Powered Stowage Bin Assemblies for Aircraft Cabin

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manually closing overhead stowage bins in commercial aircraft is physically taxing due to their weight and the need for multiple bins to be secured before departure, lacking an efficient and automatic closure mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A powered stowage bin assembly with a motor-driven bin actuator system that moves the pivot bin from an open to a closed position, utilizing a motion link and sensors for automatic operation, reducing manual effort and enhancing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual closure of stowage bins is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to physical strain on flight attendants

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of closing stowage binsVSAvoidcomplexity of closure mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stowage bin assembly performs closure automatically without requiring manual intervention. The motor-driven bin actuator system activates through an engagement button, causing the pivot bin to move from open to closed position autonomously, eliminating the need for flight attendants to physically close each bin manually

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical closure action is replaced with an automated motor-driven system. The bin actuator, powered by a motor and controlled through a motion link mechanism, substitutes human physical effort with an automated electromechanical system that closes the pivot bin

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If multiple stowage bins are closed manually before departure, then reliability of stowage closure is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of closing stowage binsVSAvoidreliability of stowage closure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Each stowage bin assembly autonomously closes itself through the motor-driven actuator system when activated, enabling rapid sequential closure of multiple bins without requiring flight attendants to manually secure each one, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining reliable closure through the automated latch mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement button is positioned to be easily accessible and can be activated in advance of departure. The automated system allows flight attendants to initiate closure of multiple bins quickly and systematically, ensuring all bins are secured before departure without the time-consuming manual operation previously required

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If motor-driven automatic closure system is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to addition of motor and actuator components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of bin closureVSAvoidcomplexity of bin drive system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The motor-driven bin actuator system serves multiple functions: it closes the pivot bin automatically, engages the latch mechanism, and can be controlled through a simple engagement button interface. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanisms into a single integrated system, managing complexity while providing automated operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The motion link acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates motor rotation into the linear motion required to push the pivot bin from open to closed position. This intermediary component simplifies the control architecture by providing a direct mechanical connection between the motor actuator and the bin, managing system complexity through functional decomposition

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 allows for easy and quick automatic closure of stowage bins, reducing physical strain on flight attendants and improving operational efficiency by leveraging the bin drive system's energy efficiency and leverage advantage.

Implementation Method 1

The motor is configured move the bin actuator via the motion link to push the pivot bin from the open position to the closed position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The motion link may extend over an arcuate path

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical advantage through arcuate motion: Mechanical Advantage

Implementation Method 3

The stowage bin assembly may include a latch that securely latches the pivot bin in the closed position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical latching: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS10889376B2Powered stowage bin assemblies

Publication Date: 2021.01.12 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

A stowage bin assembly is configured to be disposed within an interior cabin of a vehicle. The stowage bin assembly includes a strongback, and a pivot bin moveably coupled to the strongback. The pivot bin is configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position. A bin drive system is configured to move the pivot bin from the open position to the closed position. The bin drive system includes a motor operatively coupled to a bin actuator through a motion link. The motor is configured move the bin actuator via the motion link to push the pivot bin from the open position to the closed position.