Floor assembly and method of installing the same

Abstract

A floor assembly is provided. The floor assembly is configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or to be positioned on a floor of an enclosed space. The floor assembly includes a grid, a chassis, and a surround member. The grid has an array of openings configured to allow passage of liquid. The chassis is disposed below the grid and defines a cavity. The chassis includes a chassis floor and a frame. The frame is disposed laterally outside of the chassis floor and supports the grid. The surround member is supported by the frame. The surround member is disposed laterally outside of the grid, and the surround member and the grid do not overlap.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to assemblies and methods for providing a floor for collecting and / or removing liquids, such as lavatory floors within a commercial aircraft. BACKGROUND

[0002] In various environments, floors can be subject to spills or leaks of liquids. It can not be possible or practical to manually remove the liquids from the floor within a short time period that can be desired. For example, commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between various locations. During flight, particularly during transoceanic or other long-haul flights, passengers are typically confined to certain areas (e.g., cabins) of the aircraft. Various individuals (e.g., passengers, pilots, flight attendants, etc.) use certain interior portions of the aircraft during flight. For example, many individuals can use a lavatory within an interior cabin during flight. Liquids (e.g., from a sink) can spill onto the lavatory floor.

[0003] Aircraft lavatories are typically cleaned between flights. For example, maintenance or cleaning personnel board the aircraft on the ground prior to and / or after a flight to clean the lavatory. However, it can not be possible to clean on a regular basis during flight. As a result, the dryness of the lavatory floor on an aircraft can be compromised, particularly during flight. Furthermore, maintenance of floor assemblies for draining or removing liquids from the floor can be difficult or inconvenient in close quarters, such as typically found in aircraft lavatories. SUMMARY

[0004] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a floor assembly. The floor assembly is configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or to be positioned on a floor of an enclosed space. The floor assembly includes a grid, a chassis, and a surround member. The grid has an array of openings configured to allow passage of liquids. The chassis is disposed below the grid and defines a cavity. The chassis includes a chassis floor and a frame. The frame is disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor and supports the grid. The surround member is supported by the frame. The surround member is disposed laterally outward of the grid, and the surround member and the grid do not overlap.

[0005] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for installing a floor assembly configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or to be positioned on a floor of an enclosed space. The method includes positioning a chassis. The chassis defines a cavity and includes a chassis floor and a frame, where the frame is disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor. Further, the method includes disposing a grid over the cavity and supported by the frame of the chassis. The grid has an array of openings configured to allow passage of liquids. The method also includes positioning a surround member over the frame. The surround member is supported by the frame. The surround member is disposed laterally outward of the grid, and the surround member and the grid do not overlap.

[0006] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method. The method includes forming a chassis for a floor assembly. The floor assembly is configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or to be positioned on a floor of an enclosed space. The chassis defines a cavity and includes a chassis floor and a frame. The frame is disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor and defines an inner region and an outer region. The method also includes forming a ridge between the outer region and the inner region. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective top view of an aircraft is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 A top plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of a floor assembly is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 A plan view of a floor assembly is provided. Figure 3

[0011] A plan view of a floor assembly is provided. Figure 3 Figure 5 A perspective view of a chassis of a floor assembly is provided.

[0012] Figure 6 A side perspective view of a frame of a floor assembly is provided. Figure 3

[0013] A side perspective view of aspects of a floor assembly is provided. Figure 7 Figure 3 A side perspective view of aspects of a floor assembly is provided.

[0014] Figure 8 A side perspective view of aspects of a floor assembly is provided. Figure 3

[0015] A flowchart of a method for providing a floor assembly is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a dry floor, such as a lavatory floor. Embodiments can be used in a variety of facilities, such as within a lavatory of a vehicle, a public restroom in a building, a laboratory, etc. Examples of vehicles for use with various embodiments include an aircraft, a boat, or a ground vehicle, such as a bus or a train.

[0017] ​​​Various embodiments provide a method and a floor assembly that can have improved ease of use, including maintenance and replacement of components. Various embodiments can effectively and efficiently provide a dry lavatory floor that has improved convenience of service and maintenance on an aircraft, particularly during flight.

[0018] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a floor assembly (e.g., a dry floor assembly) for removing liquid from a floor or walking surface. Various embodiments can provide a grid or structure that sits above a removable absorbent pad that can be easily and conveniently removed for pad replacement and / or maintenance on the pan of the floor assembly. For example, in various embodiments, the perimeter portion of the floor assembly does not overlap with the grid, allowing the perimeter portion to remain in place when the grid is removed.

[0019] In various embodiments, the perimeter portion of the floor assembly is integrated with the dry floor tray or pan and the walls or other perimeter structure, such that the grid of the assembly can be removed without removing the perimeter portion. Any liquid that falls on the perimeter portion is directed toward the grid (and ultimately toward the absorbent member, e.g., a pad disposed beneath the grid). In various embodiments, the perimeter portion has a surface that is angled or sloped to direct liquid toward the grid. Because the grid can be removed with the perimeter portion left in place, maintenance (e.g., removal of a pad or liquid from the pan) is easily performed by lifting the grid.

[0020] Various embodiments can provide for removal of liquid from a floor. Moreover, various embodiments can provide for easily replaceable components that seamlessly integrate to existing infrastructure (e.g., aircraft infrastructure).

[0021] Figure 1 A perspective top view of an aircraft 10 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The aircraft 10 includes a fuselage 18. While various embodiments are discussed in connection with an aircraft, it can again be noted that other embodiments can be used in connection with other vehicles, such as a boat, or ground vehicles such as a bus or train, for example.

[0022] The fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 defines an interior cabin 30, which can include a cockpit, one or more work areas (e.g., a galley, personnel stowage areas, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and crew areas), and an aft area in which an aft lavatory area assembly can be positioned. The interior cabin 30 includes one or more lavatories, such as the lavatory 99 shown. Various embodiments of the present disclosure are configured to automatically dry the floor within the lavatory. Figure 2

[0023] ​Instead of airplanes, embodiments of this disclosure can be used with a variety of other means of transportation, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train carriages, ships, spacecraft, etc. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure can be used with respect to fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings. As an example, embodiments of this disclosure can be used to automatically dry the floor of a washroom, regardless of whether the washroom is inside a vehicle.

[0024] Figure 2 A top plan view of an aircraft interior compartment 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The interior compartment 30 can be... Figure 1 Inside the fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 shown.

[0025] One or more lavatories 99 may be located within the interior compartment 30. Each lavatory 99 includes a lavatory floor 98. The lavatory 99 may include a floor assembly (e.g., floor assembly 100) as discussed herein, which may be secured within a portion of the fuselage. The floor assembly 100 is configured to reduce or eliminate the amount of visible liquid on exposed overhead surfaces.

[0026] Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of the floor assembly 100 is shown. Figure 4 A plan view of the floor assembly 100 is shown. (As shown) Figure 3 As shown, the floor assembly 100 of the illustrated example includes a grid 110, a chassis 130, and a surrounding member 140. The floor assembly 100 may also include an absorbent member 195 (e.g., an absorbent pad). Optionally, a wicking layer and / or a support layer may be included. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). The floor assembly 100 is configured to form part of the floor 105 (e.g., lavatory floor 98) in an enclosed space 106 (e.g., an aircraft lavatory, a ship lavatory, or a lavatory in a ground vehicle such as a bus or train), or is configured to be positioned on or in the floor 105 of the enclosed space 106. Typically, the grille 110 provides a surface to be walked on and has openings through which liquids overflowing onto the walking surface pass.

[0027] The wicking layer is configured to direct liquid that has passed through the grid 110 to the chassis 130. The chassis 130 is used to collect, store, and / or guide liquid for treatment. For example, in Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the absorber 195 is disposed below the grid 110 (e.g., within the chassis 130) and is used to absorb liquid passing through the grid 110. For example, the absorber 195 may be replaced after absorbing a predetermined amount of liquid and / or at predetermined time intervals.

[0028] Because the grating 110 and the surround member 140 do not overlap (e.g., when viewed from above), the grating 110 can be conveniently removed to access the absorbent member 195 without removing the surround member 140. As shown, Figure 3 The innermost edge of the surround member 140 is located a distance X laterally outward of the outermost edge of the grating 110, such that the surround member 140 and the grating 110 do not overlap when viewed from above. In the illustrated example, the innermost edge of the surround member 140 is located a distance above the grating 110 and a distance laterally outward of the grating 110. In other embodiments, the surround member 140 and the grating 110 can be adjacent to each other and spaced apart a distance laterally. In some embodiments, the surround member 140 and the grating 110 can be laterally contiguous with each other.

[0029] While various embodiments herein are discussed in connection with use in a commercial aircraft (e.g., in an aircraft lavatory), it should be noted that alternative embodiments can be used in other applications. It should be noted that the examples of the grating 110 and the absorbent member 195 are provided as examples and not limitation.

[0030] As best shown in Figure 3 When the floor assembly 100 is in place, the chassis 130 is disposed below the grating 110. The chassis 130 includes a chassis floor 132 and a frame 134, with the frame 134 disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor 132 (e.g., further from the center point 103 along the direction 101). The frame 134 supports the grating 110. The chassis 130 defines a cavity 131. For example, the cavity 131 can be defined above the chassis floor 132 and between at least some portions of the frame 134. Generally, in various embodiments, the cavity is used to collect and / or remove liquid that accumulates in the chassis 130. For example, in the illustrated example, the cavity 131 is used to place the absorbent member 195. In other examples, the cavity 131 can be used to direct liquid through a drain or plumbing system, or as another example, the cavity 131 can define a reservoir for storing liquid for later removal.

[0031] In some examples, the chassis floor 132 and the frame 134 can be integrally formed from a single piece. In other examples, the chassis floor 132 and the frame 134 can initially be separate parts that are subsequently formed to form the chassis 130. For example, Figure 5 A perspective view of an example chassis 130 of the floor assembly 100 is provided. In Figure 5In the example of FIG. 1, the chassis floor 132 is manufactured using a metallic material, and the frame 134 of the chassis 130 is made of a plastic material. In various examples, the material used for the chassis floor 132 is selected to provide a desired stiffness while maintaining a desired weight. The metallic material in various implementations can provide a chassis floor with light weight, high strength, and high corrosion resistance. For example, in one example, the chassis floor 132 is formed of 0.020 inch (0.5 millimeter) thick titanium, which is bonded to the frame 134. In various examples, the frame 134 is molded to a desired shape.

[0032] For example, in various examples, the frame 134 is formed using a thermoplastic or thermoset plastic, which can or can not be fiber-reinforced as appropriate for a given application. The frame 134 can be molded as a single component, or alternatively can be formed from separately molded components that are subsequently bonded. In various implementations, the frame 134 (or at least an upper surface of the frame 134) is coated with a hydrophobic material to facilitate the flow of any liquid that lands on the frame 134 off of the frame 134. All or a portion of the frame 134 can be sloped toward the chassis floor 132 or the cavity 131 to direct the flow of liquid toward the absorbent material (e.g., the absorbent member 195) within the cavity 131.

[0033] With continued reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4 When the floor assembly 100 is assembled, the surround member 140 is supported by the frame 134. The surround member 140 is disposed laterally outward of the grid 110 (e.g., further from the center point 103 along the direction 101). The surround member 140 and the grid 110 do not overlap one another (e.g., when viewed from above as in FIG. 1). Thus, the grid 110 can be removed while leaving the surround member 140 in place, thereby improving the convenience and ease of access to the cavity 131 (e.g., to remove / replace the absorbent member 195 and / or to perform other cleaning or maintenance on the chassis floor 132). Figure 4

[0034] In various implementations, the surround member 140 is formed of a plastic material. Further, in various implementations, the surround member 140 (or at least an upper surface of the surround member 140) is coated with a hydrophobic material to facilitate the flow of any liquid that lands on the surround member 140 off of the surround member 140. All or a portion of the surround member 140 can be sloped toward the frame 134 and the chassis floor 132 or the cavity 131 to direct the flow of liquid toward the absorbent material (e.g., the absorbent member 195) within the cavity 131.

[0035] ​It should be noted that while the surround member 140 is depicted as a single component in the illustrated examples, the surround member 140 can include or be formed from multiple components. For example, in some examples, the surround member 140 is formed from four components, with one component on each side of the floor assembly 100.

[0036] Generally, the surround member 140 is formed to fit or complement the environment in which the floor assembly 100 is to be positioned. Thus, while the illustrated examples are shown as generally rectangular, it should be noted that various different shapes of surround members 140 can be employed in various implementations to accommodate or match structures within the environment in which the floor assembly 100 is positioned. Further, while the illustrated examples are shown as being supported solely by the frame 134, it should be noted that portions (e.g., portions positioned laterally outward of the frame 134) can be supported by the floor of the environment in which the floor assembly 100 is positioned, and / or an abutting wall, sink, or other structure in which the floor assembly 100 is positioned. Figure 3

[0037] As noted above, the surround member 140 (e.g., a portion of the surround member 140) is supported by the frame 134 (e.g., a portion of the frame 134). In various implementations, the surround member 140 and the frame 134 partially overlap when viewed from above (as in Figure 4 Figure 6 and Figure 7 As best shown in

[0038] The outer region 136 and the inner region 138 can be continuous, or can alternatively be separated by one or more intermediate portions. In various implementations, the surround member 140 can contact one or more portions of the outer region 136 laterally inward, but be bonded (e.g., using tape or other adhesive) to the outer region 136.

[0039] As best shown in Figure 6 Figure 6 ​​​As shown, the ridge 150 defines an outer ramp 152 (on the outer surface 153) and an inner ramp 154 (on the inner surface 155). The outer ramp 152 is laterally outward of the inner ramp 154. The outer ramp 152 slopes laterally outward and downward, and the inner ramp 154 slopes laterally inward and downward. Generally, the outer ramp 152 is configured to support the surround member 140 or otherwise cooperate with the surround member 140 to position and / or support the surround member, and the inner ramp 154 is configured to direct liquid toward the cavity 131 (e.g., an absorbent member 195 disposed within the cavity 131).

[0040] As noted above, portions of the frame and / or surround member can slope toward the cavity 131 or the chassis floor 132. In various embodiments, this slope can be generally continuous. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the outer ramp 152 of the ridge 150 and the inner ramp 154 of the ridge 150 are continuous. Figure 7 As best shown in FIG. 1 1, the depicted surround member 140 includes a lower surface ramp 142 (defined by the lower surface 141) that is complementary to the outer ramp 152 of the ridge 150 of the frame 134. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower surface ramp 142 and the outer ramp 152 are complementary in that the sum of the angle defined by the lower surface ramp 142 relative to horizontal and the angle defined by the outer ramp 152 relative to horizontal is approximately 180 degrees, thereby allowing for a seamless connection between the ramps while securely, accurately, and reliably positioning the surround member 140 relative to the frame 134.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 1 1, the surround member 140 extends slightly laterally inward further than the peak or apex of the ridge 150, which can ensure that liquid that flows from the surround member 140 is directed to the inner ramp 154 of the ridge 150 and ultimately toward the cavity 131. In the illustrated embodiment, the ramp defined by the upper surface 143 of the surround member 140 and the inner ramp 154 of the ridge 150 is generally continuous, providing a slope of approximately 15 degrees relative to horizontal. In various embodiments, the frame 134 (and / or other aspects of the floor assembly 100) includes features configured to improve the ease of installation and / or maintenance of the floor assembly 100. Figure 7 For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1 1, the frame 134 includes a plurality of alignment features 160 (e.g., protrusions) that are configured to align with corresponding alignment features 162 (e.g., recesses) of the surround member 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment features 160 are configured to align with the alignment features 162 when the surround member 140 is positioned on the frame 134. In various embodiments, the alignment features 160 and 162 are configured to align with one another when the surround member 140 is positioned on the frame 134, thereby providing a visual indication that the surround member 140 is properly positioned on the frame 134.

[0042] Figures 6 to 8 ​As best shown, the depicted frame 134 includes a trench 137. The trench 137 is laterally inward of the ridge 150 (e.g., within the interior region 138) and includes an opening 139 through the frame 134. In the illustrated example, the trench 137 extends along a generally straight line laterally outward of the cavity 131 on each side of the frame 134, with the opening 139 aligned along a line generally parallel to the line of the trench 137. The opening 139 is used to secure the grating 110 to the frame 134. For example, a magnet can be disposed in the opening 139 to removably secure the grating 110 (e.g., a metal strip of the grating 110) to the frame 134.

[0043] As Figures 6 to 8 As best shown, the depicted example frame 134 includes a notch 156 through the ridge 150. The notch 156 is sized and configured to allow a finger to be placed in the notch 156 to facilitate easy removal of the grating 110 using the finger. In the illustrated example, the notch 156 extends laterally outward beyond the ridge 150 and terminates at the boundary 133 of the exterior region 136. The lateral outward extension of the notch 156 beyond the ridge is configured to provide a sufficiently large notch to place a fingertip. Additionally, in the illustrated example, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As best shown, the surround member 140 has a complementary notch 144 that is aligned with the notch 156 of the frame 134, further improving the ease of placing a finger to remove the grating 110.

[0044] Figure 9 A flow diagram of a method 900 (e.g., for installing a floor panel or floor panel assembly (e.g., assembly 100) configured to form a floor of an enclosed space (e.g., an aircraft lavatory) or positioned on a floor of the enclosed space) is shown. It can be noted that one or more aspects of the depicted method 900 can be utilized in forming or manufacturing one or more portions of a floor panel assembly independently of installing the assembly or in conjunction with installation or assembly steps. The method 900 may, for example, employ structures or aspects of the various embodiments discussed herein. In various embodiments, certain steps (or operations) can be omitted or added, certain steps can be combined, certain steps can be performed simultaneously, certain steps can be performed concurrently, certain steps can be split into multiple steps, certain steps can be performed in a different order, or certain steps or series of steps can be re-performed in an iterative fashion.

[0045] At 902, a pan (e.g., pan 130) is positioned (e.g., within a pre-formed recess or other predetermined location proximate to a floor surface). For example, positioning the pan in various implementations includes positioning the pan in or on a portion of a floor (e.g., a portion of floor 105) in an enclosed space (e.g., enclosed space 106). For example, the pan can be sized to fit within an existing opening or recess of the floor, with the pan positioned within the existing opening or recess. The pan defines a cavity (e.g., cavity 131). In various implementations, the cavity is used to collect and / or remove liquid that accumulates in the pan (e.g., by containing an absorbent pad that absorbs the liquid, by directing the liquid through a plumbing system, or by storing the liquid in a reservoir defined by the cavity for later removal). The pan includes a frame (e.g., frame 134) and a pan floor (e.g., pan floor 132). The frame is disposed laterally outward of the pan floor. For example, the pan can be placed in or on a floor, such as a floor of a lavatory of an aircraft.

[0046] Various techniques can be used in forming the pan. For example, the pan can be formed by joining a metal pan floor with a plastic frame. In the illustrated example, at 904, forming the frame of the pan includes forming a ridge (e.g., ridge 150) on the frame, with the ridge interposed between the outer region 136 and the inner region 138. In various implementations, the ridge defines an outer ramp 152 that slopes laterally outward and downward, and an inner ramp 154 that slopes laterally inward and downward. Other features can be formed as part of the frame.

[0047] For example, in the illustrated example, at 906, a channel (e.g., channel 137) is formed in the frame. The channel is located laterally inward of the ridge, and includes an opening (e.g., opening 139) through the frame. For example, the opening can be used (e.g., in conjunction with a magnet) to secure or position the floor assembly in place for use.

[0048] As another example, at 908 of the illustrated implementation, a notch (e.g., notch 156) is formed in the frame. For example, in various implementations, the notch passes through the ridge of the frame. The notch can be used during removal of a grate from the floor assembly.

[0049] In the illustrated implementation, at 910, an absorbent member (e.g., absorbent member 195) is placed in the cavity of the pan. The absorbent member is used to collect liquid that is directed toward the pan. In other implementations, for example, the liquid can accumulate in the pan for later removal (e.g., via a vacuum), or can be directed from the pan via a drain or plumbing line.

[0050] At 912, a grid (e.g., providing grid 110) is positioned over the cavity and supported by the frame of the chassis. For example, the grid can include metal strips for securing the grid to the frame via magnets. The grid has an array of openings configured to allow liquid to pass from an upper surface of the grid into the cavity (e.g., into an absorbent member positioned in the cavity). Generally, the grid is configured to provide a support surface for walking or standing on, and also to provide openings for draining or removing liquid from the walking surface. In various implementations, the grid includes a member extending from a base to an upper surface configured for walking on. In the illustrated example, the frame includes an outer region and an inner region. Thus, in the illustrated example, positioning the grid includes positioning the grid in the inner region at 914.

[0051] At 916, a surround member (e.g., surround member 140) is positioned over the frame. The size and shape of the surround member can be tailored to the particular environment in which the floor assembly will be used. The surround member is supported by the frame and laterally disposed outside of the grid. As discussed herein, the surround member and the grid do not overlap (e.g., when viewed from above), thereby providing easy removal of the grid and access to the cavity for maintenance and / or service of the cavity and any associated components (e.g., absorbent member).

[0052] In the illustrated example, the frame includes an outer region and an inner region. Thus, in the illustrated example, positioning the surround member includes installing the surround member to the outer region at 918. Further, in the illustrated example, positioning the surround member includes, at 920, positioning a lower surface ramp of the surround member against an outer ramp of a ridge of the frame. Further, in the illustrated example, the surround member includes a complementary notch (e.g., complementary notch 144), and positioning the surround member includes, at 922, aligning the complementary notch of the surround member with a notch of the frame.

[0053] As discussed herein, by providing easy removal of the grid while leaving the surround member in place, various implementations improve the ease of use of the floor assembly. For example, in the illustrated implementation, after a period of use, when access to the cavity is needed, at 924, the grid is removed (e.g., via fingers placed in the notches of the frame) while the surround member remains in place. For example, with the grid removed, the absorbent member can be removed and replaced. Once the desired repair or maintenance activity has been performed on the cavity or associated components, the grid can be replaced in its position over the frame.

[0054] Further, the present disclosure includes implementations in accordance with the following examples:

[0055] Example 1. A floor assembly configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or to be positioned on a floor of an enclosed space, the floor assembly comprising: a grid having an array of openings configured to allow passage of a liquid; a chassis disposed below the grid, the chassis defining a cavity, the chassis including a chassis floor and a frame disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor and supporting the grid; and a surround member supported by the frame, wherein the surround member is disposed laterally outward of the grid, and wherein the surround member and the grid do not overlap.

[0056] Example 2. The floor assembly of Example 1, wherein the frame defines an outer region and an inner region, wherein the surround member is mounted to the outer region, and wherein the grid is supported in the inner region.

[0057] Example 3. The floor assembly of Example 2, wherein the frame includes a ridge interposed between the outer region and the inner region.

[0058] Example 4. The floor assembly of Example 3, wherein the ridge defines an outer ramp that slopes laterally outward and downward, and an inner ramp that slopes laterally inward and downward.

[0059] Example 5. The floor assembly of Example 4, wherein the surround member includes a lower surface ramp that is complementary to the outer ramp.

[0060] Example 6. The floor assembly of any one of Examples 3-5, wherein the frame includes a channel laterally inward of the ridge, the channel including an opening therethrough.

[0061] Example 7. The floor assembly of any one of Examples 3-6, wherein the frame includes a notch through the ridge.

[0062] Example 8. The floor assembly of Example 7, wherein the notch extends laterally outward beyond the ridge and terminates at a boundary of the outer region.

[0063] Example 9. The floor assembly of Example 8, wherein the surround member has a complementary notch that is aligned with the notch.

[0064] Example 10. The floor assembly of any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the chassis floor is composed of a metal material, and the frame of the chassis is composed of a plastic material.

[0065] Example 11. A method for installing a floor assembly configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or positioned on a floor of an enclosed space, the method comprising: positioning a chassis, the chassis defining a cavity, the chassis comprising a chassis floor and a frame disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor; disposing a grid over the cavity and supported by the frame of the chassis, the grid having an array of openings configured to allow passage of liquid; and positioning a surround member over the frame, the surround member supported by the frame, wherein the surround member is positioned laterally outward of the grid, and wherein the surround member and the grid do not overlap.

[0066] Example 12. The method of Example 11, wherein the frame defines an outer region and an inner region, the method comprising: installing the surround member to the outer region; and positioning the grid in the inner region.

[0067] Example 13. The method of Example 11 or 12, wherein the frame comprises a ridge defining an outer slope that slopes laterally outward and downward, wherein positioning the surround member over the frame comprises positioning a lower surface of the surround member against the outer slope of the ridge of the frame.

[0068] Example 14. The method of Example 13, wherein the chassis comprises a notch through the ridge, wherein the surround member has a complementary notch, wherein positioning the surround member over the frame comprises aligning the complementary notch of the surround member with the notch of the frame.

[0069] Example 15. The method of any of Examples 11-14, wherein positioning the chassis comprises positioning the chassis in a lavatory of a vehicle.

[0070] Example 16. The method of any of Examples 11-15, further comprising removing the grid while the surround member remains in place.

[0071] Example 17. A method for manufacturing a floor assembly, the method comprising: forming a chassis configured to form a floor of an enclosed space or positioned on a floor of an enclosed space, the chassis defining a cavity, the chassis comprising a chassis floor and a frame disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor and defining an inner region and an outer region; and forming a ridge between the outer region and the inner region.

[0072] Example 18. The method of Example 17, wherein forming the ridge comprises forming an outer slope that slopes laterally outward and downward, and forming an inner slope that slopes laterally inward and downward.

[0073] Example 19. The method of Example 17 or 18, comprising forming a trench laterally inward of the ridge, the trench comprising an opening therethrough.

[0074] Example 20. The method of any one of examples 17-19, comprising forming a notch through the ridge.

[0075] Although various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, middle, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front, back, and the like can be used herein to describe the various embodiments of the present disclosure, such terms are not intended to be used literally, but examined in the context of the entire description. Such terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device, such as those resulting from the device being turned, rotated, or otherwise manipulated.

[0076] As used herein, a structure, material, or element configured in a certain way is so configured in a manner that is commensurate with performance of the task or operation for which the structure, material, or element is being configured. For the purposes of clarity and avoiding ambiguity, an object that is capable of being modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform the task or operation as used herein.

[0077] It is to be understood that the above-referenced descriptions are intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the present disclosure, such embodiments are in no way limiting, but are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure upon reading the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead with reference to the appended claims, along with their full scope of equivalents. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms “including” and “comprising.” Also, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function devoid of further structure.

[0078] This written description uses examples to disclose various implementations of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice various implementations of the disclosure, including making and using any devices or assemblies and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various implementations of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements in common with the words of the claims or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the words of the claims.

[0079] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain implementations, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps unless explicitly so limited in the context by the contraction "only one". Further, unless explicitly stated otherwise, implementations including "comprising" or "having" an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property can include additional elements not having that property.

Claims

1. A floor assembly (100) configured to form a floor (105) of an enclosed space (106) or to be positioned on the floor of the enclosed space, the floor assembly (100) comprising: a grid (110) having an array of openings (139) configured to allow passage of liquid; a chassis (130) disposed below the grid (110), the chassis (130) defining a cavity (131), the chassis (130) comprising a chassis floor (132) and a frame (134), wherein the frame (134) defines an outer region (136) and an inner region (138), wherein the frame (134) comprises a ridge (150) interposed between the outer region (136) and the inner region (138), wherein the ridge (150) defines an outer ramp (152) sloping laterally outward and downward and an inner ramp (154) sloping laterally inward and downward, the frame (134) being disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor (132) and supporting the grid (110); and a surround member (140) supported by the frame (134), wherein the surround member (140) is mounted to the outer region (136) and the grid (110) is supported in the inner region (138), wherein the surround member (140) is disposed laterally outward of the grid (110), and wherein the surround member (140) and the grid (110) do not overlap.

2. The floor assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The surround member (140) comprises a lower surface ramp complementary to the outer ramp (152).

3. The floor assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The frame (134) comprises a channel (137) laterally inward of the ridge (150), the channel (137) comprising an opening (139) therethrough.

4. The floor assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The frame (134) comprises a notch (156) through the ridge (150).

5. The floor assembly (100) according to claim 4, wherein, The notch (156) extends laterally outward beyond the ridge (150) and terminates at a boundary (133) of the outer region (136).

6. The floor assembly (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The surround member (140) has a complementary notch (144) aligned with the notch (156).

7. The floor assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein, The chassis floor (132) is composed of a metal material and the frame (134) of the chassis is composed of a plastic material.

8. A method (900) for installing a floor assembly (100) configured to form a floor (105) of an enclosed space (106) or to be positioned on the floor of the enclosed space, the method (900) comprising: positioning a chassis (130) defining a cavity (131), the chassis (130) comprising a chassis floor (132) and a frame (134), the frame (134) comprising a ridge (150) defining an outer ramp (152) sloping laterally outward and downward, the frame (134) being disposed laterally outward of the chassis floor (132); positioning a surround member (140) over the frame (134), the surround member (140) being supported by the frame (134), wherein the surround member (140) is positioned laterally outside of the grid (110), and wherein the surround member (140) and the grid (110) do not overlap. and positioning a surround member (140) over the frame (134), the surround member (140) being supported by the frame (134), wherein the surround member (140) is positioned laterally outside of the grid (110), and wherein the surround member (140) and the grid (110) do not overlap.

9. The method (900) of claim 8, wherein, The frame (134) defines an outer region (136) and an inner region (138), the method (900) comprising: mounting the surround member (140) to the outer region (136); and positioning the grid (110) in the inner region (138).

10. The method (900) of claim 8, wherein, Positioning the surround member (140) over the frame (134) includes positioning a bevel of a lower surface (141) of the surround member (140) against the outer bevel (152) of the ridge (150) of the frame (134).

11. The method (900) of claim 10, wherein, The tray (130) includes a notch (156) through the ridge (150), wherein the surround member (140) has a complementary notch (144), wherein positioning the surround member (140) over the frame (134) includes aligning the complementary notch (144) of the surround member (140) with the notch (156) of the frame (134).

12. The method (900) of claim 8, wherein, Positioning the tray includes positioning the tray in a lavatory of a vehicle.

13. The method (900) of claim 8, further comprising removing the grid while the surround member remains in place.

14. A method for manufacturing a floor assembly, the method comprising: forming a tray configured to form or positioned on a floor of an enclosed space, the tray defining a cavity, the tray including a tray floor and a frame, the frame being positioned laterally outside of the tray floor and defining an inner region and an outer region; forming a ridge between the outer region and the inner region, wherein forming the ridge includes forming an outer bevel that slopes laterally outward and downward, and forming an inner bevel that slopes laterally inward and downward; positioning a surround member over the frame, wherein positioning the surround member over the frame includes positioning a bevel of a lower surface of the surround member against an outer bevel of the ridge of the frame; and forming a channel laterally inside of the ridge, the channel including an opening through the channel.

15. The method of claim 14, comprising forming a notch through the ridge.

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