Seat Rail Marking Devices for Precise Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The precise positioning and adjustment of seat rows in transportation vehicle cabins, particularly in larger aircraft, are cumbersome due to the need for ergonomic handling of measuring devices on the floor, which complicates the process and disrupts routine operations.
Innovation Solution
A seat rail system with marking devices that provide optical and haptic feedback for precise positioning, allowing for simplified adjustment of seat distances without the need for cumbersome measuring devices, and includes holding blocks and rail covers to prevent incorrect positioning and ensure unambiguous alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If measuring devices are used to precisely measure seat distances on the floor, then positioning precision is improved, but operational complexity and ergonomics deteriorate due to cumbersome handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces marking devices as intermediaries between the seat rail system and the user. These marking devices provide visual and tactile references that eliminate the need for complex measuring devices on the floor. The markings serve as a mediator that translates precise positioning requirements into simple, ergonomic alignment tasks for cabin personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measuring devices with an optical/tactile marking system. Instead of using physical measuring tools that require kneeling and precise handling on the floor, the system uses visual markings and tactile feedback from the rail itself to guide positioning, substituting a complex mechanical measurement process with a simpler alignment process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple raster openings are available for holding devices, then adaptability is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates due to ambiguity in selecting correct positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different types of markings for different functions: first markings indicate preferred positions for holding devices, while second markings indicate prohibited positions. This local differentiation of marking types allows the system to simultaneously provide adaptability (multiple positions available) and precision (clear guidance on which positions to use).
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on the user to determine correct positions from multiple identical raster openings, the system inverts the approach by actively marking the correct positions on the rail itself. The markings are placed directly on the rail at the appropriate locations, reversing the traditional approach where the user must calculate or measure positions.
3Device complexity
If manual adjustment of seat rows is performed without guidance, then device complexity is reduced, but time consumption increases due to trial and error positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-marking the correct positions on the seat rail during manufacturing or installation. The markings are prepared in advance at the precise locations where holding devices should be positioned, eliminating the need for trial and error during actual seat reconfiguration operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The marking system provides immediate visual and tactile feedback to the user during the positioning process. When a holding device aligns with the markings, the user receives direct feedback that the correct position has been reached, eliminating the need for additional measuring steps or trial and error adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle cabin seat rail system includes a seat rail having a top side having a plurality of raster openings and mechanically couplable with a cabin floor, a plurality of holding devices positionable on the top side, each being selectively engageable with at least one first raster opening or at least one second raster opening for arresting the holding device and configured for holding an object on the seat rail, and a plurality of marking devices couplable with the seat rail, and configured for optically or mechanically indicating approaching of a first position on the seat rail corresponding to the first raster opening of a respective holding device and of a second position of the same holding device corresponding to the second raster opening, in relation to another object arrested on the seat rail, to prevent an arresting of the holding device on the seat rail on other positions.