Single-column Trash Compactor with Internal Motor and Telescopic Screw
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft trash compactors face challenges in meeting aeronautical regulations due to weight and space constraints, with existing hydraulic systems being complex, heavy, and requiring frequent maintenance, while electromechanical solutions like U.S. Pat. No. 7,089,852 have issues with greasing and telescopic screw protection.
Innovation Solution
A low-weight, modular, single-column electromechanical trash compactor using a recirculating ball screw system with a motor housed inside the screw, allowing for high compressive force and efficient operation within compact spaces, integrated with a trolley for easy maintenance and space optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If hydraulic systems are used for trash compaction, then compaction force is sufficient, but weight and volume increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic system with an electromechanical system consisting of a motor and telescopic screw mechanism. This substitution eliminates hydraulic fluid, pumps, and valves, significantly reducing weight while maintaining sufficient compaction force through the mechanical advantage of the screw mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent explicitly eliminates hydraulic systems in favor of an electromechanical alternative. The removal of pressurized oil-hydraulic components reduces weight and eliminates the associated complexity and maintenance requirements while achieving the necessary compaction force through electrical motor drive.
2Force
If hydraulic systems are used for trash compaction, then compaction force is sufficient, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hydraulic systems with a simpler electromechanical system. The motor-driven telescopic screw mechanism eliminates the need for hydraulic pumps, reservoirs, valves, and fluid management systems, significantly reducing structural complexity and ease of maintenance.
3Weight of moving object
If telescopic screw system is used, then weight is reduced, but maintenance requirements increase due to greasing needs
Solution Approach 1:
The recirculating ball screw system incorporates built-in lubrication through grease fittings accessible during normal operation. The system allows operators to replenish grease without removing components from the aircraft, enabling self-maintenance and eliminating the need for specialized service interventions.
4Volume of moving object
If compact space is utilized for compactor, then space efficiency is improved, but access for maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The compactor is designed as a removable module that can be extracted from the aircraft compartment as a complete unit. This allows maintenance personnel to access and service the entire compactor assembly outside the confined space, combining compact installation with easy maintenance through modular extraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic screw mechanism incorporates grease fittings that are accessible during normal operation within the compartment. Operators can perform routine lubrication maintenance without removing the compactor from its installed position, enabling self-service maintenance in the confined space.
5Weight of moving object
If recirculating ball screw system is used, then weight is reduced and efficiency is improved, but protection from dirt becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs protective covers or bellows that enclose the telescopic screw mechanism. These flexible protective elements shield the ball screw components from dirt and contamination while allowing the mechanism to extend and retract, maintaining protection without compromising the weight advantages of the electromechanical system.
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 solution provides a compact, lightweight, and efficient trash compactor that meets aeronautical regulations, reducing maintenance needs, eliminating greasing requirements, and ensuring reliable operation with self-cleaning covers and reduced wear, suitable for various transportation means and applications.
Implementation Method 1
a multiple-stage telescopic system with recirculating ball screws which is housed inside a jacket or cover
Implementation Method 2
recirculating ball screws which consist essentially of threaded screws which are connected to sleeves inside which a train of balls is circulated
Implementation Method 3
operated by a motor housed inside screw
Data Source
AI summary
An electromechanical, modular, single-column, trash compactor with a particularly small size and low weight. In particular, a trash compaction device which can be used on-board aircraft, trains, ships and/or for civil applications and generally in all the locations and/or modes of transportation where the auxiliary service equipment must occupy as little space as possible. The compaction device is formed by a system of hollow telescopic screws (5,6), for example of the recirculating ball type, operated by a motor (2) housed inside the said screws (5,6). The compactor may be conveniently installed in compartments, which are fixed or movable on wheels, such as a trolley, so as to allow easy displacement within the mode of transportation and insertion within the appropriate working spaces.