Remote Cargo Locking Mechanism for Double-Row Aircraft Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for securing cargo in aircraft cargo holds, particularly in smaller aircraft, are inefficient and limit the ability to load cargo in multiple rows due to the need for manual operation that requires space between the cargo and the aircraft's interior, restricting the utilization of smaller cargo decks.
Innovation Solution
A locking system with remotely actuated locking devices, utilizing an actuating unit and transmission section to operate locking elements from a transverse position, allowing simultaneous operation of multiple locking elements, including electric actuation options, and incorporating a monitoring system to ensure secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation of locking devices is used, then the locking system is simple in structure, but the cargo deck utilization is limited and loading time increases
Solution Approach 1:
A transmission mechanism serves as an intermediary between the actuating unit and the locking elements. This transmission mechanism can be manual (lever, crank, or foot-operated) or automated (electric motor), allowing the operator to control multiple locking elements from a single location without requiring direct access to each locking device along the cargo hold.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating unit is designed to control multiple locking elements simultaneously or sequentially through the transmission mechanism. This single actuating unit performs the function of operating multiple locking devices that would otherwise require separate manual operations, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining relatively simple structure.
2Productivity
If double-row loading is implemented in smaller aircraft, then cargo deck utilization improves, but operator access to locking devices becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism extends the operational reach in the longitudinal direction of the aircraft. By using a transmission mechanism that can reach along the cargo hold, the actuating unit can control locking devices at different positions along the length of the cargo hold, effectively adding operational capability in the longitudinal dimension while maintaining access from a convenient location.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the operator's accessible location and the locking devices positioned along the cargo hold. This allows double-row loading configurations in smaller aircraft by enabling remote operation of locking devices that would otherwise be inaccessible to manual operators.
3Productivity
If multiple locking elements are operated simultaneously, then loading efficiency increases, but the actuating device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking elements are merged into a single operational sequence through the transmission mechanism. The actuating unit controls multiple locking elements either simultaneously or in a coordinated sequence, combining what would otherwise be multiple separate operations into a single integrated action, thereby increasing loading efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism enables periodic or sequential activation of multiple locking elements. The actuating unit can cycle through different locking elements in a controlled sequence, allowing multiple locking actions to be performed in a coordinated manner rather than requiring complex parallel control systems for each locking element.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking system (10) for securing at least one transport unit for cargo items, in particular a cargo pallet, in an aircraft, comprising: - several locking devices (11, 11') each with at least one locking element (12, 12') for securing and releasing the transport unit at at least one predetermined position, wherein the locking element (12) is displaceable in a displacement direction (v) between a fixing position and a release position;and - at least one actuating device (13) for remotely actuating at least one of the locking devices (11), wherein the actuating device (13) has at least one actuating unit (14) for initiating an actuating movement and at least one sliding unit (15) for displacing the locking element (12), wherein the actuating unit (14) is connected to the sliding unit (15) by at least one transmission section (16) extending transversely to the displacement direction (v), wherein the sliding unit (15) is mechanically coupled to the locking element (12) of the locking device (11) in order to transmit the actuating movement and to move the locking element (12) in the displacement direction (v) between the locking and unlocking positions.