Individually Retractable Cargo Restraints for Flexible Load Configurations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo restraint systems in aircraft limit the number of available cargo load configurations by gang-actuating multiple restraints, preventing individual restraints from being selectively rotated to a stowed position.
Innovation Solution
A cargo restraint system featuring a restraint mechanism with a plunger and torsion spring, allowing individual restraints to be actuated independently or in groups, enabling selective rotation between raised and stowed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple restraints are gang-actuated from a single point, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because individual restraints cannot be selectively positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is segmented into multiple independently controllable units. Each restraint assembly (102, 104, 106) can be individually actuated between raised and stowed positions, allowing selective positioning while maintaining group actuation capability through the common actuator shaft (150).
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static gang-actuated mechanism to a dynamic system where restraints can be selectively positioned. The plunger mechanism (170) with engagement and disengagement states enables each restraint to be dynamically controlled independently or as part of a group, providing adaptability while maintaining ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual restraints are made selectively retractable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms required
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator shaft (150) and plunger mechanism (170) serve multiple functions: they enable both individual restraint actuation and group actuation, provide engagement/disengagement control, and maintain structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Device complexity
If restraints are gang-actuated, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to limited cargo load configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is divided into independently controllable segments (restraint assemblies 102, 104, 106), each with its own plunger mechanism (170). This segmentation allows different combinations of restraints to be positioned according to specific cargo configurations, increasing productivity by enabling multiple cargo load arrangements without requiring completely different restraint systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If individual restraint control is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to increased control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges individual restraint control capability with group actuation functionality through the common actuator shaft (150) and plunger mechanism (170). Operators can control restraints individually by selectively engaging/disengaging plungers, or actuate all restraints simultaneously through the shared actuator shaft, maintaining ease of operation while providing adaptability.
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
This solution allows for increased flexibility in cargo load configurations by enabling individual restraint actuation, while maintaining the ability to actuate restraints as a group from a single point.
Implementation Method 1
A plunger torsion spring may be configured to apply a first biasing load to the plunger lever
Implementation Method 2
A compression spring may be configured to bias a first end of the plunger away from an upper surface of the head
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo restraint system may comprise a restraint and an actuator shaft configured to rotate the restraint between a raised position and a stowed position. The restraint may include a head configured to rotate about an axis and a plunger configured to translate between an engaged state and a disengaged state. When the plunger is in the engaged state, the head is rotationally coupled to the actuator shaft. When the plunger is in the disengaged state, the head can rotate independently of the actuator shaft.