Profile Rail Mounting System with Single-Actuation Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reconfiguring a cabin layout in transportation means, such as an aircraft, requires significant effort to release and relock multiple passenger seats and devices due to the need to manually operate multiple locking devices on profile rails.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system with a profile rail and locking device that includes an actuating element and clamping body, allowing for simultaneous interlocking or releasing of multiple locking devices with a single actuation, reducing manual effort through a mechanical system with a cam or toothed rail mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple locking devices are used to mount objects on profile rails, then the mounting reliability is improved, but the effort and time required for reconfiguration increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking devices are merged into a single integrated locking unit that can be actuated by one operator. The locking unit comprises multiple locking elements that can simultaneously engage with or disengage from the profile rail, allowing all mounting points to be secured or released in a single operation rather than requiring separate manual operations for each locking device.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit is designed as a multi-functional device that can simultaneously perform multiple locking and unlocking operations across different mounting positions. A single actuating mechanism controls several locking elements, enabling the system to handle both security (reliability) and efficiency (reconfiguration speed) requirements through one universal interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking devices are distributed along the profile rail, then the adaptability for different mounting positions is improved, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit combines multiple distributed locking elements into a single operational entity. While the locking elements remain spatially distributed along the profile rail to provide versatile mounting options, they are mechanically linked through a common actuating mechanism, allowing all elements to be controlled simultaneously by one operator rather than requiring separate operations for each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking unit is segmented into multiple independent locking elements that can be positioned at different locations along the profile rail, providing adaptability for various mounting configurations. Each segment retains its individual locking function while being part of a coordinated system that can be actuated as a whole, balancing positional flexibility with operational simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If a mechanical linkage system is used to connect multiple locking devices, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical linkage system acts as an intermediary between the operator's single actuating action and the multiple locking elements. The linkage mechanism translates one input motion into coordinated movements of several locking components, providing ease of operation while managing complexity through a well-defined mechanical transmission path that is integrated into the locking unit structure.
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
Enables easy and efficient locking and unlocking of objects in transportation means by allowing a single actuation to control multiple locking devices, reducing the effort required for reconfiguring cabin layouts.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one clamping body is realized in such a way that it exerts a compressive force, which results in the locking body being interlocked with the profile rail, upon a component of the locking device during a motion of the actuating element
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for objects in a transportation system includes a profile rail, at least one locking device with a base body that is bringable in surface contact with a supporting surface of the profile rail and at least one locking body which is interlockable with the profile rail, as well as an actuating device with an actuating element that extends parallel to the profile rail and a clamping body that is connected to the actuating element. The clamping body is realized in such a way that it exerts a compressive force, which results in the locking body being interlocked, upon a component of the locking device during a motion of the actuating element in a first direction parallel to the profile rail and releases the interlock during a motion of the actuating element in a second, opposite direction.