Panel Attachment Mechanism for Low Profile Removal in Vehicle Interiors
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicles, panels connected to support structures within tight spaces, such as aircraft interiors, pose challenges for technicians to access components due to limited movement range, making it difficult to disconnect and reconnect panels efficiently in small access spaces.
Innovation Solution
The assembly includes a panel with a latch, a pull member, and a translating hinge that allows for pivoting and translational movement between a monument wall and the support structure, enabling easy connection and disconnection without tools, with the hinge configured to pivot within a 0°-10° range to maintain access and repositioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the panel is mounted close to the monument wall to maximize interior space, then the interior space utilization is improved, but the access space for technicians to disconnect and reconnect the panel becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a translating hinge mechanism that allows the panel to dynamically change its position and orientation. The hinge enables the panel to translate (move linearly) and pivot (rotate) within a limited angular range (0°-10°), transforming a static mounting system into a dynamic one that can adapt to the tight space constraints while maintaining accessibility for technicians.
2Shape
If the panel is positioned in close proximity to the monument wall, then the aesthetic appearance and space efficiency are improved, but the technician's ability to access components behind the panel is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the panel assembly into separable components: the panel itself, the translating hinge mechanism, and the latch system. This segmentation allows the panel to be independently removed from the support structure by disengaging the latch and using the hinge for controlled movement, enabling technicians to access components behind the panel without disturbing the overall interior configuration or aesthetic appearance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the panel uses a fixed mounting system for secure attachment, then the structural stability is improved, but the ability to quickly disconnect and reconnect the panel without tools is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism through the latch and translating hinge system. The latch can be easily engaged and disengaged by the technician without requiring tools, and the translating hinge automatically guides the panel into the correct position during reattachment. This self-service design maintains secure attachment stability while significantly reducing the time and complexity of panel disconnection and reconnection operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly configured to be mounted within an interior of a vehicle. The assembly includes a monument wall configured to be mounted in the interior of the vehicle. A panel is configured to attach to a support structure above the monument wall with the panel having a first edge and a second edge. A latch configured to be mounted to the panel between the first edge and the second edge. A pull member is attached to the panel and comprises an elongated member attached to the latch and a handle. A translating hinge is configured to be mounted to the second edge of the panel to provide for translating and pivoting movement of the panel within an access area between the monument wall and the support structure to connect and disconnect the panel from the support structure.