Pivotable Berth Modules for Aircraft Overhead Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft interior configurations inefficiently utilize overhead space due to the rigid connection of crew rest areas, which limits their size and location, causing adverse impacts during fuselage deformation in motion.
Innovation Solution
An overhead space utilization device featuring berth modules with pivotable coupling to the fuselage, including intermediate support members and coupling members that allow the berths to move with the fuselage, preventing rigid reactions and allowing for flexible expansion and deformation, thereby optimizing space use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If crew rest areas are raised in the aircraft fuselage to utilize overhead space, then space utilization is improved, but the stiff connection causes adverse impacts when the aircraft fuselage deforms or bends in motion
Solution Approach 1:
The berth module employs a dynamic coupling mechanism with pivotable connections at multiple points (first and second coupling locations on each berth, plus intermediate support members) that allow the berth to move relative to the fuselage. This dynamic connection enables the berth to accommodate fuselage deformation through controlled movement rather than rigid resistance, resolving the contradiction between space utilization and deformation tolerance.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connections are used to secure berths to the fuselage, then structural stability is improved, but the berths cannot accommodate fuselage deformation and create adverse reactions
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into multiple independent pivotable connections (first coupling locations, second coupling locations, and intermediate support members) rather than a single rigid connection. This segmentation allows each connection point to independently accommodate movement, maintaining overall berth stability while enabling adaptation to fuselage deformation through distributed flexibility.
3Productivity
If overhead space is converted to usable quarters, then space efficiency is improved, but the fixed configuration limits flexibility during aircraft motion
Solution Approach 1:
The berth module is designed with dynamic pivotable couplings that enable it to move and adapt its configuration in response to aircraft motion and fuselage deformation. This dynamic design maintains high space efficiency by utilizing overhead volume while providing the flexibility needed during aircraft operation, resolving the contradiction between fixed space utilization and operational flexibility.
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
The device effectively converts overhead space into usable quarters while mitigating fuselage deformation, providing a comfortable and flexible space utilization solution that prevents adverse moments and bending, allowing for expansion and contraction of the berth modules.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second intermediate support members each has a first end pivotably coupled to the corresponding one of the first and second berth portions, and a second end configured to be pivotably coupled to the fuselage
Implementation Method 2
The first and second coupling members are configured to pivotably couple the second berth portions to the fuselage
Data Source
AI summary
One particular overhead space utilization device, adapted for installation in a hull structure, incorporates at least one berth module with first and second berth portions, first and second intermediate support members, and first and second coupling members. Each berth module has two opposing berth members with a walkway therebetween. The first and second intermediate support members each has a first end pivotably coupled to the corresponding one of the first and second berth portions, and a second end configured to be pivotably coupled to the hull structure. The first and second coupling members are configured to pivotably couple the second berth portions to the hull structure. The first and second coupling members and the second berth portions are configured to be positioned outboard of the first berth portion.