Integrated Overhead Payload Module Stowbin Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aircraft overhead payload modules are often heavier, more costly, and require longer installation times due to separate mounting and excessive components, with underutilized space and redundant structures.

Innovation Solution

The overhead payload module integrates a ceiling assembly, aisle floor assembly, and payload assemblies with structurally integrated stowbin modules and aisle support structures, using blade fittings for secure attachment to support rails, reducing weight and installation time while optimizing space utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the overhead payload module and stowbin support assembly are mounted separately to the same support structure, then both components can be independently installed and maintained, but the support structure requires additional space and the installation time increases due to separate mounting procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent installation and maintenanceVSAvoidInstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the overhead payload module and stowbin support assembly into a single integrated structure where the stowbin support assembly is mounted directly to the overhead payload module rather than to a separate support structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate mounting procedures while maintaining independent functionality of both components, thereby reducing installation time without compromising ease of manufacture and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of manufacture

If the overhead payload module and stowbin support assembly are mounted separately to the same support structure, then both components can be independently installed and maintained, but excessive components such as fasteners are required

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent installation and maintenanceVSAvoidNumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integration of the stowbin support assembly directly to the overhead payload module eliminates the intermediate support structure and reduces the number of fasteners and mounting components required. The combined structure shares common mounting interfaces and structural elements, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving the ability to independently install and maintain both components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the module and stowbin support assembly are mounted within the aircraft to the same support structure, then both commodities can be supported, but the support structure requires additional space for both commodities

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveStructural support capabilityVSAvoidSupport structure space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The stowbin support assembly is nested within or directly attached to the overhead payload module structure, allowing both commodities to be supported by the same structural elements. This nesting arrangement eliminates the need for separate support structures and reduces the total space required in the aircraft, while maintaining the reliability and load-bearing capability of the integrated structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Adaptability or versatility

If separate mounting of the module and stowbin support assembly is performed, then installation flexibility is maintained, but the amount of time spent during installation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation flexibilityVSAvoidInstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The overhead payload module and stowbin support assembly are integrated into a single installable unit that maintains design flexibility and adaptability. The combined structure includes standardized mounting interfaces that allow for easy installation and reconfiguration, thereby reducing installation time while preserving installation flexibility through modular design elements and adjustable mounting points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11511861B2Overhead payload module with integrated stowbins
Publication Date: 2022.11.29 THE BOEING CO
  • US11511861B2 patent drawing
  • US11511861B2 patent drawing
  • US11511861B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an example, an overhead payload module is described. The overhead payload module comprises a ceiling assembly, an aisle floor assembly, a first payload assembly attached to the ceiling assembly and the aisle floor assembly to form a first side of the overhead payload module, and a second payload assembly attached to the ceiling assembly and the aisle floor assembly to form a second side of the overhead payload module. The first payload assembly comprises a first payload module and a first overhead stowbin module structurally integrated with the first payload module and having a first stowage area configured to receive stowbins. The second payload assembly is positioned opposite the first payload assembly to form an aisle therebetween and comprises a second payload module and a second overhead stowbin module structurally integrated with the second payload module and having a second stowage area configured to receive stowbins.