Foldable Aircraft Seat Base with Integrated Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircrafts lack effective securing systems for personal mobility devices (PMDs) like wheelchairs, leading to potential loss or damage during flights, and pose challenges for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) to securely fasten their devices, which are not adequately addressed by existing transit solutions.
Innovation Solution
A PRM securing apparatus comprising a base plinth with a latching mechanism that can be integrated into aircraft seating areas, allowing PMDs to be securely fastened without compromising standard passenger seating capacity or safety, and is adaptable to various PMD sizes and types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a PRM device is accommodated in the seating area, then the PRM can use their own device as an in-flight chair, but the standard passenger seating capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seat base is designed to be foldable against the seatback, transforming the seating configuration dynamically. When folded, the seatback and base create a flat surface that accommodates PRM devices while maintaining the same physical footprint as a standard seat, thus preserving seating capacity statistics while enabling PRM device usage
Solution Approach 2:
The seating area serves dual functions: it can accommodate a standard passenger seat in its unfolded configuration, or it can be transformed to accommodate a PRM device when the base is folded against the seatback. This multi-functionality allows the same space to serve different purposes without requiring additional capacity
2Reliability
If a securing system is installed in the seating area, then the PRM device can be securely fastened, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is integrated into the existing seat structure, specifically utilizing the seat track fitting and base plinth components that are already part of the aircraft seating system. This merging approach allows the securing function to be added without introducing entirely new complex systems, as the latching mechanism leverages existing structural elements
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is designed to be activated automatically or through simple manual intervention when the PRM device is placed on the seat. The mechanism self-secures the device by engaging with the base plinth and track fitting, reducing the need for complex manual securing procedures or additional operational steps
3Adaptability or versatility
If the seat base is folded against the seatback, then the PRM device can be accommodated, but the standard seating configuration is altered
Solution Approach 1:
The seat base is designed with foldable joints that allow it to be positioned in multiple configurations: unfolded for standard seating and folded against the seatback for PRM device accommodation. This dynamic design enables the structure to adapt to different uses while maintaining structural integrity through properly engineered hinge points and support mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
Securing a person with reduced mobility (PRM) device in a seating area is provided. More specifically, a securing apparatus includes a base plinth and a latching mechanism. The base plinth has at least one cavity and configured to be mounted with a track fitting for securing at least one seat thereon. The at least one seat includes a seatback and a base that is foldable against the seatback to accommodate a person with reduced mobility (PRM) device. The latching mechanism is in the at least one cavity of the base plinth and is configured to secure the PRM device to the base plinth when the PRM device is positioned proximate to the seatback and on the base plinth.