need to be managed
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer member is designed to be easily deployable and stowable by the user themselves, without requiring assistance from flight attendants or other personnel. The simple hinge mechanism and securing devices allow the user to independently deploy the transfer surface when needed and stow it when not in use
Data Source
AI summary
A lavatory includes a toilet, a wall proximate to the toilet, and a transfer member moveably secured to the wall. The transfer member is moveable between a stowed position away from the toilet, and a deployed position. At least a portion of the transfer member in the deployed position is supported by at least a portion of the toilet.