U.S. patent application number 16/594458 was filed with the patent office on 2020-05-07 for aircraft stretcher connector.
The applicant listed for this patent is Marvin Keogh. Invention is credited to Marvin Keogh, Michael Andrew Koman.
Application Number | 20200140056 16/594458 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68314826 |
Filed Date | 2020-05-07 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200140056 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Koman; Michael Andrew ; et
al. |
May 7, 2020 |
AIRCRAFT STRETCHER CONNECTOR
Abstract
A block and bolt connector comprises a block having an aperture
with a lower opening and an upper opening which is smaller than the
lower opening. The aperture extends through the block from the
lower opening to the upper opening, and has a first portion and a
second portion. A bolt has a head portion which passes through the
lower opening but not the upper opening, and a shaft which may pass
through the lower opening and the upper opening. The head portion
of the bolt is received within aperture of the block and the shaft
extends at least partially outside of the block beyond the upper
opening. The first and second portions of the aperture are
configured so as to permit selected movement of the bolt within the
aperture relative to the block.
Inventors: |
Koman; Michael Andrew;
(Santa Clarita, CA) ; Keogh; Marvin; (US) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Marvin Keogh |
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|
Family ID: |
68314826 |
Appl. No.: |
16/594458 |
Filed: |
October 7, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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15369430 |
Dec 5, 2016 |
10457376 |
|
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16594458 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B64D 11/00 20130101;
B64C 1/20 20130101; F16B 5/0216 20130101; B64D 11/0696 20130101;
F16B 37/044 20130101; F16B 5/065 20130101; B64D 2011/0092 20130101;
F16B 33/002 20130101; F16B 37/043 20130101; F16B 41/002
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B64C 1/20 20060101
B64C001/20; B64D 11/00 20060101 B64D011/00; B64D 11/06 20060101
B64D011/06 |
Claims
1. A block and bolt connector comprising: a block having an
aperture with a lower opening and an upper opening which is smaller
than the lower opening, the aperture extending through the block
from the lower opening to the upper opening, the aperture having a
first portion and a second portion; a bolt having a head portion
which may pass through the lower opening but not the upper opening
and a shaft which may pass through the lower opening and the upper
opening, the head portion of the bolt being received within
aperture of the block and the shaft extending at least partially
outside of the block beyond the upper opening thereof, the first
and second portions of the aperture being configured so as to
permit selected movement of the bolt within the aperture relative
to the block.
2. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 1 wherein the
first portion of the aperture is generally cylindrical in shape and
the second portion of the aperture is at least partially arcuate in
shape.
3. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 2 wherein the
second portion of the aperture comprises a radial shape.
4. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 2 wherein the
first portion of the aperture is cylindrical in shape and has a
height which is at least that of the head portion of the bolt.
5. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 1 wherein the
upper opening is circular and has a diameter which is greater than
the diameter of the shaft.
6. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 1 wherein the
block comprises fastening means for attaching the block to a
substrate.
7. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 6 wherein the
fastening means comprises a pair of lateral bores each for
accommodating a connector bolt, the connector bolt attaching to a
threaded aperture in the substrate.
8. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 1 wherein the
block is mounted on a base block.
9. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 8 wherein the
base block attaches to a substrate.
10. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 9 wherein the
substrate comprises a track in the floor of an aircraft, and the
bolt connects to an aircraft stretcher.
11. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 8 wherein the
base block has an upper surface and a lower surface, and comprises
a recessed step on the upper surface thereof, the block being
accommodated within the recessed step.
12. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 1 further
comprising a tightening washer threadedly engaging with the shaft
of the bolt, the washer being movable on the shaft between a first
position wherein the bolt will substantially not move relative to
the block, and a selected second position wherein limited movement
of the bolt relative to the block is permitted.
13. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 12 comprising
multiple and selective second positions.
14. A block and bolt connector and claimed in claim 12 further
comprising a second washer mounted on the shaft for securing the
first washer.
15. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 8 wherein the
base block comprises securing bolts, and expanders mounted on the
securing bolts, for securing the base block to the substrate.
16. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 1 wherein the
connector connects a medical stretcher to the floor tracks in an
aircraft.
17. A block and bolt connector as claimed in claim 16 wherein the
aircraft is a Boeing 787.
18. A method of securing an object to a substrate, the method
comprising: providing a block and forming an aperture therein with
a lower opening and an upper opening which is smaller than the
lower opening, the aperture extending through the block from the
lower opening to the upper opening, the aperture having a first
portion and a second portion; mounting a bolt having a head portion
and a shaft in the aperture such that the head portion may pass
through the lower opening but not the upper opening and the shaft
portion may pass through the lower opening and the upper opening,
the head portion of the bolt being received within aperture of the
block and the shaft extending at least partially outside of the
block beyond the upper opening thereof, the first and second
portions of the aperture being configured so as to permit selected
movement of the bolt within the aperture relative to the block.
19. A method as claimed in claim 18 comprising the step of forming
the first portion of the aperture in a generally cylindrical shape
and forming the second portion of the aperture in an arcuate
shape.
20. A method as claimed in claim 19 wherein the arcuate shape
comprises a radius.
21. A method as claimed in claim 18 wherein the object is a medical
stretcher and the substrate is the floor in the cabin of an
aircraft.
22. A method as claimed in claim 21 wherein the medical stretcher
is selectively movable within defined tolerances relative to the
floor of the cabin of the aircraft.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/369,430 filed Dec. 5, 2016, which is a
continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/216,619
filed Jul. 21, 2016, which is a continuation of patent application
Ser. No. 15/091,518 filed Apr. 5, 2016, which is a continuation of
patent application Ser. No. 14/973,655 filed Dec. 17, 2015, which
is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/562,277
filed Dec. 5, 2014, which is continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/444,837 filed Jul. 28, 2014, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/246,984 filed
Apr. 7, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 14/076,607 filed Nov. 11, 2013, which is a continuation
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/889,171 filed
May 7, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/644,124 filed May 8, 2012, the contents of all
of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to devices and components for
connecting a stretcher to an aircraft. More particularly, the
invention is for a connecting system whereby a stretcher may be
releasably connected to an aircraft by attachment to the tracks in
the aircraft which may normally be used for seating attachment. In
one specific aspect, the invention relates to a connector device
which is located intermediate a platform or substrate and a
support, wherein the connected device selectively allows some
movement between the substrate and the support. In a preferred
embodiment, the substrate comprises a track in the floor of an
aircraft, and the support comprises the leg or post of a stretcher
for use in an aircraft.
[0003] The invention thus relates to devices and components for
connecting an object to a substrate, particularly where the
connection requires some give and take movement of the object
relative to the substrate. The devices and components of the
invention therefore connect the object to the substrate in a manner
which is not completely rigid or inflexible, but allow some
selected minimal movement of the object relative to the substrate,
particularly in response to external forces.
[0004] Most passenger commercial aircraft have a cabin area,
primarily for the arrangement of seating in rows and lines. The
floor of the aircraft cabin will comprise a series of tracks onto
which the passenger seats may be firmly attached.
[0005] It will sometimes be necessary to utilize space in the
aircraft for medical patients who are being transported by the
aircraft, or may become ill on the aircraft and require treatment.
In these instances, a stretcher may be installed or fitted within
the aircraft cabin. The stretcher may include a frame, legs, and
specially adapted and constructed connectors whereby the stretcher
may be firmly but releasably attached to the tracks on the floor of
the cabin in the aircraft. A firm attachment is, of course,
required to keep the stretcher steady and stable, especially when
the aircraft may encounter turbulence, or during takeoff and
landing operations.
[0006] Even though a firm and stable connection is required, it is
also important that the stretcher be attached in a manner whereby
some flexibility or restricted movements are possible. While some
connections between stretcher and floor cabin track may prevent any
such movement, it has been found that a small degree of
non-rigidity or flexibility is useful and even advantageous in
certain circumstances. In other words, some relative movement
between the stretcher and the floor of the cabin is a desirable
constructional feature, even while the stretcher remains firmly
connected to the floor of the cabin and will not separate
therefrom.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided
a block and bolt connector comprising: a block having an aperture
with a lower opening and an upper opening which is smaller than the
lower opening, the aperture extending through the block from the
lower opening to the upper opening, the aperture having a first
portion and a second portion; a bolt having a head portion which
may pass through the lower opening but not the upper opening and a
shaft which may pass through the lower opening and the upper
opening, the head portion of the bolt being received within
aperture of the block and the shaft extending at least partially
outside of the block beyond the upper opening thereof, the first
and second portions of the aperture being configured so as to
permit selected movement of the bolt within the aperture relative
to the block.
[0008] Preferably, the first portion of the aperture is generally
cylindrical in shape and the second portion of the aperture is at
least partially arcuate in shape. In one embodiment, the second
portion of the aperture comprises a radial shape.
[0009] Further, the first portion of the aperture may be
cylindrical in shape and have a height which is at least that of
the head portion of the bolt.
[0010] In one embodiment, the upper opening is circular and has a
diameter which is greater than the diameter of the shaft. Further,
the block may comprise fastening means for attaching the block to a
substrate. The fastening means may comprise a pair of lateral bores
each for accommodating a connector bolt, the connector bolt
attaching to a threaded aperture in the substrate.
[0011] Preferably, the block is mounted on a base block, which may
attach to a substrate. The substrate may comprise a track in the
floor of an aircraft, and the bolt connects to an aircraft
stretcher.
[0012] In one embodiment, the base block has an upper surface and a
lower surface, and comprises a recessed step on the upper surface
thereof, the block being accommodated within the recessed step.
[0013] A tightening washer may threadedly engage with the shaft of
the bolt, the washer being movable on the shaft between a first
position wherein the bolt will substantially not move relative to
the block, and a selected second position wherein limited movement
of the bolt relative to the block is permitted. Further, there may
be a second washer mounted on the shaft for securing the first
washer.
[0014] In one embodiment, the base block comprises securing bolts,
and expanders mounted on the securing bolts, for securing the base
block to the substrate.
[0015] According to another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a method of securing an object to a substrate, the method
comprising: providing a block and forming an aperture therein with
a lower opening and an upper opening which is smaller than the
lower opening, the aperture extending through the block from the
lower opening to the upper opening, the aperture having a first
portion and a second portion; and mounting a bolt having a head
portion and a shaft in the aperture such that the head portion may
pass through the lower opening but not the upper opening and the
shaft portion may pass through the lower opening and the upper
opening, the head portion of the bolt being received within
aperture of the block and the shaft extending at least partially
outside of the block beyond the upper opening thereof, the first
and second portions of the aperture being configured so as to
permit selected movement of the bolt within the aperture relative
to the block.
[0016] The method may comprise the step of forming the first
portion of the aperture in a generally cylindrical shape and
forming the second portion of the aperture in an arcuate shape. The
arcuate shape may comprise a radius. In one embodiment, the object
is a medical stretcher and the substrate is the floor in the cabin
of an aircraft. Preferably, the medical stretcher is selectively
movable within defined tolerances relative to the floor of the
cabin of the aircraft.
[0017] The present invention, in one aspect thereof, therefore
provides for a connector system and components whereby the
stretcher and stretcher frame may be attached to the track in the
floor of the cabin in a manner which allows some minimal movement,
which may not only be beneficial, but may also be a requirement of
some aviation authorities.
[0018] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a
connector system and components whereby an object may be attached
to a substrate in a manner which allows some minimal relative
movement to occur between the object and the substrate. In some
cases, such minimal movement may be beneficial, permitting a small
degree of resilience between the object and the substrate. Such
benefits may be seen when opposing or different directional forces
occur between the object and the substrate, and the connector
system absorbs or reduces such opposing or different forces for
protective purposes and to reduce breakage or potential shock
between the object and the substrate. It should be appreciated that
the preferred embodiment does not allow movement of the object on
the substrate itself, but rather offers a resilience whereby the
object is able to move without compromising the connection between
such object and the substrate.
[0019] In another aspect of this invention, there is provided a
connector and connection system for attaching a stretcher to tracks
in the floor of a cabin, the tracks being of specific type and
configuration. In one embodiment, these tracks may be of the type
which may be found in the Boeing 787 aircraft, including any
variations or different models thereof.
[0020] The invention may further provide for a connection system
which is relevant to Boeing 787 specific stretcher development and
installation, although different configurations of the invention
may be used on other aircraft, and specifically adapted to the
specific hardware of such other aircraft to facilitate proper
connection. Included are specifics on stretcher location, "not to
exceed" envelopes, structural interface detail, and loading
allowables.
[0021] Are they connect to system of the invention is directed
mainly at its use in an aircraft, it may be used in other contexts
as well, including other modes of transport. Such other modes of
transport may include trains, ships, helicopters, ambulances and
the like, to name a few possibilities without limiting the
application of the invention.
[0022] One embodiment of the invention articulates engineering
detail relevant to stretcher design and integration within the 787
aircraft interior. Specifically, these details may relate to
structural interface detail, electrical interface detail,
"not-to-exceed" zones, and load limits are all supplied for
reference by the stretcher manufacturer.
[0023] In one aspect of the invention, the stretcher and its
associated connection system of the invention will satisfy or
address some or all of the following parameters:
[0024] (1) Locate stretcher near medical outlets, forward of door 2
and 4 on the left hand side;
[0025] (2) Avoid loading through the passenger seat belt;
[0026] (3) Take into consideration any patient attendant seating;
and
[0027] (4) Design of primary structural elements to facilitate
inspection for wear, deterioration, or any other condition that
would degrade safety.
[0028] As mentioned, one specific embodiment of this invention is
relevant to the location of the stretcher within the Boeing
aircraft 787, or other type of aircraft. Boeing requirements may
identify stretcher provisions which may be provided for eight and
nine abreast economy class seat configurations, a selectable
feature for economy class configurations only.
[0029] Medical outlets may be provided and will be typically
located forward of doors two and four on the left hand side of the
aircraft, and positioned in the first panel forward of the stow bin
end cap.
[0030] Identification and definition of all relevant stay out zones
for stretcher development and installation need to be considered in
locating a stretcher on an aircraft. Specifically seat break-over,
aisle clearance, interior surface clearance, and door clearance
information must be factored in.
[0031] In a preferred and specific form of the invention, the
stretcher will have a clearance height of about 38 inches above the
top of the seat track at a minimum to accommodate seat back break
over heights. The stretcher will not deform or deflect by an amount
greater than 1.9 inches under static or dynamic loading conditions
to ensure load sharing does not occur.
[0032] Furthermore, in a specific embodiment of the invention, the
stretcher legs will interface with the seat track defined and
described herein, and adhere to the stay out zone requirements
which may be detailed.
[0033] Removal of the seat track cover connector and associated
assembly can be effected for mechanical integration of the
stretcher to the seat track; however, electrical connectivity
should be maintained throughout the plug and play system to ensure
IFE operation. Engineering support for, and procurement of,
components which mate to the seat track connector and maintain
connectivity should be established.
[0034] This invention, in one form, therefore adds a removable
medical stretcher carrier that attaches to the aircraft seat tracks
and possibly the seats as well. The stretcher preferably installs
over a row of seats, fastening to the seat tracks and replacing the
seat belts. The stretcher carrier attaches to two lateral beams,
which in turn attach to the aircraft seat tracks. The forward, aft,
and side G loads are reacted into the adjacent seat belt fittings.
This preferably results in loads at the seat belt anchors lower or
equal to that of a seated passenger. The stretcher carrier legs
primarily react vertical loads, though they are designed to assist
in lateral load reaction as well.
[0035] Since the stretcher carriers may attach to the seat belt
anchors, and to lateral adapter tracks which in turn attach to the
aircraft the seat tracks, they are similar to a seat installation,
which is a certified product carried by the airframe.
[0036] Aircraft seat tracks for the majority of Part 25 airframes
have been of a common design since the early 1950's, usually
referred to as a "Brownline" track. This has allowed the
installation and connection system to readily fit to almost any
aircraft. For the Boeing 787, the seat tracks have been changed to
a row of holes in a titanium extrusion below the floorboards, as
generally illustrated in the drawings, to be described below. Seats
and other components must attach with blind bolts to these
holes.
[0037] Boeing has required that items attaching to the tracks be
able to remain attached to the tracks in a track misalignment
condition that may occur in an emergency landing.
[0038] In addition, the in-flight entertainment (IFE) system in
almost all passenger configurations is run via "Plug and Play"
cables extending from seat to seat, in the slot between the
floorboards. By installing the stretcher carrier, the IFE system
cables must be removed to allow access to the tracks, but the
system must be restored for flight.
[0039] The stretcher carrier installation as adapted to the Boeing
787 is essentially:
[0040] (1) the same STC approved carrier which will be used,
attaching to:
[0041] (2) Two lateral adapter tracks specific to the 787, to match
the track spacing; these attach to:
[0042] (3) A new seat track fitting, consisting of a swivel fitting
mounted to a block, which connects of:
[0043] (4) The aircraft seat track, using Boeing-approved track
attachment blind bolts;
[0044] (5) To provide continuity of the IFE system, four provided
"jumper cables" reconnect the data and power system at the
seats.
[0045] As will be seen with reference to the drawings, described
more fully below, one aspect of the invention comprises a metal
block component having lateral apertures by means of which it can
be secured to the track in the floor of the cabin in an aircraft.
Further, there is a larger central aperture which receives a bolt.
The larger aperture has a first portion which is somewhat or
substantially cylindrical, near the lower surface of the block, and
a second portion which is somewhat or substantially tapering. The
central aperture has an opening at the upper surface of the
block.
[0046] The bolt includes a shaft and a head. The bolt is inserted
in the central aperture, with the head and part of the shaft of the
bolt occupying the first and second portions of the aperture. The
shaft of the bolt extends through the opening at the upper surface
of the block, while the head of the bolt is captured within the
central aperture.
[0047] When the block is placed on a surface, with the bolt mounted
in the central aperture, it will be possible for the bolt to have
some up and down movement corresponding to the height of the
substantially cylindrical portion of the central aperture.
Additionally, it will be possible for the bolt to be oriented
slightly with respect to the vertical axis.
[0048] This block and bolt arrangement allows for some flexibility
or small movement of the stretcher. Ultimately, the stretcher is
fastened, either directly or indirectly, to the bolt, which is in
turn secured to the track or other appropriate platform. Therefore,
since the bolt is selectively permitted some movement within the
block, there will be some corresponding movement allowed by the
mounted stretcher. Note that the connector device of the invention
may be adjusted so that the bolt is not permitted any movement when
attached within the block, or the amount of movement may be varied
depending upon how the bolt is secured with nuts or threaded
washers within the recess and block. A description of these options
is provided below with reference to the drawings.
[0049] It will thus be appreciated that the extent of possible
movement can be adjusted and fine tuned depending upon the
configuration and dimensions of the central aperture, and
particularly the relative sizes of the substantially cylindrical
component or portion, and the substantially spherical portion.
[0050] It should also be appreciated that the present invention may
be used in contexts other than the mounting of a stretcher in an
aircraft cabin. The configuration and structure of the block and
bolt combination can be used in any situation where a mounting of
some flexibility or permissible movement is required or
advantageous. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that the
present invention, and, in this regard, the block and bolt portion
thereof, may have many potential applications and uses other than
in an aircraft context.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] In the drawings:
[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a block of a connector in
accordance with one aspect of the invention;
[0053] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the block shown in FIG. 1 of
the drawings, with a bolt partially inserted;
[0054] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a block and bolt in
accordance with the present invention wherein the bolt is inserted
in the block;
[0055] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the block and bolt shown
in FIG. 3 of the drawings;
[0056] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation showing the positioning
of an aircraft stretcher mounted between and over a seats in the
cabin of an aircraft;
[0057] FIG. 6 is a detailed view of a track in the floor of an
aircraft to which the connector of the present invention may be
secured;
[0058] FIG. 7 is a schematic representation showing a pair of
tracks in an aircraft, connectors on the tracks, and cross brackets
inserted thereon;
[0059] FIG. 8 is a detailed side view showing the mechanism by
means of which the connector is attached to the tracks, and part of
a stretcher attached to the connector;
[0060] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a connector in accordance
with a further aspect of the invention;
[0061] FIG. 10 is a top view of the connector shown in FIG. 9 of
the drawings;
[0062] FIG. 11 is a cross-section through the connector shown in
FIG. 9 of the drawings;
[0063] FIG. 12 is a detailed cross-section through a block and bolt
of a connector wherein the bolt is in the generally vertical
position;
[0064] FIG. 13 is a detailed cross-section through a block and bolt
of a connector showing the bolt and potentially three different
orientations thereof within the block;
[0065] FIG. 14 is a top view of a block shown in FIG. 15 of the
drawings;
[0066] FIG. 15 is a cross-section through a block in accordance
with one aspect of the invention;
[0067] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a block and bolt in
accordance with a further aspect of the invention, indicating
additionally in phantom lines just a few of the potential positions
which the bolt may have relative to the block;
[0068] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a connector in accordance
with a further aspect of the invention; and
[0069] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the connector shown in FIG.
17 of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0070] Reference is now made to the drawings, which show various
embodiments of a connector system in accordance with the invention,
and the positioning thereof in relation to an aircraft and medical
stretcher, wherein the connector serves as an intermediary
connection mechanism and form with attachment between the floor of
the aircraft and the medical stretcher. The medical stretcher would
be installed on an as needed basis, and removed for storage either
on or off the aircraft when not needed.
[0071] FIGS. 1 to 4 of the drawings show various perspectives of a
block and bolt in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 1 of
the drawings illustrates a connector system 10 comprising a block
12 having an upper surface 14 and a lower surface 16. The block 12
includes two lateral threaded apertures 18 and 20 by means of which
the block 12 may be secured to a substrate, such as, for example,
the tracking in a floor of an aircraft. The block 12 may be secured
to the substrate either directly or through an intermediary base
block, as will be described in a further embodiment below. In the
center of the block 12, there is a contoured recess or channel 22
extending through the entirety of the block 12. The contoured
channel 22 has a larger opening 24 into the lower surface 16 of the
block 12, and a smaller opening 26 into the upper surface 14 of the
block 12.
[0072] The apertures 18 and 20 are utilized for firmly securing
directly or in directly the block 12 to the substrate, such as a
track in the floor of an aircraft, by means of securing bolts. The
securing bolts may threadedly engage each of the apertures 18 and
20, and the apertures 18 and 20 are spaced from each other so that
the distance between them corresponds to registering threaded
apertures in the track on the floor of an aircraft or the base
block upon which they may be mounted. The securing bolts are firmly
tightened so as to secure the block 12. As mentioned, in a further
embodiment of the invention, described below, the block 12 itself
may be attached to a base, and the base in turn attached to the
substrate, such as the track in the floor of an aircraft.
[0073] A bolt 30 is received within the recessed or contoured
channel 22. The bolt 30 comprises a bolt head 32 and a threaded
shaft 34 the threaded shaft 34 has a diameter which allows it to
pass through the larger opening 24 as well as the smaller opening
26. In fact, the smaller opening 26 has a diameter which is
slightly larger than that of the shaft 34. The bolt head 32 has a
diameter which is a size that allows it to pass through the larger
opening 24, but wherein its diameter exceeds that of the small
opening 26. The head 32 will in use therefore normally be
accommodated within the contoured recess 22, and secured therein.
Further, the bolt 30 will cooperate with the block 12 such that it
may be inserted through the contoured recess 22. FIG. 2 of the
drawings shows the bolt 30 partially inserted through the contoured
recess or channel 22 of the block 12. FIG. 3 of the drawings shows
the bolt 30 inserted within the block 12 such that the shaft 34
extends outwardly and away from the upper surface 14 of the block
12, but wherein the bolt 30 is incapable of exiting the block 12
through the small opening 26. FIG. 4 of the drawings shows a top
perspective view wherein the shaft 34 of the bolt 30 can be seen
extending through the contoured aperture 22, beyond the upper
surface 14 of the block 12.
[0074] It will be seen, in a preferred embodiment, that the
diameter of the smaller opening 26 is larger than the diameter of
the shaft 34 so that the shaft will have some leeway within the
opening 26, and the tolerances will allow movement of the bolt 30
relative to the block 12, as will be described below. The smaller
opening 26 will not, however, allow passage therethrough of the
bolt head 32 which has a diameter exceeding that of the smaller
opening 26.
[0075] It will be seen from FIG. 1 of the drawings, as well as
subsequent illustrations herein, that the contoured channel or
recess 22 has a specific configuration which will allow the bolt 30
to move relative to the block 12 in a selected manner. In other
words, the position of the shaft 34 need not be restricted to one
in which its vertical axis is fixed relative to the block 12, but
may be capable of some swivelling or rotational movement.
[0076] The contoured channel 22 comprises a lower tubular or
generally cylindrical portion 44 and an upper arcuate portion 46.
The lower cylindrical portion 44 will generally have the same
diameter as the larger opening 24, and extend from the lower
surface 16 up through the block for a distance at least equal to
the thickness 50 of the bolt head 32, and in certain embodiments
may exceed the thickness 50 of the bolt head 32 by a small or
predetermined amount. The upper arcuate portion 46 extends from the
lower cylindrical portion 44 to the smaller opening 26. This upper
arcuate portion 46 thus has a diameter at one edge thereof
equivalent to that of the lower cylindrical portion 44, and a
diameter at the opposing end thereof equivalent to that of the
smaller opening 26.
[0077] The upper arcuate portion 46 may curve or arc in a line
representing a radius. However, the invention is not limited to
radial curvature of the arcuate portion 46, and other selected
shapes may be used.
[0078] The construction of the contoured recess 22, including the
lower cylindrical portion 44 and the upper arcuate portion 46
allows the bolt 30 to move within the contoured recess 22 in a
limited manner. When the lower surface 16 is mounted on a substrate
or platform, the bolt head 32 will be trapped within the contoured
recess 22. However, the configuration of the contoured recess 22,
and the fact that the smaller opening 26 may have a slightly larger
diameter than the shaft 34 of the bolt 30, permits the orientation
of the bolt 32 to vary relative to the block 12.
[0079] In use, the amount of such movement of the bolt 30 relative
to the block 12 can be controlled or modulated. It will be seen
that the threaded shaft 34 can receive one or more threaded nuts or
washers (illustrated in later figures). When the threaded washer is
tightened onto the shaft 34 so that it tightly abuts against the
upper surface 14 of the block 12, the bolt 30 will be more securely
fixed and little or no relative movement between the bolt 30 and
the block 12 will be permitted. In other words, a tightened washer
will cause the bolt head 32 to be firmly captured within the
contoured recess 22 so that it is incapable of movement therein.
However, selectively and incrementally loosening the nut or washer
will allow limited movement between the bolt 30 and the block 12 so
that the axis of the shaft 34 can move, and the bolt 30 can swivel
or move in a somewhat rotatory manner within the contoured channel
22, and relative to the block 12. It will be appreciated that the
extent to which the nut or washer may be loosened will modulate the
amount of such permitted movement. The looser the washer on the
shaft 34 of the bolt 30, the more permitted movement there will
be.
[0080] FIG. 5 of the drawings illustrates schematically the
placement of an aircraft stretcher 60 within the cabin of an
aircraft. The cabin has a floor 62 with appropriate tracking which
would normally be used for the securement of seats 64 to the floor
62. FIG. 6 of the drawings shows one particular type of track which
may be found in an aircraft, such as the Boeing 787, including a
series of equi-spaced apertures 66 formed in the track 68, whereby
seating or of the equipment may be firmly secured within the
cabin.
[0081] The aircraft stretcher 60 comprises a generally horizontal
laying surface 70 mounted on four legs 72 extending between the
laying surface 70 and the floor 62 of the aircraft, and located
between rows of seats 64. In this embodiment, the seat backs 71
have been folded downward to accommodate the laying surface 70.
Seat belts 72 may be used for the purpose of securing and
stabilizing the aircraft stretcher 60 when in its operative
position, in any one of several different configurations, one of
which is illustrated in FIG. 5 of the drawings. The four legs 72
forming part of the aircraft stretcher 60, which may be folded or
collapsed for storage purposes, attach to the front and rear
support bases 76 and 78, as illustrated in FIG. 7 of the drawings.
These front and rear support bases 76 and 78 attach to a connector
system 10 in accordance with the present invention, which is
intermediate the track 68 and the support bases 76 and 78. FIG. 8
of the drawings provides an end view of the arrangement, showing a
track 68 with apertures 66, the apertures 66 receiving a connector
base, which in turn supports the block 12 and the bolt 30. The bolt
30 connects to one of the legs 72 of the aircraft stretcher 60, and
when suitably adjusted as described herein, either ensures a firm
generally non-yielding connection between the aircraft stretcher 60
and the support bases 76 and 78, or by appropriate modulation a
somewhat flexible connection wherein small movements are tolerated
by virtue of the fact that the bolt 30 is able to move relative to
the block 12 based on its position within the contoured recess
22.
[0082] FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 show a further embodiment of a connection
system in accordance with the invention. In these drawings, there
is shown a base block 90 having two lateral apertures 92 and 94 by
means of which a pair of connecting bolts 96 and 98 may be used to
secure the base block 92 to the track located in the floor of an
aircraft cabin, as has been previously described. The connecting
bolts 96 and 98 comprise a head 100 and a threaded shaft 102. The
threaded shaft 102 threadedly engages with an expander 104
comprised of arms 106 separated by spaces 108. The arms 106 have
lower lips 110. As the connector bolt 96 threadedly engages the
expander 104, the arms 106 of the expander 104 move oppositely and
outwardly so that the lower lips 110 eventually engage the
underside or other part of a shelf or other appropriate structure
in the track. This ensures that the base block 90 is firmly secured
to the track. It will be appreciated that other forms of connection
between the base block and the track may be utilized, and the
invention is not limited to any one embodiment. In fact, the
mechanism of attachment may depend upon the nature of the
substrate, which in the case of an aircraft floor may further
depend upon the model of the aircraft, as well as its vintage and
other factors.
[0083] Each aperture 92 and 94 has inserted therein a sleeve 116.
The sleeve 116 is fixed within the apertures 92 and 94. The head
100 of the connecting bolt 96 moves within a portion of the sleeve
116, which has a shelf 118 setting the limits of downward movement
of the connecting bolt 96.
[0084] A block 120 is mounted on the upper surface 122 of the base
block 90. The block 120 has a pair of lateral threaded apertures
124 and 126, while the base block 90 includes a pair of
corresponding bores 128 and 130. A pair of block connectors 132 and
134 extend through the bores 128 and 130 and threadedly engage with
the apertures 124 and 126 respectively so that the block 120 is
securely mounted on the upper surface 122 of the base block 90, and
is incapable of movements thereon.
[0085] Prior to securement of the block 120 on the base block 90, a
bolt 140 is placed in the contoured recess or channel 142 so that
the threaded shaft 146 extends outwardly through an aperture of the
contoured recess 142, while the head 148 of the bolt 140 remains
secured in the contoured recess 142. A nut 150 (or washer) is
threaded onto the threaded shaft 146. It will be seen that, as long
as the nut 150 is not in a fully tightened position, the head 148
of the bolt 140 can move within the contoured recess 142. This
allows the shaft 146 to swivel or rotate slightly, so that its
axial orientation is varied. The shape of the head 148 as well as
the contoured channel or recess 142, which have been described
above, facilitate such movement of the head 148 within the
contoured recess 142. When the nut 150 is tight, the head 148 will
be raised to abut against the upper part of the block 120 defining
the contoured recess 142, and will be incapable of movement. As the
nut is selectively loosened, some movement of the bolt 140 will be
permitted to facilitate such swiveling or rotation.
[0086] FIGS. 12 and 13 of the drawings show a detail of a block 180
and bolt 182, wherein the head 184 of the bolt 182 is in a
contoured recess 186, and the shaft 188 of the bolt 182 extends
outwardly through opening 190. The configuration of the contoured
recess 186 is such that the bolt head 184 can move therein, in
various positions, as illustrated in FIG. 13 of the drawings. A
threaded washer 194 can be selectively tightened or loosened in
order to modulate or very the amount of movement permitted of the
bolt 182.
[0087] FIGS. 14 and 15 of the drawings show a detail of the block
180, FIG. 14 being a top view, and FIG. 15 being a sectional view.
FIG. 15 illustrates a slightly different and alternate
configuration of the contoured channel or recess 186. This
contoured recess 186 may take many different shapes, but the common
feature or characteristic of all of such shapes would be the
ability of the bolt head 184, and hence the bolt 182 itself, to be
capable of swiveling or rotatory movement within the contoured
recess 182.
[0088] FIG. 16 of the drawings shows a further perspective view of
a connecting system in accordance with the invention, wherein the
shaft of the bolt is capable of assuming a number of different
positions and orientations, while still being firmly secured within
the block. This is an important feature of the invention, namely, a
strong securement of the bolt to the substrate, but nevertheless
providing the bolt with the ability to have some limited
flexibility and movement, so that it will not present a rigid form
of attachment, and that some flexibility will be permitted in
response to forces, such as those which would normally be
encountered in an aircraft going through takeoff, landing, and
possible turbulence, all of which affect the motions of an aircraft
stretcher which may be supported by the connecting system.
[0089] With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, a further embodiment of
the invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, a base block 200
is provided, somewhat similar to the situation in previous
embodiments, but the upper surface 202 of the base block has a
recessed step 204 for receiving the block 206. The head of the bolt
208, when connected and the system is in operation, will be formed
in the contoured recess 210 which will be closed off at its lower
end by the upper surface of the recessed step 204. The recessed
step 204 provides additional strength to the connection between the
block 206 and the base block 200.
[0090] It will be seen that the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17
and 18 comprise a pair of threaded washers 212 and 214. The lower
washer 214, when fully tightened, prevents movement of the bolt 208
within the recessed aperture 210. The second upper threaded washer
212 may be screwed down the threaded shaft of the bolt 208 until it
firmly engages with the lower threaded washer 212, providing a more
secure attachment so that the lower threaded washer 212 will not
inadvertently, or in response to vibrations or other movement,
loosen. Such loosening will be essentially prevented by turning the
upper threaded washer 212 until it engages with the lower washer
214, wherever the lower washer 214 may be located. As will be
appreciated from the above description, the lower washer 214 may be
loosened along the length of the shaft of the bolt 208, and the
amount of such loosening will allow some flexibility of movement of
the bolt 208 relative to the block 206, to avoid in selective
increments the rigidity of the connection, as has been described
with reference to previous embodiments.
[0091] The invention is not limited to the details of construction
or the precise embodiments as illustrated herein. A significant
number of variations and modifications may be made for achieving
the same purpose, and these all fall within the scope of the
invention.
[0092] Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples
shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on
the apparatus and procedures disclosed or claimed. Although many of
the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of
method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those
acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish
the same objectives. Acts, elements and features discussed only in
connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from
a similar role in other embodiments.
[0093] As used herein, "plurality" means two or more. As used
herein, a "set" of items may include one or more of such items. As
used herein, whether in the written description or the claims, the
terms "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having",
"containing", "involving", and the like are to be understood to be
open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the
transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially
of", respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases
with respect to claims. Use of ordinal terms such as "first",
"second", "third", etc., in the claims to modify a claim element
does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of
one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts
of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to
distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another
element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to
distinguish the claim elements. As used herein, "and/or" means that
the listed items are alternatives, but the alternatives also
include any combination of the listed items.
* * * * *