Kinematic Link Sliding Mechanism to Reduce Tray Table Binding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding mechanisms for passenger seat components, such as tray tables, suffer from binding issues, resulting in poor sliding quality, which affects ergonomics, maintenance costs, weight, and manufacturing complexity in aircraft and similar vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A kinematic sliding mechanism using a system of links connected by pin joints and slip joints to facilitate smooth translation and rotation, reducing friction and binding, and allowing for predictable movement between extended and retracted configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional retractable arms are used for tray table mounting, then the tray table can be pulled toward the passenger when deployed, but binding occurs in the sliding components resulting in poor sliding quality
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding mechanism is divided into multiple rigid links (first link, second link, third link, fourth link) connected by pin joints, with each link performing a specific function in the motion sequence. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific role while working together to achieve smooth overall motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses a dynamic four-bar linkage system where links rotate and translate relative to each other through pin joints, creating a controlled motion path that eliminates binding. The dynamic interaction between links allows the tray table to move smoothly between deployed and retracted positions.
2Volume of moving object
If bi-fold table design is used, then the tray table can be compact when stowed, but the contact surface length for each slide is much smaller than the distance between slides exacerbating binding problems
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from linear sliding motion to rotational motion in a different dimensional space. By using a four-bar linkage where links rotate about pin joints rather than sliding linearly, the mechanism achieves compact stowage while eliminating the binding associated with short linear contact surfaces.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional sliding mechanisms are used, then manufacturing and assembly can be simplified, but binding occurs resulting in poor sliding quality and increased maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces conventional linear sliding mechanisms with a four-bar linkage rotational mechanism. This substitution eliminates the binding problems inherent in sliding contacts while maintaining mechanical simplicity through the use of pin joints and rigid links that are easy to manufacture and assemble.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A tray table assembly includes a lateral member, at least one pivot arm attached to the lateral member, a sliding mechanism, attached to the lateral member, and a tray base attached to the sliding mechanism. The sliding mechanism may include at least one outboard link, at least one pivot link, and at least one rear link. The tray table assembly may include a retracted configuration and an extended configuration.