Segmented Tray Table Layout for Clearer Seat-Row Passage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tray tables in vehicles obstruct passage during ingress and egress due to their fixed, large surface area, which is inconvenient for passengers needing to access items or exit their seats.
Innovation Solution
A configurable tray table design featuring pivotally connected segments that allow for multiple configurations, including a stowed, full, small, and folded position, enabling flexible use of space and accommodating various item orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional fixed tray table is deployed, then passengers have a stable surface for eating and working, but the tray table obstructs passage during ingress and egress of seat rows
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table is divided into multiple segments that can be independently configured. The first segment is pivotally connected to the support assembly, and the second segment is pivotally connected to the first segment, allowing each segment to be positioned independently to balance usability and passage clearance
Solution Approach 2:
The tray table transitions from a fixed, static structure to a dynamic, multi-position structure. The segments can be rotated between stowed, deployed, and intermediate positions, allowing the tray table to adapt its configuration based on whether passage or usability is the priority
2Area of stationary object
If a tray table is deployed in a horizontal position, then passengers have adequate surface area for items, but there is no room for a person to pass between the tray table and the passenger using it
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table surface is segmented into multiple sections that can be independently positioned. When passage is needed, the segments can be rotated to create gaps between them and between the tray table and the passenger, maintaining adequate surface area when deployed while clearing the passage path
Solution Approach 2:
The tray table segments can rotate out of the horizontal plane into intermediate or elevated positions, utilizing the vertical dimension to maintain surface area availability while clearing the horizontal passage space between seat rows
3Adaptability or versatility
If a passenger needs to exit the seat row during another passenger's use of the tray table, then the exiting passenger can access restrooms or overhead bins, but the tray table user must pick up items and stow the tray table
Solution Approach 1:
The tray table segments can be dynamically reconfigured during passenger movement. The user can rotate segments to intermediate positions that maintain some usability while clearing the passage, or quickly stow only the necessary segments rather than the entire tray table
Solution Approach 2:
Individual segments can be independently positioned or stowed while leaving other segments deployed, allowing passengers to maintain partial tray table functionality while clearing passage for others
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
The configurable tray table maximizes space for passenger movement while providing adequate surface area for items, enhancing usability and convenience by allowing partial or full table deployment based on needs, and securely holding devices at an inclined angle.
Implementation Method 1
The tray rail is configured to rotate to a position substantially coplanar with the frame to a raised position and to rotate downward from the raised position to a lowered position
Implementation Method 2
A first tray table segment is pivotally connected to a second tray table segment along a first hinged longitudinal edge of the second tray table segment. A third tray table segment is pivotally connected to the second tray table segment along a second hinged longitudinal edge
Data Source
AI summary
Methods provide for a configurable tray table. According to aspects of the disclosure, a tray rail is rotatable connected to a frame of a support assembly. Three tray table segments create a tray assembly having a multi-planar configuration and is coupled to the tray rail. A first tray table segment is pivotally connected to a second tray table segment via a first hinged longitudinal edge of the second tray table segment. A third tray table segment is pivotally connected to the second tray table segment along a second hinged longitudinal edge that is parallel to the first hinged longitudinal edge.