Aircraft Seat Fitting with Cam-Actuated Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for securing objects, such as aircraft seats, on elongated tracks lack efficient mechanisms for positive adjustable positioning that can be actuated with a single tool and provide reliable locking and visual indication of the locked status.
Innovation Solution
The proposed system includes a base frame with vertically and horizontally oriented openings, a rod and plunger for vertical motion, cams and cam followers for clamping force, coil springs for upward bias, and a cap for locking indication, allowing a single turn of a tool to lock or unlock the assembly, which interacts with the track to prevent movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fittings with multiple components (plungers, buttons, washers, lock nuts) are used to secure objects on tracks, then reliable locking is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate locking components (plungers, buttons, washers, lock nuts) into a single integrated fitting assembly that interfaces with the track through one unified structure, reducing the number of parts while maintaining locking reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting assembly is designed to perform multiple functions (locking, positioning, and visual indication) through a single integrated mechanism that interacts with the track in one standardized interface, eliminating the need for multiple specialized components
2Ease of operation
If multiple tools or complex adjustment mechanisms are used for positioning, then adjustable positioning is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting assembly incorporates a self-indicating mechanism where the position of the fitting relative to the track automatically provides visual feedback about the locked status, eliminating the need for separate indicators or complex adjustment procedures
3Ease of operation
If visual indication of locked status is added, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting assembly incorporates a self-indicating mechanism where the position of the fitting relative to the track automatically provides visual feedback about the locked status, eliminating the need for separate indicators or complex adjustment procedures
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 system enables secure, adjustable positioning of objects with minimal space constraints, reducing vertical motion and providing a visual indication of the locked status, ensuring reliable fixation with a single tool operation.
Implementation Method 1
Other components of exemplary assemblies of the invention may be coil springs and caps. Positioning a coil spring between the base frame and rod provides upward bias to the rod and plunger, ensuring they are fully retracted when the assembly is unlocked
Implementation Method 2
A cam follower may be attached to the rod through one or a series of disc springs and transmit vertical force from a cam to the rod and plunger, ultimately supplying clamping force against the track
Implementation Method 3
A cam follower may be attached to the rod through one or a series of disc springs and transmit vertical force from a cam to the rod and plunger
Data Source
AI summary
Fitting systems and assemblies are detailed. The assemblies are designed principally (although not necessarily exclusively) for use with aircraft seats and supply positive adjustable positioning of a seat or other object, typically actuated with a single turn (or less) of a single tool.