Aircraft Galley Insert Mounting with Floating Support Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft galley systems require separate space for heating and cooling devices, leading to inefficiencies in weight and space utilization, and lack a flexible system for integrating appliances with the monument structure.
Innovation Solution
A location and support system for aircraft galley inserts that includes a rigid part attached to the appliance case and a flexible part attached to the monument, allowing for reduced weight, increased space efficiency, and tool-free installation and removal, with features like floating stabilizer connectors and vane features for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the galley insert or appliance case is made self-supporting with sufficient rigidity, then it can maintain structural stability, but the weight of the galley insert or appliance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a rigid, self-supporting structure to a flexible, movable connection system. The galley insert is no longer required to be structurally rigid for self-support, but instead uses a flexible connection that allows movement while maintaining stability through the connection mechanism itself rather than the insert structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary connection system between the galley insert and the monument structure. This intermediary mechanism provides the necessary support and stability, allowing the galley insert case to be lightweight while still achieving structural stability through the connection system rather than relying on the insert's own rigidity
2Area of stationary object
If galley inserts or appliances are placed in close proximity to increase space efficiency, then space utilization improves, but the risk of contact and damage between appliances increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible connection system enables appliances to be placed closer together by allowing each appliance to move independently within its connection mechanism. This dynamic capability absorbs potential contact forces and prevents damage while maintaining close proximity for space efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible connection system acts as a pre-configured cushioning mechanism that prevents contact damage before it can occur. By allowing movement and absorbing forces through the flexible connection, the system protects appliances from damage that would otherwise result from close placement
3Strength
If the galley insert uses a rigid fixed attachment system, then it provides stable support, but the installation and removal requires tools and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a rigid fixed attachment to a dynamic flexible connection that maintains support strength while enabling tool-free installation and removal. The flexibility allows for easy engagement and disengagement without requiring tools, while the connection mechanism itself provides the necessary support strength
Data Source
AI summary
A location and support system for installation of an aircraft galley insert case for location and attachment of an aircraft galley insert in an aircraft galley monument includes a floating stabilizer connector fixedly mounted to an upper surface of the aircraft galley insert case, and a floating receiver shelf engagement insert fixedly mounted to an attachment slot in an upper portion of a compartment in the aircraft galley monument for receiving the aircraft galley insert case. The floating receiver shelf engagement insert includes a slotted portion configured to removably receive the floating stabilizer connector. The aircraft galley insert may also include a plurality of ceramic spacers embedded in formed insulation.