Seat track fitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat track fittings for aircraft seats are difficult to install and remove, and they often fail to withstand torque and floor deformation during conditions like crashes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a sleeve with a cylindrical threaded opening and a double effect post with inverse threads, allowing for simultaneous tightening of the post and track stud with a single tool turn, along with a break-over pivot stop feature to accommodate floor deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional seat track fittings are used, then the seat can be secured to the track, but the installation and removal process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic adjustable state through the turnbuckle assembly. The turnbuckle allows the fitting to dynamically adjust its length and positioning, enabling easy installation by simply inserting the fitting into the track opening without complex fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat track fitting is divided into separate functional components: the main fitting body, the turnbuckle assembly, and the securing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining secure attachment capability.
2Reliability
If traditional securement methods are used, then the seat can be attached to the track, but the fitting fails to withstand torque and floor deformation during crashes
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting utilizes parameter changes in the form of adjustable length through the turnbuckle mechanism. This allows the fitting to adapt to different track positions and deformation scenarios, maintaining secure attachment under varying load conditions including torque and crash forces while keeping installation simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is designed with pre-configured structural features that prepare it for load-bearing conditions before actual use. The robust construction and geometric design of the fitting body provide inherent strength to withstand torque and deformation forces from the outset, eliminating the need for complex post-installation adjustments or reinforcements.
3Productivity
If the fitting is designed for easy installation, then installation time is reduced, but the fitting may lack the structural integrity to withstand adverse conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The turnbuckle assembly is nested within the fitting structure, allowing compact storage and easy handling during installation. This nested configuration reduces the overall footprint and simplifies manipulation during quick installation while maintaining the full structural integrity and strength of the complete assembly when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features that automatically engage when the fitting is inserted into the track. The geometric design of the track opening and fitting body ensures proper alignment without manual intervention, while the securing mechanism automatically locks into place, providing both rapid installation and robust structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for installing seats in a passenger vehicle using seat tracks and seat fittings. The seat track fittings may include a sleeve (22) with a cylindrical threaded opening (24), a double effect post (26) with an external lower thread (28) and an internal threaded portion (36). The external lower thread is configured to cooperate with the cylindrical threaded opening of the sleeve. The seat track fitting also has a track stud (38) with a lower flange (46) that is configured to cooperate with a seat track (10) and an upper external thread (42) configured to cooperate with the internal threaded portion of the double effect post. The double effect post external lower thread and the track stud external thread have inverse hands, such that rotation of the double effect post tightens the post and the track stud simultaneously.