Overhead stowage bins in aircraft

Apparatus for modifying an existing four-bar linkage that supports an overhead stowage bin in an aircraft and is operable for moving the stowage bin between open and closed positions, said four-bar linkage comprising a torsion bar mounted for rotation at a forward and upward position, an upper link having a forward end rigidly attached to the torsion bar and a rearward end that is pivotally connected to an upper rear portion of the stowage bin, a lower link having a rearward end that is pivotally attached to a lower rearward portion of the stowage bin and a forward end, and a gas spring that is pivotally connected at an upper first end to the upper link and at a lower second end to the forward end of the lower link, said apparatus comprising:

• a replacement lower link that is longer than the lower link that it replaces;
• a pivot mount for the rearward end of the replacement lower link adapted to pivotally connect the rearward end of the replacement lower link to a lower rearward portion of the stowage bin at a location that is rearwardly and above the pivotal connection for the rear end of the lower link that is being replaced;
• an additional link that is connected at a first end to the upper link and at a second end to the first end of the gas spring, for changing the location of the pivotal connection of the upper end of the gas spring to the upper link;
• a pivotal mount for the rearward end of the upper link adapted to pivotally connect the rearward end of the upper link to a location on the stowage bin that is below the former location of the pivotal connection;
• and
• said apparatus changing the open position of the overhead stowage bin in a way that lessens projection of the stowage bin into aisle space when the stowage bin is in its open position.