Movable Connection Device for Aircraft Galley Modular Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft galleys require adaptable installation solutions for modular units like steam ovens, which need connections to fluid sources during installation, but conventional connection devices are fixed and cannot accommodate varying compartment depths without modification.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a first and second line section, allowing displacement between a connection position and an operating position, enabling connection to modular units outside the compartment without altering the second line section, and featuring a rail arrangement and arresting mechanism for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the connection device is fixed in position, then the installation structure is simple, but the device cannot accommodate modular units of different depths or allow connection outside the compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is made movable along a predefined track within the compartment, transitioning between an operating position (near the front) and a connection position (near the rear). This dynamic positioning allows the device to adapt to modular units of varying depths while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is divided into two separate line sections: a first line section connected to the fluid source and a second line section connected to the modular unit. This segmentation allows independent adjustment and positioning of each line section, enabling adaptability to different compartment depths without requiring complete redesign of the connection system.
2Ease of operation
If the second line section is shortened for normal depth compartments, then the connection device is compact, but it cannot reach modular units in shallower compartments or allow external connection
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device can be dynamically repositioned along the track to adjust the effective length of the second line section. When connecting to modular units in shallower compartments or outside the compartment, the device moves to the connection position, effectively extending the reach of the second line section without physically lengthening it.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of extending the second line section in one dimension (length), the solution adds a spatial dimension by allowing movement along a track. This enables the connection device to reach modular units at different positions by changing its location along the track rather than increasing line section length.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connection device is movable on a track, then the device can accommodate different compartment depths, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is segmented into movable components (the connection device itself) and fixed components (the track and fluid source connection). This segmentation allows the movable part to provide adaptability while the fixed parts maintain structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The track provides multiple functions: it guides the movement of the connection device, defines the operating and connection positions, and supports the modular unit during installation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional structural elements, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A monument has a connection device, a fluid source and a compartment for the installation of a modular unit. The connection device is intended for connecting the fluid source to a modular unit installed in the compartment. The connection device includes two line sections. It is connected to the fluid source via one line section and can be connected to a modular unit via the other line section. The connection device is arranged so as to be displaced in the compartment on a predefined track between a connection position and an operating position. In the connection position the connection device is further from the rear end of the compartment than in the operating position. The connection device can be connected, in the connection position, via the second line section to a modular unit arranged outside the compartment. Also described is a system including a monument and a modular unit.