Interlocking Larder Cases for Easier Access in Deep Compartments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional larder systems in aircraft and other vehicles face challenges with accessing and handling long larder cases due to space constraints, weight, and vibration issues, particularly when stacked, leading to difficulties in reaching inner cases and maintaining stability in partially filled compartments.
Innovation Solution
The larder system features interlocking larder cases that advance the inner case closer to the opening when the outer case is removed, with latches that interlock with each other and the enclosure, providing stability and preventing cases from bouncing during movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple smaller larder cases are stacked into the same compartment, then space utilization is improved, but accessing inner cases becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where inner larder cases are positioned within the depth of outer cases in the same compartment. This allows multiple cases to be stored in limited space while maintaining individual accessibility through the interlocking mechanism that enables outer cases to be removed without requiring removal of inner cases.
2Volume of stationary object
If deep larder enclosures are used to store multiple cases, then storage capacity is improved, but reaching inner cases requires uncomfortable stretching
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking mechanism performs preliminary action by automatically advancing the inner case closer to the compartment opening when the outer case is removed. This eliminates the need for users to reach deep into the compartment, as the inner case is repositioned to an easily accessible location before the user needs to access it.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic repositioning where the inner case automatically changes its position relative to the compartment opening based on the presence or removal of outer cases. This dynamic adjustment optimizes accessibility without requiring manual intervention or deep reaching.
3Quantity of substance
If larder cases are positioned in deep compartments, then storage density is improved, but cases may bounce in partially filled compartments during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking mechanism merges adjacent larder cases into a unified stable structure where outer cases provide structural support to inner cases. This combined structure prevents individual cases from bouncing or shifting during vehicle movement, while still allowing dense packing of multiple cases in the compartment.
4Volume of stationary object
If long larder cases are used to maximize space, then storage capacity is improved, but removal and handling becomes difficult due to narrow space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into multiple smaller, standardized larder cases that can be independently handled. This segmentation allows cases to be easily removed and maneuvered in narrow spaces, while the cumulative storage capacity of multiple cases equals or exceeds that of fewer long cases.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are larders systems, aircraft equipped with such systems, and methods of operating such systems. A larder system includes at least two larder cases removably disposed in the same compartment of a larder enclosure. The two cases are detachably interlocked with each other such that removal of the outer case from the enclosure advances the inner case closer to the opening. After the removal of the outer case, the inner case may be retained at the opening. The two cases may be interlocked when pushed against each other, such as when the outer case is inserted into the compartment containing the inner case. In some embodiments, a larder case may be interlocked with the larder enclosure or one of its components, such as a door. This enclosure interlocking allows for the larder case to retain its interlocked position when, for example, the enclosure is only partially filed.