Outboard Pivot Bin Assembly for Aircraft Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft overhead storage bin assemblies face challenges in maximizing storage capacity and efficiency within the confined spaces of commercial aircraft, while ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory constraints, particularly in distributing load and accommodating various luggage sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pivot bin assembly with a bucket that pivots outboard, featuring a clamshell structure with a strongback, side panels, and pivot mechanisms, including rotary dampers and assist springs, to optimize storage volume, reduce weight, and facilitate easy luggage handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the bucket pivots inboard (conventional design), then the structure is simpler, but the storage capacity and luggage accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional pivot direction from inboard to outboard. The bucket pivots about a vertical axis located outboard of the bin centerline, allowing the bucket to swing outward away from the aisle. This inversion enables the front edge of the bucket to extend further laterally when open, increasing storage capacity and improving luggage accessibility without compromising structural simplicity
2Volume of moving object
If the pivot axis is positioned to maximize storage volume, then more luggage can be stored, but the structural integrity and load distribution may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of the pivot axis, placing it outboard of the bin centerline rather than at the geometric center. This asymmetric configuration optimizes the bin interior volume by allowing the bucket to extend further into the available space. The strongback structure is specifically designed to accommodate this asymmetric pivot arrangement while maintaining structural integrity through optimized material distribution and reinforcement at critical stress points
3Ease of operation
If the bucket is designed to pivot fully open for maximum accessibility, then luggage loading is easier, but the control and stability during operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic pivot mechanism that allows the bucket to move through a controlled range of motion. The outboard pivot position enables the bucket to swing fully open for maximum accessibility during loading operations. The strongback and pivot mechanism work together to provide dynamic stability, controlling the bucket's movement and ensuring reliable operation throughout the full range of motion while maintaining operational stability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances storage capacity, reduces weight, and improves passenger comfort by allowing for efficient loading and unloading of luggage, while ensuring safe operation and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Implementation Method 1
pivot mechanisms, including rotary dampers
Implementation Method 2
assist springs
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
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AI summary
A dual pivot bin assembly comprising first and second aircraft storage bins, wherein the first and second aircraft storage bins are positioned adjacent one another; and an upper housing common to the first and second aircraft storage bins. Each of the first and second aircraft storage bins comprise a bucket pivotally connected to the upper housing that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior, wherein the bucket includes a bottom, a front edge and first and second opposing side walls extending upwardly from the bottom, wherein the bucket pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and a closed position. When the storage bin is installed in an aircraft, a first horizontal distance is defined between a first vertical line that extends through the pivot axis and the front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the closed position, and a second horizontal distance is defined between the first vertical line and the front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the open position. The first horizontal distance is greater than the second horizontal distance. A center side panel having first and second opposite sides is positioned between the first and second aircraft storage bins, and wherein a first clevis assembly of the first aircraft storage bin is secured to the first side of the center side panel, and wherein a second clevis assembly of the second aircraft storage bin is secured to the second side of the center side panel.