Choosing the right motion device for a high-performance airline tray table is no easy task. While many linear bearings are available for tray tables that require only basic, jerky motion for economy-class seating, rail systems for first-class and business-class seats — which are typically designed to recline or even lie flat — must satisfy a long list of criteria. And passengers expect smooth, quiet motion from their tray table.
Here are some typical challenges designers must consider when selecting linear bearings for premium-tier seats aboard an airplane:
When designing tray tables for premium-class airplane seating, be sure to choose a telescoping linear bearing that balances heavy-duty load carrying capabilities with a sturdy, yet lightweight profile. Rollon’s Telescopic Rail family with caged ball bearings is made from high-strength carbon steel to handle heavy loads with good stiffness and minimal deflection — even at full extension. The series’ I-beam shape with a stiff cross section gives it a weight-reduced design with excellent rigidity. Induction hardened and ground raceways provide smooth, consistent movement when vibration, impact or shock loads occur. These characteristics provide long lifetimes of 50,000 cycles and more, depending on various design factors. Additional features include:
Telescopic Rails can be customized to satisfy abuse load requirements so the tray table can be stowed away even when deformed in an emergency. Rollon can also provide the right amount of mounting holes along with special locking devices to secure fasteners and make installation easy. Rollon can produce special versions and strokes upon request, so be sure to provide a Rollon product specialist your requirements for stroke length, load handling and life cycles as well as your tray table dimensions and other motion needs such as pivot or hinge elements.
When designing airplane seat tray tables, many linear bearings can fit the bill. Most can provide basic motion for economy-type seat tray tables, but first- and business-class type seats demand a higher performance telescoping linear bearing that can move heavier loads smoothly and quietly. Rollon’s Telescopic Rail family of linear bearings is designed to handle heavy loads at long extensions with minimal deflection so passengers can enjoy extra convenience and comfort throughout the flight.
For more information about Rollon’s Telescopic Rail family of linear bearings