Pivoting Cargo Lashing Elements for Flexible Aircraft Load Securing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cargo loading systems in aircraft lack flexibility in arranging diverse cargo loads, particularly with varying weights, and require additional fastening options for passenger seats, leading to inefficiencies in loading time and personnel requirements.

Innovation Solution

A lashing device with pivotable lashing elements, allowing multiple chains or straps to be secured to a single point without exceeding load limits, enhancing flexibility and load distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional lashing points with single lashing rings are used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the flexibility in arranging diverse cargo loads is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in cargo arrangementVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The single lashing ring is segmented into multiple lashing elements (at least two) that can be independently used or combined. Each lashing element can be individually attached to cargo items, allowing flexible arrangement of diverse loads while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lashing device with multiple lashing elements serves multiple functions: it can lash single heavy items using all elements together, or distribute loads across multiple lighter items using individual elements. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without requiring entirely different lashing systems for different cargo configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple lashing points are distributed throughout the cargo hold, then cargo arrangement flexibility is improved, but the number of lashing points required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecargo arrangement flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of lashing points
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Each lashing device with multiple lashing elements serves as a universal lashing point that can handle various cargo configurations. This reduces the total number of lashing points needed compared to conventional systems that require numerous distributed single-point lashing rings to achieve the same flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional lashing systems are used for diverse cargo weights, then the system is simple, but additional fastening options are required for passenger seats

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening optionsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lashing device with multiple independently usable lashing elements provides universal fastening capability that works for both cargo items and passenger seats. The same device structure serves multiple purposes, eliminating the need for separate fastening systems while maintaining relative simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution increases flexibility in cargo arrangement, reduces loading time, and allows for efficient use of space while maintaining structural integrity, meeting load limits without additional testing.

Implementation Method 1

The at least two lashing elements are mounted on the main body so as to be pivotable about a pivot axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivotable mounting: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP4512714B1Lashing device for a cargo loading system of a means of transport and aircraft
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 AIRBUS DEFENCE & SPACE GMBH
  • EP4512714B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4512714B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4512714B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides a lashing device (1) for a cargo loading system of a means of transport, in particular an aircraft, comprising: a main body (2) for load bearing and securing to a supporting structure (3); and at least two lashing elements (4a, 4b) for lashing loads or goods, wherein the at least two lashing elements (4a, 4b) are mounted on the main body (2) so as to be pivotable about a pivot axis (X) and are designed to be lashable in each case individually or as a unit. The present invention furthermore provides an aircraft (100) having a lashing device (1) of this type.