Cabin Trolley Interface with Guided Locking for Utility Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for connecting cabin trolleys in vehicles require cumbersome and temporary connections for water and electricity, involving external hoses and cables that need to be manually attached and stowed, which is inefficient and potentially damaging.
Innovation Solution
An interface system comprising complementary first and second interface devices that align and lock securely, allowing for quick and reliable connections between trolleys and vehicle monuments for water and electricity, using guide elements and locking mechanisms to facilitate alignment and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external hoses or cables are used to connect trolleys to supply ports, then water and electricity can be supplied to trolleys, but the connection process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two separate interface devices: a first interface device mounted on the monument (fixed structure) and a second interface device mounted on the trolley (mobile unit). Each interface device contains corresponding electrical ports and water ports that connect when the trolley is positioned at the monument, eliminating the need for manual hose and cable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface devices are designed to automatically connect when the trolley is pushed to the monument. The complementary designs of the first and second interface devices enable self-alignment and automatic engagement of electrical and water ports without requiring manual attachment operations.
2Reliability
If manual attachment of external hoses and cables is used, then connections can be made, but the process requires manual operation and potential damage to connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The interface devices are pre-positioned and pre-aligned in their respective mounting locations. The first interface device is fixed to the monument at a specific height and position, while the second interface device is mounted on the trolley at corresponding height and position, ensuring that when the trolley arrives at the monument, the ports are already aligned for connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface devices serve as intermediary components between the monument's supply sources and the trolley's consumption devices. The electrical ports and water ports in the interface devices provide protected, standardized connection points that eliminate direct exposure of vulnerable connectors to manual handling and environmental damage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated ports in the cabin are used, then water and electricity supply is available, but the ports require mechanical preparation and are not intended for temporary use
Solution Approach 1:
The interface devices provide universal connection capability that serves both permanent monument installations and mobile trolley units. The same interface design can be used across multiple monuments and trolleys within the vehicle, creating a standardized system that handles both temporary and semi-permanent connections efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface system for cabin trolleys for a vehicle includes a first interface device attachable to a monument, second interface device attachable to a cabin trolley, the first interface device including a first electrical port, first hot water port and first cold water port, a first guide element and first locking element, the second interface device including a second electrical port, second hot water port and second cold water port, a second guide element and second locking element, the first interface device and second interface device complementary to each other, so the first electrical port, first hot water port and first cold water port, and second electrical port, second hot water port and second cold water port connect to each other, the first guide element and second guide element engageable to guide the interface devices into connecting position, and the locking elements can releasably lock to arrest the interface devices.