Sequentially extending and rotating table mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tray tables in aircraft, particularly in premium seating classes, fail to universally accommodate the diverse angular relationships between seating components, limiting their functionality and passenger convenience while deployed.
Innovation Solution
A sequentially extending and rotating tray table mechanism with a table top assembly mounted for linear motion on a table arm assembly, which is further mounted on a pivot assembly, incorporating first and second stops to control linear and rotational motions in a predetermined sequence, allowing for a wide range of table positions and facilitating seat egress without stowing the table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tray table is deployed forward of the passenger seat to provide adequate working space, then passenger comfort and usability are improved, but the risk of passenger entrapment and collision increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table mechanism transitions from a static fixed-position design to a dynamic multi-degree-of-freedom system that can extend and rotate to multiple positions. The table arm assembly includes linear motion capability along the arm and rotational capability at the pivot assembly, allowing the tray table to adapt its position dynamically while maintaining safety through controlled movement paths and mechanical stops.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional tray tables are stowed to allow seat egress, then passenger safety during exit is improved, but passenger convenience during dining and working is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table system is segmented into multiple functional components: a table top assembly, a table arm assembly with linear motion, and a pivot assembly with rotational motion. This segmentation allows different parts to perform different functions - the linear motion and rotation enable the table to be positioned in egress-clearing configurations while remaining deployed, separating the concerns of dining convenience and egress safety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tray table mechanism allows wide range of positions to accommodate diverse angular relationships, then adaptability to premium seating configurations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot assembly serves multiple functions: it provides rotational motion to accommodate various angular relationships between seating components, acts as a mounting point for the table arm assembly, and incorporates a second stop to limit rotational motion for safety. The mechanical coupling of first and second stops creates a unified control system that manages both linear and rotational motion sequences, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A passenger seat tray table mechanism that deploys by way of a controlled sequence of translational and rotational movements. Dependent on tray table mechanism position, the mechanism provides simultaneous unlocking of one motion and locking out of another motion in a predetermined mechanical sequence to avoid passenger entrapment and collisions with surrounding cabinetry of furniture. A wide range of table positions are achievable while all possible paths of table movement can be controlled.