Pivotable Table Leg Connector for Tool-Free Installation and Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft seat tables are often difficult to remove due to their attachment via multiple bolts and screws, which can be obstructed by other seat components, leading to damage and replacement challenges.
Innovation Solution
A table leg with a pivotable connector and securing mechanism that allows easy installation and removal, eliminating the need for nuts and bolts, with a design that prevents over-tightening or incorrect installation, enabling quick replacement by switching between maintenance and 'in use' positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If table legs are attached via multiple bolts and screws, then secure attachment is achieved, but removal becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The table leg attachment system transitions from a static bolted connection to a dynamic pivotable connection with two distinct positions: a first position for secure attachment during use, and a second position for easy removal during maintenance. The connector allows the table leg to pivot between these positions, enabling quick state changes without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional components: a connector with a first engagement interface for secure attachment, a second engagement interface for positioning, and a pivotable connection point. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in either securing or enabling removal, resolving the contradiction between strong attachment and easy removal.
2Reliability
If multiple bolts and screws are used for attachment, then reliable connection is achieved, but access to fasteners is hampered by other seat components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from traditional bolts and screws and integrates it into a self-contained pivotable connector. The connector inherently provides both attachment security and accessibility through its pivot mechanism, eliminating the need for separate fasteners that are difficult to access.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector performs multiple functions automatically: it secures the table leg when pivoted to the first position, provides positioning stability when pivoted to the second position, and enables its own release through the pivot mechanism without requiring external tools or complex fastening operations.
3Strength
If traditional bolt and screw attachment is used, then strong connection is achieved, but replacement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system uses dynamic pivotable connections that can quickly transition between a first position (providing strong connection during use) and a second position (enabling rapid removal for replacement). This dynamic capability reduces replacement time from minutes or hours to seconds while maintaining connection strength during normal operation.
4Ease of operation
If simple connector design is used, then ease of installation is improved, but securing capability may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into specialized interfaces: a first engagement interface optimized for secure attachment with inherent positioning features, and a second engagement interface optimized for easy positioning and alignment. This segmentation allows each interface to excel at its specific function while working together to provide both ease of installation and strong securing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A table leg has a first connector for connecting the table leg in pivotable engagement with a seat such that the table leg is pivotable between first and second leg positions, and a mating part for restricting movement of the table leg relative to the seat. The mating part is for allowing removal of the table leg from the seat when the table leg is in the first leg position and for preventing removal of the table leg from the seat when the table leg is in the second leg position.