US20080035792A1 - Deployable receptacle - Google Patents
Deployable receptacle Download PDFInfo
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- US20080035792A1 US20080035792A1 US11/533,600 US53360006A US2008035792A1 US 20080035792 A1 US20080035792 A1 US 20080035792A1 US 53360006 A US53360006 A US 53360006A US 2008035792 A1 US2008035792 A1 US 2008035792A1
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- Prior art keywords
- tray
- end portion
- coupled
- deploying
- deployable
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
- B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENTS OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
- B64D11/00—Passenger or crew accommodation; Flight-deck installations not otherwise provided for
- B64D11/04—Galleys
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
- B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENTS OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
- B64D11/00—Passenger or crew accommodation; Flight-deck installations not otherwise provided for
- B64D11/0007—Devices specially adapted for food or beverage distribution services
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to aircrafts, and more particularly to an integrated transport system and method for moving an object within a bi-level cabin.
- Aircraft manufacturers are well known for producing aircrafts having constructions that maximize the use of space within those aircrafts.
- certain commercial airplanes can have automated elevator systems for vertically moving galley carts between a main deck galley and a lower lobe of the airplane.
- the galley carts can be stored in the lower lobe.
- the main-deck passenger cabin can be sized larger than it would otherwise have been if those carts were stored on the main deck.
- This construction is beneficial because it can allow the manufacturer to increase the number of passenger seats, maintain the number of seats while increasing the size of the passenger seats, increase the room within which the passengers and the crewmembers can move about the aircraft, or provide various other advantages.
- a typical galley cart can weigh a substantially high amount and therefore can be somewhat cumbersome to store, retrieve, or otherwise manipulate within an aircraft.
- This substantially high weight typically is attributed to the meals, beverages, trash, and various other items carried by the cart, as well as the cart itself.
- a typical galley cart can weigh up to about 250 pounds or more.
- One embodiment of the present invention is an integrated transport system for moving an object in an aircraft between a main cabin and an overhead cabin via a shaft in connection therebetween.
- This integrated transport system includes a single-unit gantry-lift device with an object carrier for receiving the object.
- This object carrier has one or more restraint members for securing the object in the object carrier and preventing the object from tipping.
- the single-unit gantry-lift device further includes a lift device for moving the object carrier generally along a longitudinal axis of the shaft.
- the single-unit-gantry-lift device also includes a gantry device for moving the object carrier generally along a first axis of the overhead cabin and/or a second axis, which is disposed generally perpendicular to the first axis.
- One advantage of the invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can transfer a substantially heavy object with a substantially low risk of the object tipping and falling.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can quickly and easily move an object within an aircraft.
- Yet another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided with a simple construction for providing ease of manufacture, minimizing the costs associated therewith, and facilitating the installation of the integrated transport system.
- Still another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can increase the available space on a main deck of an aircraft.
- Yet another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can preserve the payload capacity of a lower lobe or cargo bay of an aircraft.
- Still another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can be manually operated for eliminating the power requirements, maintenance costs, and likelihood of malfunctions, which are typically associated with automated transport systems.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aircraft having a bi-level galley module with an integrated transport system, according to one embodiment of the claimed invention
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bi-level galley module shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an overhead sub-module of the bi-level galley module shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a main-deck sub-module of the bi-level galley module shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIGS. 4A-4D are partially cutaway perspective views of the bi-level galley module shown in FIG. 2 , sequentially illustrating the integrated transport system moving a galley cart from the main-deck sub-module to the overhead sub-module for storage therein;
- FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a gantry device of the integrated transport system, shown in FIGS. 4A-4D ;
- FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of a gantry device of the integrated transport system, shown in FIGS. 4A-4D , according to another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the cart carrier, shown in FIGS. 4A-4D , with an unloading mechanism for unloading the galley cart, according to one advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention
- FIG. 7 is a partially cutaway plan view of the unloading mechanism shown in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a cutaway view of the unloading mechanism shown in FIG. 7 , as taken along line 8 - 8 ;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cart carrier, shown in FIGS. 4A-4D , and an unloading mechanism for unloading the galley cart from the cart carrier, according to another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the cart carrier, shown in FIGS. 4A-4D , with an unloading mechanism for unloading the galley cart, according to still another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention
- FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a deployable receptacle for storing the galley cart in the storage area of the overhead sub-module shown in FIGS. 4A-4D ;
- FIG. 11B is an exploded view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIG. 11A ;
- FIG. 12 is a cutaway perspective view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B , illustrating the deployable receptacle moving the galley cart from the receptacle to the cart carrier;
- FIG. 13 is a side view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B , illustrating the deployable cart being movable between a storing position and a deploying position;
- FIG. 14A is a cutaway view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIG. 13 , as taken within circle 14 A, illustrating a pivotal coupling for moving the deployable receptacle between the storing position and the deploying position;
- FIG. 14B is a cutaway view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIG. 14A , illustrating the pivotal coupling according to another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention
- FIG. 14C is a cutaway view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIG. 14A , illustrating the pivotal coupling according to yet another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention
- FIG. 15 is a cutaway perspective view of the overhead sub-module with a series of the deployable receptacles shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B ;
- FIG. 16 is a front view of the deployable receptacle shown in FIG. 11A with a galley cart supported thereon;
- FIG. 17 is a logic flow diagram illustrating a method for operating the integrated transport system shown in FIG. 4A-4D .
- the same reference numerals are utilized for designating the same or similar components in the various views.
- the illustrated embodiments described herein employ features where the context permits, e.g. when a specific result or advantage of the claimed invention is desired.
- the embodiments described herein implement an integrated transport system for moving a galley cart between an overhead sub-module and a main-deck sub-module of a bi-level galley module that is installed in an aircraft.
- the integrated transport system can be utilized for various other suitable vehicles, buildings, and other environments that require overhead storage.
- the integrated transport system can be utilized for moving a variety of suitable objects besides galley carts.
- various embodiments are contemplated having different combinations of the described features, having features other than those described herein, or lacking one or more of those features. For these reasons, it is understood that the invention can be carried out in various suitable modes.
- the bi-level galley module 12 includes a main-deck sub-module 16 (best shown in FIG. 3A ) and an overhead sub-module 18 (best shown in FIG. 3B ) that is disposed above the main-deck sub-module 16 .
- the airframe of the airplane 10 can instead define a bi-level galley in various other suitable constructions besides a modular one.
- the bi-level galley module 12 is utilized for storing a series of galley carts 20 in the main-deck sub-module 16 and/or the overhead sub-module 18 .
- the bi-level galley module 12 can store about twice as many galley carts 20 as a single-level galley module having a similarly-sized perimeter. This feature is beneficial because it can decrease the overall number of galleys in the airplane and increase the amount of available space on the main deck.
- this additional space can be utilized for hosting additional passenger seats, maintaining the same number of passenger seats while increasing their size, increasing the available room within which the passengers and the crewmembers can move about the airplane 10 , providing various other advantages, or any suitable combination thereof as desired.
- this bi-level galley module 12 does not occupy any space in the lower lobe or cargo bay of the airplane 10 .
- the bi-level galley module 12 is further beneficial for preserving the payload capacity of the airplane 10 .
- the integrated transport system 14 can improve the efficiency of the airplane 10 as a vehicle for transporting persons, luggage, and various other items.
- the bi-level galley module 12 can store various other suitable objects besides galley carts 20 as desired.
- FIGS. 4A-4D there generally is shown the sequential operation of the integrated transport system 14 for storing a galley cart 20 in the overhead sub-module 18 .
- FIG. 4A shows the galley cart 20 being secured to the integrated transport system 14 .
- FIG. 4B illustrates the integrated transport system 14 moving the galley cart 20 upward generally along a longitudinal axis 22 of a shaft 24 , which extends between the main-deck sub-module 16 and the overhead sub-module 18 .
- FIG. 4C shows the integrated transport system 14 moving the galley cart 20 along a first axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 .
- FIG. 4D illustrates the integrated transport system moving the galley cart 20 generally along a second axis 28 for placing the galley cart 20 in a storage area 30 of the overhead sub-module 18 .
- the integrated transport system 14 includes a cart carrier 32 for receiving the galley cart 20 .
- This cart carrier 32 includes one or more restraint members for securing the galley cart 20 to the cart carrier 32 and preventing the galley cart 20 from tipping over or otherwise falling from the cart carrier 32 .
- This feature is advantageous because it can substantially improve the safety of storing, retrieving, or otherwise transporting galley carts, which can weigh in up to 250 pounds or more.
- the restraint members are a series of interconnected plate members 34 , which form a box construction defining the cart carrier 32 .
- These plate members 34 are integral parts of the one-piece box construction.
- the plate members 34 can be separate components welded or otherwise fastened together by various suitable fasteners.
- the restraint members can instead be netting members, belt members, rope members, or any combination thereof as desired.
- the cart carrier 32 can have other suitable shapes besides a box construction.
- the box construction includes one or more opposing open faces 36 for allowing the galley cart 20 to enter or exit the cart carrier 32 .
- One or more rope members 38 can be secured across the open faces 36 via suitable fasteners, e.g. a cord with a hook-and-loop fastener, for preventing the galley cart 20 from moving out of the cart carrier 32 .
- one or more of the plate members 34 has one or more openings 40 formed therethrough for allowing a crewmember to reach into the cart carrier 32 , grab hold of the galley cart 20 , and manually force the galley cart 20 out of the cart carrier 32 . It will also be appreciated that these openings 40 can decrease the amount of material comprising the cart carrier 32 thereby decreasing the material costs of the cart carrier 32 , and minimizing the amount of weight carried by the airplane 10 .
- the single-unit gantry-lift device 46 further includes a lift device 46 coupled to the cart carrier 32 for raising and lowering the cart carrier 32 along the longitudinal axis 22 of the shaft 24 .
- This lift device 46 is a motorized pulley mechanism.
- the lift device 46 can instead be a screw mechanism, a gear mechanism, manually operated or otherwise, or any suitable combination thereof as desired.
- the single-unit gantry-lift device 46 further includes a gantry device 44 , which is coupled to the lift device 46 .
- this gantry device 44 is utilized for moving the lift device 46 and the cart carrier 32 along the first axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 to a point adjacent to an open or available section of the storage area 30 .
- a crewmember can climb a ladder 48 , enter the overhead sub-module 18 via a walkway 50 in the overhead sub-module 18 , grab hold of one or more handles 52 extending from the cart carrier 32 , and pull the cart carrier 32 along the first axis 26 .
- the crew member can utilize the gantry device 44 for moving the galley cart 20 next to its final destination in the storage area 30 .
- the gantry device 44 includes a pair of rails 54 , which is mounted to the overhead sub-module 18 via bolt fasteners or other suitable fasteners. These rails 54 are utilized for suspending the lift device 46 and the cart carrier 32 therefrom and preventing the cart carrier 32 from tipping and causing the galley cart 20 to fall from the cart carrier 32 . Moreover, in accordance with the aforementioned, each rail 54 is substantially aligned with the first axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 for moving the lift device 46 and the cart carrier 32 along the first axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 .
- these rails 54 and the lift device 46 have two or more rolling members 56 coupled therebetween.
- a fifth-percentile female can apply a substantially low force for moving the lift device 46 , the cart carrier 32 , and a substantially heavy galley cart 20 along the first axis 26 .
- rolling members 56 are conventional wheels that are secured within a track 58 defined by each rail 54 .
- Each wheel and each respective rail 54 have a ball-bearing coupling 56 ′ therebetween for minimizing the force required to move the lift device 46 and the cart carrier 32 along the rails 54 .
- other suitable rotatable couplings can be utilized as desired.
- the rails 54 and the lift device 46 have one or more sliding members 60 coupled therebetween.
- These sliding members 60 are truncated tubes secured within the tracks 58 .
- These truncated tubes have a cross-sectional shape that is substantially similar to the cross-section of the rail 54 .
- the outer surface 62 of the truncated tube and the inner surface 64 of the track 58 are sufficiently smooth for allowing the truncated tubes to slide substantially across the length of the rails 54 . It is contemplated that a variety of other suitable low-friction couplings besides sliding members 60 and rolling members 56 can be utilized as desired.
- the crewmember can reach through the opening 40 in the plate member 34 , grab hold of the galley cart 20 , and move the galley cart 20 along the second axis 28 between the cart carrier 32 and the storage area 30 of the overhead sub-module 18 .
- the cart carrier 32 includes an unloading mechanism for selectively attaching to the galley cart 20 and forcing the galley cart 20 out of the cart carrier 32 .
- the unloading mechanism is a gear system 72 integrated within the cart carrier 32 and a fastener 82 coupled to the gear system 72 .
- the gear system 72 includes a crank 74 for operation by a user. This crank 74 drives a one or more gears 76 coupled together via one or more chains 78 .
- each gear 76 has teeth 80 for contacting opposing teeth 80 ′ formed in the fastener 82 .
- This fastener 82 is selectively coupled to the galley cart 20 for forcing the galley cart 20 out of the cart carrier 32 in a direction generally along the second axis 28 .
- the fastener 82 is an overhead tray with a pair of side rail portions 84 , which slide within respective grooves 88 formed within the cart carrier 32 .
- the side rail portions 84 include one or more detents 86 (shown in FIG. 6 ) for contacting the cart carrier 32 and preventing the overhead tray from sliding out of the grooves 88 and completely detaching from the cart carrier 32 .
- detents 86 shown in FIG. 6
- the overhead tray has opposing end portions 90 with a movable hook 92 coupled thereto for selectively attaching to an end of the galley cart 20 .
- the gear mechanism 72 and the fastener 82 can have various other suitable constructions as desired.
- the unloading mechanism can be a robotic arm 94 for grabbing hold of the galley cart 20 extracting the galley cart 20 from the cart carrier 32 .
- This robotic arm 94 is pneumatically driven by way of a piston-driven mechanism or other suitable pressure source.
- the robotic arm 94 can instead be driven by a hydraulic power source, an electric servo motor, manual operation, any combination thereof, or various other suitable power sources as desired. It is also contemplated that the robotic arm 94 can push the galley cart 20 out of the carrier 32 instead of pulling the galley cart 20 therefrom as desired.
- the unloading mechanism can be a bar member 96 positioned across an end of the galley cart 20 .
- This bar member 96 can include a handle portion 98 for allowing an individual to force the bar member 96 and the galley cart 20 in a direction substantially along the second axis 28 of the overhead sub-module 18 .
- a variety of suitable unloading mechanisms can be utilized for unloading the galley cart 20 from the cart carrier 32 as desired.
- FIGS. 11A and 11B there are shown perspective assembled and exploded views of a deployable receptacle 100 for storing the galley cart 20 , according to one advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention.
- the deployable receptacle 100 is utilized for storing a galley cart 32 and deploying a galley cart 32 therefrom.
- the deployable receptacle 100 can be utilized for storing and deploying a variety of other suitable objects as desired.
- the deployable receptacle 100 can be tilted at a predetermined angle for causing the galley cart 20 to roll out of the receptacle 100 into the cart carrier 32 or otherwise decrease the amount of force required to move the galley cart 20 into the cart carrier 32 .
- This feature is beneficial because it can facilitate a person in moving a substantially heavy galley cart 32 .
- the deployable receptacle 100 includes a tray 102 for supporting the galley cart 20 thereon. As introduced above, this tray 102 is movable between a storing position for storing the galley cart 20 thereon and a deployable position for deploying the galley cart 20 therefrom. This tray 102 is substantially horizontal when it is disposed in the storing position, and is tilted at a predetermined angle, e.g. up to five degrees, when it is disposed in the deploying position. However, it will be appreciated that other suitable positions can be utilized instead.
- the tray 102 has one or more levers 104 coupled thereto for moving the tray 102 between the storing position and the deploying position.
- the tray 102 includes a proximal end portion 106 and a distal end portion 108 opposite to the proximal end portion 106 .
- the lever 104 is comprised of a force arm 110 , a resistance arm 112 , and a fulcrum portion 114 therebetween.
- the resistance arm 112 of the lever 104 is coupled to the distal end portion 108 of the tray 102 for raising or lowering the distal end portion 108 of the tray 102 .
- the fulcrum portion 114 is pivotally coupled to a distal anchor member 116 , which is fixedly mounted to a surface 30 ′ of the storage area 30 .
- the lever 104 forces the distal end portion 108 of the tray 102 to move along a generally upward arcuate path.
- the resistance arm 112 preferably is substantially horizontal when the tray 102 is midway between the storing position and the deploying position. As one skilled in the art will understand, this feature can maximize the amount by which the tray 102 is tilted while minimizing the amount of lever rotation for doing so.
- the force arm 110 has a pedal portion 134 attached thereto for allowing an operator to step on the pedal portion 134 and move the tray 102 between the storing position and the deploying position.
- the lever 104 can instead be actuated by a variety of other suitable mechanisms. For instance, a solenoid device, a hydraulic device, an electronic servo device, other suitable mechanisms, or any combination thereof can actuate the lever 104 as desired.
- the proximal end portion 106 of the tray 102 is coupled to a proximal anchor member 120 via a linkage bar 122 .
- the proximal anchor member 120 is attached to the surface 30 ′ of the storage area 30 .
- the proximal anchor member 120 secures the tray 102 to surface 30 ′ of the storage area 30 while allowing the tray 102 to be tilted as the distal end portion 108 is pivoted generally along its arcuate path.
- the linkage member 122 has a first end 122 ′ and a second end 122 ′′ that is opposite to the first end 122 ′.
- the first end 122 ′ is pivotally coupled to the tray 102
- the second end 122 ′′ is pivotally coupled to the proximal anchor member 120 .
- the tray 102 , the linkage bar 122 , and the proximal anchor member 120 are configured for moving the proximal end portion 106 of the tray 102 along an arcuate path upward and then downward to the original height.
- the linkage bar 122 preferably is substantially vertical when the tray is midway between the storing position and the deploying position. For that reason, the proximal end portion 106 is positioned at the same height in the storing position as it is in the deploying position.
- This feature is advantageous because it allows the tray 102 to be aligned with the cart carrier 32 when the tray 102 is in both the deploying position and the storing position.
- the galley cart 20 can be smoothly transferred between the cart carrier 32 and the tray 102 without having to first lift the galley cart before rolling the galley cart into the receiving container.
- the first end 122 ′ of the linkage bar 122 is pivotally coupled to the proximal anchor member 120
- the second end 122 ′′ of the linkage bar 122 is pivotally coupled to the tray 102 .
- the tray 102 , the linkage bar 122 , and the proximal anchor member 120 are configured for moving the proximal end portion 106 along an arcuate path, generally downward and then upward to the original height.
- the proximal end portion 106 can be coupled to the surface 30 ′ of the storage area 30 via a slot and pin fastening pair 122 ′′′ integrated within the proximal anchor member 120 .
- a slot and pin fastening pair 122 ′′′ integrated within the proximal anchor member 120 .
- various other constructions can be utilized for coupling the proximal end portion 106 of the tray 102 to the surface 30 ′ of the storage area 30 .
- the tray 102 includes a series of roller members 124 extending from a pair of ledge portions 126 of the tray 102 for supporting a bottom portion 128 of the galley cart 20 , according to one embodiment of the claimed invention.
- These roller members 124 allow the galley cart 20 to readily move into the tray 102 when the tray 102 is in the storing position and also to readily move the galley cart 20 out of the tray 102 when the tray 102 is tilted in the deploying position.
- the tray 102 has pan portion 130 upon which the wheels 132 of the galley cart 20 are supported. In that way, the tray 102 allows the wheels 132 of the galley cart 20 to roll across the pan portion 130 as the galley cart 20 is moved between the deployable receptacle 100 and the cart carrier 32 .
- FIG. 17 there is shown a logic flow diagram for a method for operating the integrated transport system 14 shown in FIGS. 4A-4D .
- the method begins in step 200 and then immediately proceeds to step 202 .
- step 202 the galley cart 20 is secured to the cart carrier 32 .
- this step is accomplished by rolling the galley cart 20 onto the cart carrier 32 through an open face 36 of the box construction comprising the cart carrier 32 .
- the cart carrier 32 has one or more restraint members for securing the galley cart 20 to the cart carrier 32 .
- These restraint members are a series of interconnected plates 34 , which define the cart carrier 32 itself.
- the restraint members include a rope member 38 is secured across the open face 36 to prevent the galley cart 20 from inadvertently rolling through the open face 36 and out of the cart carrier 32 .
- the restraint members can be various other suitable mechanisms as desired. Then, the sequence proceeds to step 204 .
- a crewmember operates the lift device 46 for moving the cart carrier 32 and the galley cart 20 upward along the longitudinal axis 22 of the shaft 24 .
- This lift device 46 is a motorized pulley mechanism with sufficient power for lifting the cart carrier 32 and a substantially heavy galley cart 20 .
- the lift device 46 can be various other suitable mechanisms, motorized or manually operated, as described herein-above. Then, the sequence proceeds to step 206 .
- step 206 the crewmember climbs the ladder 48 and enters the overhead sub-module 18 via the walkway 50 . This crewmember stands on the walkway 50 and waits for the cart carrier 32 to arrive within the overhead sub-module 18 . The sequence then proceeds to step 208 .
- the crewmember operates the gantry device 44 for moving the lift device 46 , the cart carrier 32 , and the galley cart 20 along the first axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 .
- This gantry device 44 can be a manually operated device comprised of a pair of rails 54 mounted to the overhead sub-module and also attached to the lift device 46 via one or more sliding members 60 or rolling members 56 .
- the gantry device 44 is manually operated.
- the cart carrier 32 includes one or more handles 52 for allowing the crewmember to move the cart carrier 32 , the galley cart 20 , and the lift device 46 along the rails 54 .
- the gantry device 44 is a motorized device. The sequence then proceeds to step 210 .
- step 210 the crewmember moves the galley cart 20 along the second axis 28 from the cart carrier 32 to the open section of the storage area 30 .
- This step is accomplished by the crewmember grabbing hold of the galley cart 20 through the opening 40 of the cart carrier 32 and pushing or pulling the galley cart 20 onto the available section of the storage area 30 .
- this step can be accomplished utilizing various un-lading mechanisms integrated within the cart carrier 32 as desired.
- a crewmember can retrieve a galley cart 20 from the storage area 30 by reversing the order of steps 200 - 210 .
Abstract
Description
- The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/708,955 entitled “AN INTEGRATED TRANSPORT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OVERHEAD STOWAGE AND RETRIEVAL,” and filed on Apr. 2, 2004.
- The present invention relates generally to aircrafts, and more particularly to an integrated transport system and method for moving an object within a bi-level cabin.
- Aircraft manufacturers are well known for producing aircrafts having constructions that maximize the use of space within those aircrafts. For example, certain commercial airplanes can have automated elevator systems for vertically moving galley carts between a main deck galley and a lower lobe of the airplane. In this way, the galley carts can be stored in the lower lobe. For that reason, the main-deck passenger cabin can be sized larger than it would otherwise have been if those carts were stored on the main deck. This construction is beneficial because it can allow the manufacturer to increase the number of passenger seats, maintain the number of seats while increasing the size of the passenger seats, increase the room within which the passengers and the crewmembers can move about the aircraft, or provide various other advantages.
- Furthermore, a typical galley cart can weigh a substantially high amount and therefore can be somewhat cumbersome to store, retrieve, or otherwise manipulate within an aircraft. This substantially high weight typically is attributed to the meals, beverages, trash, and various other items carried by the cart, as well as the cart itself. For instance, one skilled in the art understands that a typical galley cart can weigh up to about 250 pounds or more.
- Therefore, it would be desirable to further improve the movement of galley carts, cargo, or other objects within a vehicle or building, and enhance the use of space within that vehicle or building.
- One embodiment of the present invention is an integrated transport system for moving an object in an aircraft between a main cabin and an overhead cabin via a shaft in connection therebetween. This integrated transport system includes a single-unit gantry-lift device with an object carrier for receiving the object. This object carrier has one or more restraint members for securing the object in the object carrier and preventing the object from tipping. The single-unit gantry-lift device further includes a lift device for moving the object carrier generally along a longitudinal axis of the shaft. Moreover, the single-unit-gantry-lift device also includes a gantry device for moving the object carrier generally along a first axis of the overhead cabin and/or a second axis, which is disposed generally perpendicular to the first axis.
- One advantage of the invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can transfer a substantially heavy object with a substantially low risk of the object tipping and falling.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can quickly and easily move an object within an aircraft.
- Yet another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided with a simple construction for providing ease of manufacture, minimizing the costs associated therewith, and facilitating the installation of the integrated transport system.
- Still another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can increase the available space on a main deck of an aircraft.
- Yet another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can preserve the payload capacity of a lower lobe or cargo bay of an aircraft.
- Still another advantage of the present invention is that an integrated transport system is provided that can be manually operated for eliminating the power requirements, maintenance costs, and likelihood of malfunctions, which are typically associated with automated transport systems.
- The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently and in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined in yet other embodiments.
- For a more complete understanding of this invention, reference should now be made to the embodiments illustrated in greater detail in the accompanying drawings and described below by way of examples of the invention:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aircraft having a bi-level galley module with an integrated transport system, according to one embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bi-level galley module shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an overhead sub-module of the bi-level galley module shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a main-deck sub-module of the bi-level galley module shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIGS. 4A-4D are partially cutaway perspective views of the bi-level galley module shown inFIG. 2 , sequentially illustrating the integrated transport system moving a galley cart from the main-deck sub-module to the overhead sub-module for storage therein; -
FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a gantry device of the integrated transport system, shown inFIGS. 4A-4D ; -
FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of a gantry device of the integrated transport system, shown inFIGS. 4A-4D , according to another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the cart carrier, shown inFIGS. 4A-4D , with an unloading mechanism for unloading the galley cart, according to one advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 7 is a partially cutaway plan view of the unloading mechanism shown inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a cutaway view of the unloading mechanism shown inFIG. 7 , as taken along line 8-8; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cart carrier, shown inFIGS. 4A-4D , and an unloading mechanism for unloading the galley cart from the cart carrier, according to another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the cart carrier, shown inFIGS. 4A-4D , with an unloading mechanism for unloading the galley cart, according to still another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a deployable receptacle for storing the galley cart in the storage area of the overhead sub-module shown inFIGS. 4A-4D ; -
FIG. 11B is an exploded view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIG. 11A ; -
FIG. 12 is a cutaway perspective view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B , illustrating the deployable receptacle moving the galley cart from the receptacle to the cart carrier; -
FIG. 13 is a side view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B , illustrating the deployable cart being movable between a storing position and a deploying position; -
FIG. 14A is a cutaway view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIG. 13 , as taken withincircle 14A, illustrating a pivotal coupling for moving the deployable receptacle between the storing position and the deploying position; -
FIG. 14B is a cutaway view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIG. 14A , illustrating the pivotal coupling according to another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 14C is a cutaway view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIG. 14A , illustrating the pivotal coupling according to yet another advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention; -
FIG. 15 is a cutaway perspective view of the overhead sub-module with a series of the deployable receptacles shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B ; -
FIG. 16 is a front view of the deployable receptacle shown inFIG. 11A with a galley cart supported thereon; and -
FIG. 17 is a logic flow diagram illustrating a method for operating the integrated transport system shown inFIG. 4A-4D . - In the following figures the same reference numerals are utilized for designating the same or similar components in the various views. Moreover, the illustrated embodiments described herein employ features where the context permits, e.g. when a specific result or advantage of the claimed invention is desired. Specifically, the embodiments described herein implement an integrated transport system for moving a galley cart between an overhead sub-module and a main-deck sub-module of a bi-level galley module that is installed in an aircraft. However, it is contemplated that the integrated transport system can be utilized for various other suitable vehicles, buildings, and other environments that require overhead storage. In addition, it will be appreciated that the integrated transport system can be utilized for moving a variety of suitable objects besides galley carts. In this vein, various embodiments are contemplated having different combinations of the described features, having features other than those described herein, or lacking one or more of those features. For these reasons, it is understood that the invention can be carried out in various suitable modes.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , there is shown acommercial airplane 10 having abi-level galley module 12 with an integrated transport system 14 (best shown inFIGS. 4A-4D ), according to one advantageous embodiment of the invention. With attention toFIG. 2 , thebi-level galley module 12 includes a main-deck sub-module 16 (best shown inFIG. 3A ) and an overhead sub-module 18 (best shown inFIG. 3B ) that is disposed above the main-deck sub-module 16. However, it will be appreciated that the airframe of theairplane 10 can instead define a bi-level galley in various other suitable constructions besides a modular one. - The
bi-level galley module 12 is utilized for storing a series ofgalley carts 20 in the main-deck sub-module 16 and/or theoverhead sub-module 18. In this way, thebi-level galley module 12 can store about twice asmany galley carts 20 as a single-level galley module having a similarly-sized perimeter. This feature is beneficial because it can decrease the overall number of galleys in the airplane and increase the amount of available space on the main deck. One skilled in the art will understand that this additional space can be utilized for hosting additional passenger seats, maintaining the same number of passenger seats while increasing their size, increasing the available room within which the passengers and the crewmembers can move about theairplane 10, providing various other advantages, or any suitable combination thereof as desired. In addition, in this embodiment, it will be appreciated that thisbi-level galley module 12 does not occupy any space in the lower lobe or cargo bay of theairplane 10. In this regard, thebi-level galley module 12 is further beneficial for preserving the payload capacity of theairplane 10. For these reasons, it is understood that theintegrated transport system 14 can improve the efficiency of theairplane 10 as a vehicle for transporting persons, luggage, and various other items. It is also understood that thebi-level galley module 12 can store various other suitable objects besidesgalley carts 20 as desired. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4A-4D , there generally is shown the sequential operation of theintegrated transport system 14 for storing agalley cart 20 in theoverhead sub-module 18. Specifically,FIG. 4A shows thegalley cart 20 being secured to theintegrated transport system 14. Furthermore,FIG. 4B illustrates theintegrated transport system 14 moving thegalley cart 20 upward generally along alongitudinal axis 22 of ashaft 24, which extends between the main-deck sub-module 16 and theoverhead sub-module 18. Additionally,FIG. 4C shows theintegrated transport system 14 moving thegalley cart 20 along afirst axis 26 of theoverhead sub-module 18. Finally,FIG. 4D illustrates the integrated transport system moving thegalley cart 20 generally along asecond axis 28 for placing thegalley cart 20 in astorage area 30 of theoverhead sub-module 18. - Referring back to
FIG. 4A , theintegrated transport system 14 includes acart carrier 32 for receiving thegalley cart 20. Thiscart carrier 32 includes one or more restraint members for securing thegalley cart 20 to thecart carrier 32 and preventing thegalley cart 20 from tipping over or otherwise falling from thecart carrier 32. This feature is advantageous because it can substantially improve the safety of storing, retrieving, or otherwise transporting galley carts, which can weigh in up to 250 pounds or more. - In this embodiment, the restraint members are a series of
interconnected plate members 34, which form a box construction defining thecart carrier 32. Theseplate members 34 are integral parts of the one-piece box construction. However, it will be appreciated that theplate members 34 can be separate components welded or otherwise fastened together by various suitable fasteners. Furthermore, it is also contemplated that the restraint members can instead be netting members, belt members, rope members, or any combination thereof as desired. In addition, it is also understood that thecart carrier 32 can have other suitable shapes besides a box construction. - The box construction includes one or more opposing
open faces 36 for allowing thegalley cart 20 to enter or exit thecart carrier 32. One ormore rope members 38 can be secured across the open faces 36 via suitable fasteners, e.g. a cord with a hook-and-loop fastener, for preventing thegalley cart 20 from moving out of thecart carrier 32. Furthermore, as detailed in the description gotFIG. 4D , one or more of theplate members 34 has one or more openings 40 formed therethrough for allowing a crewmember to reach into thecart carrier 32, grab hold of thegalley cart 20, and manually force thegalley cart 20 out of thecart carrier 32. It will also be appreciated that these openings 40 can decrease the amount of material comprising thecart carrier 32 thereby decreasing the material costs of thecart carrier 32, and minimizing the amount of weight carried by theairplane 10. - Referring back to
FIG. 4B , the single-unit gantry-lift device 46 further includes alift device 46 coupled to thecart carrier 32 for raising and lowering thecart carrier 32 along thelongitudinal axis 22 of theshaft 24. In this way, thecart carrier 32 and thegalley cart 20 contained therein can be moved between the main-deck sub-module 16 and theoverhead sub-module 18. Thislift device 46 is a motorized pulley mechanism. However, it is contemplated that thelift device 46 can instead be a screw mechanism, a gear mechanism, manually operated or otherwise, or any suitable combination thereof as desired. - Moreover, the single-unit gantry-
lift device 46 further includes agantry device 44, which is coupled to thelift device 46. As best shown inFIG. 4C , thisgantry device 44 is utilized for moving thelift device 46 and thecart carrier 32 along thefirst axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 to a point adjacent to an open or available section of thestorage area 30. Specifically, a crewmember can climb aladder 48, enter the overhead sub-module 18 via awalkway 50 in the overhead sub-module 18, grab hold of one ormore handles 52 extending from thecart carrier 32, and pull thecart carrier 32 along thefirst axis 26. In this way, the crew member can utilize thegantry device 44 for moving thegalley cart 20 next to its final destination in thestorage area 30. - To that end, the
gantry device 44 includes a pair ofrails 54, which is mounted to the overhead sub-module 18 via bolt fasteners or other suitable fasteners. Theserails 54 are utilized for suspending thelift device 46 and thecart carrier 32 therefrom and preventing thecart carrier 32 from tipping and causing thegalley cart 20 to fall from thecart carrier 32. Moreover, in accordance with the aforementioned, eachrail 54 is substantially aligned with thefirst axis 26 of the overhead sub-module 18 for moving thelift device 46 and thecart carrier 32 along thefirst axis 26 of theoverhead sub-module 18. - As best shown in
FIG. 5A , theserails 54 and thelift device 46 have two ormore rolling members 56 coupled therebetween. In this respect, a fifth-percentile female can apply a substantially low force for moving thelift device 46, thecart carrier 32, and a substantiallyheavy galley cart 20 along thefirst axis 26. In this embodiment, rollingmembers 56 are conventional wheels that are secured within atrack 58 defined by eachrail 54. Each wheel and eachrespective rail 54 have a ball-bearingcoupling 56′ therebetween for minimizing the force required to move thelift device 46 and thecart carrier 32 along therails 54. However, it is understood that other suitable rotatable couplings can be utilized as desired. - In another embodiment shown in
FIG. 5B , therails 54 and thelift device 46 have one or more slidingmembers 60 coupled therebetween. These slidingmembers 60 are truncated tubes secured within thetracks 58. These truncated tubes have a cross-sectional shape that is substantially similar to the cross-section of therail 54. Additionally, theouter surface 62 of the truncated tube and theinner surface 64 of thetrack 58 are sufficiently smooth for allowing the truncated tubes to slide substantially across the length of therails 54. It is contemplated that a variety of other suitable low-friction couplings besides slidingmembers 60 and rollingmembers 56 can be utilized as desired. - Referring back to
FIG. 4D , the crewmember can reach through the opening 40 in theplate member 34, grab hold of thegalley cart 20, and move thegalley cart 20 along thesecond axis 28 between thecart carrier 32 and thestorage area 30 of theoverhead sub-module 18. - In another embodiment, the
cart carrier 32 includes an unloading mechanism for selectively attaching to thegalley cart 20 and forcing thegalley cart 20 out of thecart carrier 32. For example, as shown inFIG. 6 , the unloading mechanism is agear system 72 integrated within thecart carrier 32 and afastener 82 coupled to thegear system 72. Thegear system 72 includes a crank 74 for operation by a user. This crank 74 drives a one ormore gears 76 coupled together via one ormore chains 78. As best shown inFIGS. 7 and 8 , eachgear 76 hasteeth 80 for contacting opposingteeth 80′ formed in thefastener 82. Thisfastener 82 is selectively coupled to thegalley cart 20 for forcing thegalley cart 20 out of thecart carrier 32 in a direction generally along thesecond axis 28. As best shown inFIG. 8 , thefastener 82 is an overhead tray with a pair ofside rail portions 84, which slide withinrespective grooves 88 formed within thecart carrier 32. Furthermore, theside rail portions 84 include one or more detents 86 (shown inFIG. 6 ) for contacting thecart carrier 32 and preventing the overhead tray from sliding out of thegrooves 88 and completely detaching from thecart carrier 32. In addition, as shown inFIG. 6 , the overhead tray has opposingend portions 90 with a movable hook 92 coupled thereto for selectively attaching to an end of thegalley cart 20. However, it is contemplated that thegear mechanism 72 and thefastener 82 can have various other suitable constructions as desired. - By way of another example illustrated in
FIG. 9 , the unloading mechanism can be arobotic arm 94 for grabbing hold of thegalley cart 20 extracting thegalley cart 20 from thecart carrier 32. Thisrobotic arm 94 is pneumatically driven by way of a piston-driven mechanism or other suitable pressure source. However, it will be appreciated that therobotic arm 94 can instead be driven by a hydraulic power source, an electric servo motor, manual operation, any combination thereof, or various other suitable power sources as desired. It is also contemplated that therobotic arm 94 can push thegalley cart 20 out of thecarrier 32 instead of pulling thegalley cart 20 therefrom as desired. - According to yet another example shown in
FIG. 10 , the unloading mechanism can be abar member 96 positioned across an end of thegalley cart 20. Thisbar member 96 can include ahandle portion 98 for allowing an individual to force thebar member 96 and thegalley cart 20 in a direction substantially along thesecond axis 28 of theoverhead sub-module 18. It will be appreciated that a variety of suitable unloading mechanisms can be utilized for unloading thegalley cart 20 from thecart carrier 32 as desired. - Referring to
FIGS. 11A and 11B , there are shown perspective assembled and exploded views of adeployable receptacle 100 for storing thegalley cart 20, according to one advantageous embodiment of the claimed invention. In this embodiment, thedeployable receptacle 100 is utilized for storing agalley cart 32 and deploying agalley cart 32 therefrom. However, it is contemplated that thedeployable receptacle 100 can be utilized for storing and deploying a variety of other suitable objects as desired. - As best shown in
FIGS. 12 and 13 , thedeployable receptacle 100 can be tilted at a predetermined angle for causing thegalley cart 20 to roll out of thereceptacle 100 into thecart carrier 32 or otherwise decrease the amount of force required to move thegalley cart 20 into thecart carrier 32. This feature is beneficial because it can facilitate a person in moving a substantiallyheavy galley cart 32. - The
deployable receptacle 100 includes atray 102 for supporting thegalley cart 20 thereon. As introduced above, thistray 102 is movable between a storing position for storing thegalley cart 20 thereon and a deployable position for deploying thegalley cart 20 therefrom. Thistray 102 is substantially horizontal when it is disposed in the storing position, and is tilted at a predetermined angle, e.g. up to five degrees, when it is disposed in the deploying position. However, it will be appreciated that other suitable positions can be utilized instead. - The
tray 102 has one ormore levers 104 coupled thereto for moving thetray 102 between the storing position and the deploying position. Specifically, thetray 102 includes aproximal end portion 106 and adistal end portion 108 opposite to theproximal end portion 106. In addition, thelever 104 is comprised of aforce arm 110, aresistance arm 112, and afulcrum portion 114 therebetween. Theresistance arm 112 of thelever 104 is coupled to thedistal end portion 108 of thetray 102 for raising or lowering thedistal end portion 108 of thetray 102. In this embodiment, thefulcrum portion 114 is pivotally coupled to adistal anchor member 116, which is fixedly mounted to asurface 30′ of thestorage area 30. In this way, thelever 104 forces thedistal end portion 108 of thetray 102 to move along a generally upward arcuate path. For this reason, theresistance arm 112 preferably is substantially horizontal when thetray 102 is midway between the storing position and the deploying position. As one skilled in the art will understand, this feature can maximize the amount by which thetray 102 is tilted while minimizing the amount of lever rotation for doing so. Additionally, in this embodiment, theforce arm 110 has apedal portion 134 attached thereto for allowing an operator to step on thepedal portion 134 and move thetray 102 between the storing position and the deploying position. However, it is understood that thelever 104 can instead be actuated by a variety of other suitable mechanisms. For instance, a solenoid device, a hydraulic device, an electronic servo device, other suitable mechanisms, or any combination thereof can actuate thelever 104 as desired. - The
proximal end portion 106 of thetray 102 is coupled to aproximal anchor member 120 via alinkage bar 122. As mentioned above, theproximal anchor member 120 is attached to thesurface 30′ of thestorage area 30. In this way, theproximal anchor member 120 secures thetray 102 to surface 30′ of thestorage area 30 while allowing thetray 102 to be tilted as thedistal end portion 108 is pivoted generally along its arcuate path. As shown in FIG. 14A, thelinkage member 122 has afirst end 122′ and asecond end 122″ that is opposite to thefirst end 122′. In this embodiment, thefirst end 122′ is pivotally coupled to thetray 102, and thesecond end 122″ is pivotally coupled to theproximal anchor member 120. In this way, thetray 102, thelinkage bar 122, and theproximal anchor member 120 are configured for moving theproximal end portion 106 of thetray 102 along an arcuate path upward and then downward to the original height. Specifically, thelinkage bar 122 preferably is substantially vertical when the tray is midway between the storing position and the deploying position. For that reason, theproximal end portion 106 is positioned at the same height in the storing position as it is in the deploying position. This feature is advantageous because it allows thetray 102 to be aligned with thecart carrier 32 when thetray 102 is in both the deploying position and the storing position. In this regard, thegalley cart 20 can be smoothly transferred between thecart carrier 32 and thetray 102 without having to first lift the galley cart before rolling the galley cart into the receiving container. - In another embodiment as shown in
FIG. 14B , thefirst end 122′ of thelinkage bar 122 is pivotally coupled to theproximal anchor member 120, and thesecond end 122″ of thelinkage bar 122 is pivotally coupled to thetray 102. For that reason, it will be appreciated that thetray 102, thelinkage bar 122, and theproximal anchor member 120 are configured for moving theproximal end portion 106 along an arcuate path, generally downward and then upward to the original height. - Also, as shown in another embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 14C , theproximal end portion 106 can be coupled to thesurface 30′ of thestorage area 30 via a slot andpin fastening pair 122′″ integrated within theproximal anchor member 120. However, it is understood that various other constructions can be utilized for coupling theproximal end portion 106 of thetray 102 to thesurface 30′ of thestorage area 30. - Referring now to
FIGS. 15 and 16 , thetray 102 includes a series ofroller members 124 extending from a pair ofledge portions 126 of thetray 102 for supporting a bottom portion 128 of thegalley cart 20, according to one embodiment of the claimed invention. Theseroller members 124 allow thegalley cart 20 to readily move into thetray 102 when thetray 102 is in the storing position and also to readily move thegalley cart 20 out of thetray 102 when thetray 102 is tilted in the deploying position. However, in another embodiment, thetray 102 haspan portion 130 upon which thewheels 132 of thegalley cart 20 are supported. In that way, thetray 102 allows thewheels 132 of thegalley cart 20 to roll across thepan portion 130 as thegalley cart 20 is moved between thedeployable receptacle 100 and thecart carrier 32. - Referring now to
FIG. 17 , there is shown a logic flow diagram for a method for operating theintegrated transport system 14 shown inFIGS. 4A-4D . The method begins instep 200 and then immediately proceeds to step 202. - In
step 202, thegalley cart 20 is secured to thecart carrier 32. In this embodiment, this step is accomplished by rolling thegalley cart 20 onto thecart carrier 32 through anopen face 36 of the box construction comprising thecart carrier 32. As explained above, thecart carrier 32 has one or more restraint members for securing thegalley cart 20 to thecart carrier 32. These restraint members are a series ofinterconnected plates 34, which define thecart carrier 32 itself. Additionally, the restraint members include arope member 38 is secured across theopen face 36 to prevent thegalley cart 20 from inadvertently rolling through theopen face 36 and out of thecart carrier 32. However, as explained above, the restraint members can be various other suitable mechanisms as desired. Then, the sequence proceeds to step 204. - In
step 204, a crewmember operates thelift device 46 for moving thecart carrier 32 and thegalley cart 20 upward along thelongitudinal axis 22 of theshaft 24. Thislift device 46 is a motorized pulley mechanism with sufficient power for lifting thecart carrier 32 and a substantiallyheavy galley cart 20. However, it is contemplated that thelift device 46 can be various other suitable mechanisms, motorized or manually operated, as described herein-above. Then, the sequence proceeds to step 206. - In
step 206, the crewmember climbs theladder 48 and enters the overhead sub-module 18 via thewalkway 50. This crewmember stands on thewalkway 50 and waits for thecart carrier 32 to arrive within theoverhead sub-module 18. The sequence then proceeds to step 208. - In
step 208, the crewmember operates thegantry device 44 for moving thelift device 46, thecart carrier 32, and thegalley cart 20 along thefirst axis 26 of theoverhead sub-module 18. Thisgantry device 44 can be a manually operated device comprised of a pair ofrails 54 mounted to the overhead sub-module and also attached to thelift device 46 via one or more slidingmembers 60 or rollingmembers 56. Thegantry device 44 is manually operated. Specifically, thecart carrier 32 includes one ormore handles 52 for allowing the crewmember to move thecart carrier 32, thegalley cart 20, and thelift device 46 along therails 54. In another embodiment, thegantry device 44 is a motorized device. The sequence then proceeds to step 210. - In
step 210, the crewmember moves thegalley cart 20 along thesecond axis 28 from thecart carrier 32 to the open section of thestorage area 30. This step is accomplished by the crewmember grabbing hold of thegalley cart 20 through the opening 40 of thecart carrier 32 and pushing or pulling thegalley cart 20 onto the available section of thestorage area 30. However, as exemplified above, this step can be accomplished utilizing various un-lading mechanisms integrated within thecart carrier 32 as desired. - It will be appreciated that a crewmember can retrieve a
galley cart 20 from thestorage area 30 by reversing the order of steps 200-210. - While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, numerous variations and alternate embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention be limited only in terms of the appended claims.
Claims (25)
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Also Published As
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US20050230540A1 (en) | 2005-10-20 |
US7159821B2 (en) | 2007-01-09 |
US7331544B1 (en) | 2008-02-19 |
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