Ventilation system and method for an interior cabin of a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a ventilation system and method for an interior cabin of a vehicle, disclosing a system (100) comprising one or more distribution nozzles (106) associated with a seat (108) within an interior space and a return air grille (110) associated with the seat (108). An airflow (112) is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) towards and into the return air grille (110). A method comprises associating one or more distribution nozzles (106) with a seat (108) within an interior space, associating a return air grille (110) with the seat (108), and directing an airflow (112) from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) towards and into the return air grille (110).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this subject matter generally relate to ventilation systems and methods for internal compartments of vehicles such as commercial aircraft. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between different locations. Many commercial vehicles, such as aircraft, have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in their air conditioning systems, which are capable of capturing microorganisms and pathogens. HEPA filters receive and clean the air leaving or about to enter the cabin. HEPA filters and frequent cabin cleaning between flights are some of the ways to ensure the health of passengers and crew on board aircraft.

[0003] Furthermore, some passengers may prefer to wear masks inside the cabin of a vehicle to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens. However, wearing a mask during long-haul flights, for example, may make some passengers uncomfortable. Summary of the Invention

[0004] There is a need for a system and method for preventing, minimizing or otherwise reducing the spread of pathogens among passengers on a means of transport, such as between passengers in the interior compartments of an aircraft during flight, without risking harm to passengers.

[0005] In view of this need, certain embodiments disclosed in this subject matter provide a system including one or more distribution nozzles associated with a seat within an interior space and a return air grille associated with the seat. Airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, one or more distribution nozzles are located above the seat, and a return air grille is located below at least a portion of the seat. For example, at least a portion of the seat includes a cushion on which a passenger sits.

[0007] As an example, one or more distribution nozzles may include at least five distribution nozzles.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the air distribution subsystem provides clean air to one or more distribution nozzles.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, one or more outflow valves are fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the air filtration subsystem is fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

[0011] As an example, one or more distribution nozzles are part of a passenger service unit inside the interior cabin of a vehicle.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, a side return air grille is disposed in one or both of the side wall or floor of the interior space. The return air grille is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the return air grille is installed on the floor of the interior space. In at least one other embodiment, the return air grille is installed in part of the seating area.

[0014] As a further example, the system also includes one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

[0015] As a further example, the system includes a pressurization chamber installed in the floor of the interior space. The pressurization chamber includes a filter and a fan.

[0016] Some embodiments disclosed in this subject provide a method comprising: associating one or more distribution nozzles with a seat within an interior space; associating a return air grille with the seat; and directing airflow from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

[0017] Some embodiments disclosed in this subject matter provide a vehicle including an interior compartment, a plurality of seats within the interior compartment, and a ventilation system including one or more distribution nozzles and a return air grille associated with each of the plurality of seats. Airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 The figure shows a schematic diagram of a ventilation system for an interior compartment of a vehicle according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0019] Figure 2 The figure shows an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment of a vehicle according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0020] Figure 3 The figure shows a simplified interior view of a portion of an interior compartment according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter, wherein distributed nozzles are positioned above the passengers.

[0021] Figure 4 The figure shows a perspective top view of a passenger service unit according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0022] Figure 5 The diagram shows Figure 4 A top view of the passenger service unit.

[0023] Figure 6 The figure shows a perspective view of a passenger in a seat within an interior cabin according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0024] Figure 7 The figure shows a perspective view of a return air grille disposed under the seat cushion of a seat according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0025] Figure 8 The figure shows a simplified side view of a seat according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0026] Figure 9 The figure shows an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment of a vehicle according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0027] Figure 10 The figure shows an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment of a vehicle according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0028] Figure 11 The figure shows a perspective front view of an aircraft according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0029] Figure 12A The figure shows a top plan view of the interior compartment of an aircraft according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0030] Figure 12B The figure shows a top plan view of the interior compartment of an aircraft according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0031] Figure 13 The figure shows a perspective interior view of the interior compartment of an aircraft according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter.

[0032] Figure 14 The figure illustrates a flowchart of a ventilation method for an interior space such as an internal compartment of a vehicle, according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As used herein, elements or steps described in the singular and preceded by the words "a" or "an" should be understood to not necessarily exclude multiple elements or steps. Furthermore, the reference to "an embodiment" is not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that are also incorporated into the described features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated otherwise, embodiments that "comprise" or "have" one or more elements with a specific condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0034] Certain embodiments disclosed in this subject matter provide ventilation systems for interior spaces, such as the interior cabins of vehicles like commercial aircraft. The ventilation system includes one or more distribution nozzles associated with seats and return air grilles associated with seats. In at least one embodiment, each seat within the interior cabin has one or more distribution nozzles and an associated return air grille. For example, one or more distribution nozzles are positioned above the seat, and the return air grille is mounted below and / or above a portion of the seat. In this way, airflow is directed in a vertical direction relative to the seat. By providing airflow directed downward relative to the seat, fresh, clean air is provided to the passenger in the seat, while minimizing or otherwise reducing the air introduced into the breathing zone (such as from passengers seated by the seat). The air is received by the return air grille and directed away from the passenger and other passengers within the interior cabin. In this way, the embodiments disclosed in this subject matter are configured to provide plug airflow (also known as unidirectional flow or piston flow) or near-plug airflow performance within the interior cabin, which minimizes or otherwise reduces the possibility of pathogen transmission among passengers within the interior cabin.

[0035] Certain embodiments disclosed in this subject matter provide a ventilation system that provides airflow above passengers. The airflow moves vertically downwards to a return air grille associated with seats within the interior cabin. The downward vertical airflow provides a path for clean air to passengers and ventilates air exhaled by passengers away from other passengers. The ventilation systems and methods described herein reduce the spread of pathogens within the interior cabins of a vehicle.

[0036] Figure 1 The figure illustrates a schematic diagram of a ventilation system 100 for an interior compartment 104 of a vehicle 104 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. In at least one embodiment, the vehicle 104 is a commercial aircraft. The interior compartment 104 is an example of an interior space. Other examples of interior spaces include rooms within a building.

[0037] The ventilation system 100 includes one or more distribution nozzles 106 associated with seats 108 within the interior compartment 104. For example, each seat 108 is assigned or otherwise provided with its own distribution nozzle(s) 106. Further, return air grilles 110 are associated with the seats 108. For example, each seat 108 is assigned or otherwise provided with its own return air grille 110.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, one or more distribution nozzles 106 are positioned above seat 108, and a return air grille 110 is disposed (e.g., mounted) below and / or on a portion of seat 108. In at least one embodiment, each seat 108 within interior compartment 104 is associated with one or more distribution nozzles 106 and return air grille 110. In at least one other embodiment, fewer than all seats 108 within interior compartment 104 are associated with one or more distribution nozzles 106 and return air grille 110.

[0039] In at least one embodiment, one or more distribution nozzles 106 include at least two distribution nozzles 106. For example, five or more distribution nozzles 106 may be associated with seat 108. Increasing the number of distribution nozzles 106 in the interior compartment 102 reduces but more evenly distributes the flow rate of the airflow 112 exiting from the distribution nozzles 106. Alternatively, a single distribution nozzle 106 may be associated with seat 108.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, one or more distribution nozzles 106 are configured to provide an air curtain that directs airflow toward the return air grille 110. The air curtain may be directed in front of the passenger within seat 108 to the side and / or rear of the passenger within seat 108.

[0041] One or more distribution nozzles 106 are positioned above seat 108, and a return air grille 110 is positioned below the seat cushion 114 of seat 108 on which a passenger sits. Thus, airflow 112 is directed downwards from the distribution nozzles 106 to the return air grille 110. Because airflow 112 is directed vertically downwards from the distribution nozzles 106 to the return air grille 110, turbulence or mixing is reduced. This allows airflow 112 to flow smoothly around obstacles such as a portion of seat 108 and the passenger sitting on seat 108. In this way, clean, fresh air is provided to the passenger on seat 108. The passenger inhales fresh, clean air and exhales it, which is then directed into the return air grille 110 by the downward-flowing airflow 112. Therefore, contaminants, pathogens, or the like are less likely to mix with the air in the interior cabin and are instead directed into the return air grille 110. Optionally, airflow 112 can be turbulent or semi-turbulent.

[0042] In at least one embodiment, the airflow 112 is directed over the passenger's head and / or directed into and / or toward the passenger's breathing zone. In this way, the airflow 112 carries away expelled bioaerosols (e.g., from speaking, sneezing, coughing, breathing, or the like), which are then directed into the return air grille 110.

[0043] One or more distribution nozzles 106 are fluidly coupled to the air distribution subsystem 116 of the vehicle 104 via one or more air ducts 118 (such as one or more pipes, one or more ducts, one or more pressurization chambers, and / or the like). A return air grille 110 is fluidly coupled to one or more outlet valves 120 and / or an air filtration subsystem 122 (such as including one or more air filters, fans, and the like) via one or more air ducts 124 (such as one or more pipes, one or more ducts, one or more pressurization chambers, and / or the like). The air filtration subsystem 122 is then fluidly coupled to the air distribution subsystem 116 via one or more air ducts 126 (such as one or more pipes, one or more ducts, one or more pressurization chambers, and / or the like). Optionally, the ventilation system 100 may not include the air filtration subsystem 122. Conversely, the return air grille 110 may only be coupled to one or more outlet valves 120. In some alternatives, the ventilation system 100 may not include one or more outlet valves 120. Conversely, the return air grille 110 can be coupled only to the air filtration subsystem 122.

[0044] In operation, the air distribution subsystem 116 supplies fresh, clean air to one or more distribution nozzles 106. For example, the air distribution subsystem 116 supplies fresh, clean air drawn from outside the vehicle 104 to one or more distribution nozzles 106. As a further example relating to commercial aircraft, air is drawn from the engine and received by an air conditioning subsystem, such as under the wing box or otherwise close to the wing box. The air conditioning subsystem receives high-pressure hot air from the engine and regulates the air, then outputs it as cold, dry, and low-pressure air, which is then delivered to the bulkheads in the pressurized area of ​​the aircraft. This air can then be mixed in a mixing chamber that also receives purified and clean air from the air filtration subsystem 122. The mixed air can then be delivered by the air distribution subsystem 116 as fresh, clean air.

[0045] Distributor nozzle 106 receives clean, fresh air from air distribution subsystem 116 and outputs airflow 112, which is laminar in a downward vertical direction from above the passenger in seat 108 in the direction of arrow A (i.e., from above the passenger to below the passenger) toward return air grille 110. Alternatively, airflow 112 can be turbulent or semi-turbulent. In this way, the passenger in seat 108 is provided with fresh, clean air. Air exhaled by the passenger in seat 108 is drawn downward by airflow 112 into return air grille 110 and / or onto surfaces (such as the floor, armrests, passenger clothing, and / or the like), which can be cleaned later. Therefore, air exhaled by the passenger (including any contaminants, pathogens, or the like) does not mix with the air in interior compartment 104 but is instead drawn into return air grille 110. The airflow received by the return air grille 110 is then directed to an outlet valve 120, which discharges the air out of the vehicle 104 and / or into an air filtration subsystem 122, which includes filters (such as HEPA filters) that remove contaminants, pathogens, and the like from the air. The purified air is then delivered to an air distribution subsystem 116 via one or more air ducts 126.

[0046] As described herein, the ventilation system 100 includes one or more distribution nozzles 106 associated with seats 108 within an interior space such as an interior compartment 104. A return air grille 110 is also associated with the seats 108. Airflow 112 is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles 106 toward and into the return air grille 110.

[0047] Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, the vehicle 104 includes an interior compartment 104. A plurality of seats 108 are located within the interior compartment 104. The ventilation system 100 includes one or more distribution nozzles 106 and a return air grille 110 associated with each of the plurality of seats 108. Airflow 112 is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles 106 toward and into the return air grille 110.

[0048] Figure 2 The figure shows an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 of a vehicle 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, three seats 108 can be arranged in a row. Distribution nozzles 106 are disposed above each seat 108. Further, return air grilles 110 are disposed below the seat cushions 114 of each seat 108. Airflow 112 flows in a downward direction as indicated by arrow A from the distribution nozzles 106 above the seats 108 and around the seats 108 (and the passengers within the seats 108) into the return air grilles 110.

[0049] In at least one embodiment, the distribution nozzle 106 is part of, connected to, or otherwise close to (such as within 6 inches or less) a passenger service unit (PSU) 200 located outside and below the luggage compartment assembly 202. Further, the return air grille 110 is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille 204, such as via an air duct 208 positioned on the side wall 206 of the floor 210 near the interior compartment 102. Air received by the return air grille 110 associated with the seat 108 is drawn into the side return air grille 204 and can then be drawn at low pressure into an outflow valve 120 and / or an air filtration subsystem 122 located below the floor 210 of the interior compartment 104. Alternatively, the return air grille 110 may be directly coupled to the outflow valve 120 and / or the air filtration subsystem 122, without being in fluid communication with the side return air grille 204.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the distribution nozzle 106 is part of the PSU 200. For example, the distribution nozzle 106 is an air nozzle, outlet, or the like of the PSU 200. In at least another embodiment, the distribution nozzle 106 is different from the PSU 200. For example, the distribution nozzle 106 may be part of a gasper air source.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, a plurality of distribution nozzles 106 are associated with each seat 108. For example, four to ten distribution nozzles 106 are associated with each seat 108. Alternatively, a single distribution nozzle 106 is associated with each seat 108. In some examples, one or more distribution nozzles 106 are configured to direct an air curtain downward in front of one or more seats, in front of the passenger in the seat, to the passenger side and / or the like. For example, one or more distribution nozzles 106 are aimed toward a return air grille 110 such that the air curtain entrains cabin air as well as air exhaled by the passenger in seat 108, which then flows into the return air grille 110.

[0052] Figure 3 The figure illustrates a simplified interior view of a portion of an interior compartment 104 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter, wherein a distribution nozzle 106 is disposed above a passenger 214. As a non-limiting example, the distribution nozzle 106 is coupled to one or more vent booster fans 216 mounted within a pressurization chamber 218 of a PSU 200.

[0053] From air distribution subsystem 116 ( Figure 1Fresh air 221 (as shown) is delivered to the vent booster fan 216 via the air distribution duct 220. Fresh air 221 flows out from the outlet 222 of the air distribution duct 220 and is drawn into the inlet 224 of the PSU 200, such as via the vent booster fan 216. The vent booster fan 216 then outputs the fresh air 221 via the distribution nozzle 106 as an airflow 112 (as shown) above the passenger 214 and toward the return air grille 110. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, as described herein. In some examples, general cabin air is drawn into the PSU 200 by the vent booster fan 216, travels through a HEPA filter within the PSU 200, and then exits from the distribution nozzle 106 toward the return air grille.

[0054] Figure 4 The figures illustrate embodiments disclosed in this subject matter. Figure 3 A three-dimensional top view of the PSU 200. Figure 5 The diagram shows Figure 4 A top view of passenger service unit 200. (Reference) Figure 3-5 One or more fans 230 and / or filters 232 (such as HEPA filters) may be disposed within the pressurization chamber 218. Multiple inlets 224 may be formed in the PSU 200. An outlet 234 is formed in the PSU 200. A distribution nozzle 106 extends into and / or through the outlet 234.

[0055] The PSU 200 may include multiple distribution nozzles 106. For example, the PSU 200 may include at least three distribution nozzles 106.

[0056] Figure 3-5 A non-limiting example of one or more distribution nozzles 106 as part of a PSU 200 is shown. It should be understood that this is merely an example. The PSU 200 may include more or fewer distribution nozzles 106 than shown. Furthermore, the distribution nozzles 106 may be arranged differently from those shown. In some embodiments, the distribution nozzles 106 may be separate from and distinct from the PSU 200. That is, the PSU 200 may not include the distribution nozzles 106 as described herein. Furthermore, the one or more distribution nozzles 106 may or may not be directly or indirectly coupled to one or more vent booster fans.

[0057] Figure 6The figure illustrates a perspective view of a passenger 214 in a seat 108 within an interior compartment 104 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. As shown, a return air grille 110 is mounted on (and / or inside) the floor 210 of the interior compartment 104 below the seat cushion 114. In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is located below the seat cushion 114 of each seat 108.

[0058] Figure 7 The figure shows a perspective view of a return air grille 110 disposed under the seat cushion 114 of a seat 108 according to an embodiment disclosed herein. In at least one example, the return air grille 110 includes a housing 240 having a peripheral frame 242 that holds a panel 244 having a plurality of inlet passages 246. Airflow 212 is drawn into the return air grille 110 through the inlet passages 246. The return air grille 110 may include internal baffles to balance the received airflow 112. The return air grille 110 may be a pad supported on a floor 210. Alternatively, the return air grille 110 may be at least partially recessed into the floor 210.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is attached to a seat rail fitting of the seat 108. The seat rail fitting positions the seat onto a seat rail within the interior compartment 104. Alternatively, the return air grille 110 may not be attached to a seat rail fitting. For example, the return air grille 110 may be directly mounted to the floor 210, such as by separate and different fasteners, adhesives, and / or the like. In some examples, the return air grille 110 may be integrally formed with the floor 210.

[0060] In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is coupled to the side return air grille 204 via a duct 208. Figure 2 (as shown in the diagram). As an example, air duct 208 may be or otherwise include a flexible hose, tube, or the like.

[0061] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The return air grille 110 is parallel to the floor 210. For example, the return air grille 110 is horizontally oriented relative to the interior compartment 104. Alternatively, the return air grille 110 may be oriented differently.

[0062] Figure 8The figure illustrates a simplified side view of a seat 108 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. In this embodiment, the return air grille 110 is below the seat cushion 114 but orthogonal to the floor 210. For example, the return air grille 110 is upright relative to the floor, such as being vertically oriented relative to the interior compartment 104. In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is mounted to at least a portion of the seat 108, such as one or more portions supporting the legs of the seat 108 on the floor 210. As shown, the return air grille 110 may be positioned below the seat cushion 114 and configured to be located behind the lower legs 215 of the seated passenger 214.

[0063] Figure 9 The figure illustrates an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 of a vehicle 104 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. In this embodiment, in addition to distribution nozzles 106 located directly above one or more seats 108, one or more distribution nozzles 106 are also located above an aisle 250 within the interior compartment 104. For example, the additional distribution nozzles 106 are located at a centerline ceiling position within the interior compartment 104. The distribution nozzles 106 provide additional airflow 112, such as to inside passengers who may not be directly below the distribution nozzles 106.

[0064] Figure 10 The figure illustrates an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 of a vehicle 104 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. In at least one example, the interior compartment 104 includes a first outer group 108a of seats 108, a middle group 108b of seats 108, and a second outer group 108c of seats 108. The first outer group 108a is separated from the middle group 108b by a first aisle 250a, and the second outer group 108c is separated from the middle group 108b by a second aisle 250b.

[0065] As an example, the middle group 108b of seat 108 includes a floor-mounted (or seat-mounted) pressurization chamber 260 having a filter 262 (such as a HEPA filter) and a fan 264. Air is drawn into the pressurization chamber 260 by the fan 264, routed through the filter 262, and ejected into aisles 250a and 250b near the floor 210. The floor-mounted pressurization chambers 270 of the first outer group 108a and the second outer group 108c draw the air ejected from the pressurization chamber 260 and route the drawn air to the side return air grille 208. Figure 1 (as shown), return air grille 110 and / or similar, as described herein.

[0066] refer to Figure 1-10The embodiments disclosed in this subject matter provide systems and methods for generating an airflow 112 (such as a smooth laminar airflow) above passengers within an interior compartment 104. The airflow 112 flows in a top-down direction from a distribution nozzle 106 above the passengers toward and into a return air grille 110 positioned below at least a portion of the passengers. The smooth laminar flow provides fresh, clean air for passenger breathing while also drawing exhaled air into the return air grille 110, thereby preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the likelihood of exhaled air remaining within the interior compartment 104 (compared to turbulent, circulating airflow).

[0067] Figure 11 The figure shows a perspective front view of an aircraft 310 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. Aircraft 310 is... Figure 1 Example of vehicle 104 shown.

[0068] For example, aircraft 310 includes a propulsion system 312, which includes engines 314. Optionally, propulsion system 312 may include more engines 314 than shown. Engines 314 are carried by wings 316 of aircraft 310. In other embodiments, engines 314 may be carried by fuselage 318 and / or tail 320. Tail 320 may also support horizontal stabilizer 322 and vertical stabilizer 324.

[0069] The fuselage 318 of the aircraft 310 defines an interior compartment 330, which includes a cockpit or pilot's cabin, one or more work sections (e.g., galley, personal carry-on baggage area and the like), one or more passenger sections (e.g., first class, business class and long-haul cabin sections), one or more lavatories and / or the like.

[0070] Alternatively, instead of aircraft, the embodiments disclosed in this subject matter can be used in a variety of other means of transportation, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and railcars, ships and the like. Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed in this subject matter can be used relative to fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings (e.g., theaters, concert venues, auditoriums, classrooms, stadiums, grocery stores, office buildings, hospitals and the like).

[0071] Figure 12A The figure shows a top plan view of an internal compartment 330 of an aircraft according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. The internal compartment 330 can be located within the fuselage 332 of the aircraft, such as... Figure 11The fuselage 318. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior compartment 330. The interior compartment 330 includes multiple sections, including a forward section 333, a first-class section 334, a business-class section 336, a forward galley station 338, an extended economy or long-haul compartment section 340, a standard economy section 342, and a rear section 344, which may include multiple lavatories and galley stations. It should be understood that the interior compartment 330 may include more or fewer sections than shown. For example, the interior compartment 330 may not include a first-class section and may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each of the sections may be separated by a compartment transition area 346, which may include class separation components between aisles 348.

[0072] like Figure 12A As shown, the interior compartment 330 includes two passageways 350 and 352 leading to the aft section 344. Alternatively, the interior compartment 330 may have fewer or more passageways than shown. For example, the interior compartment 330 may include a single passageway extending through the center of the interior compartment 330 and leading to the aft section 344.

[0073] Passageways 348, 350, and 352 extend to an exit path or doorway 360. An exit door 362 is located at the end of the exit path 360. The exit path 360 may be perpendicular to passageways 348, 350, and 352. The interior compartment 330 may include additional exit paths 360 in different orientations than shown. Regarding... Figure 1-10 The ventilation system 100 shown and described is configured for use within the interior compartment 330.

[0074] Figure 12B The figure shows a top view of the interior compartment 380 of an aircraft according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. The interior compartment 380 is... Figure 11 An example of an interior compartment 330 is shown. An interior compartment 380 may be located within the fuselage 381 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior compartment 380. The interior compartment 380 includes multiple sections, including a main compartment 382 with passenger seats 383 and a tail section 385 located aft of the main compartment 382. It should be understood that the interior compartment 380 may include more or fewer sections than shown.

[0075] The interior compartment 380 may include a single aisle 384 leading to the aft section 385. The single aisle 384 may extend through the center of the interior compartment 380 leading to the aft section 385. For example, the single aisle 384 may be coaxially aligned with the central longitudinal plane of the interior compartment 380.

[0076] Aisle 384 extends to exit path or door passage 390. Exit door 392 is located at the end of exit path 390. Exit path 390 may be perpendicular to aisle 384. Interior compartment 380 may include more exit paths than shown. (Regarding...) Figure 1-10 The ventilation system 100 shown and described is configured for use within the interior compartment 380.

[0077] Figure 13 The figure shows a perspective interior view of an aircraft's interior compartment 400 according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. The interior compartment 400 includes an outer wall 402 connected to a ceiling 404. Windows 406 may be formed within the outer wall 402. A floor 408 supports rows of seats 410. Figure 13 As shown, a row 412 may include two seats 410 on either side of the aisle 413. However, the row 412 may include more or fewer seats 410 than shown. Additionally, the interior compartment 400 may include more aisles than shown.

[0078] The PSU 414 is positioned between the ceiling 404 on either side of the outer wall 402 and the aisle 413. The PSU 414 extends between the front and rear ends of the interior compartment 400. For example, the PSU 414 may be positioned above each seat 410 within row 412. Each PSU 414 may include a housing 416 above each seat 410 (or seat group) within row 412, which typically includes vents, reading lights, oxygen bag dispensing panels, steward request buttons, and other such controls.

[0079] The overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 is mounted above the ceiling 404 and / or on the inner outer wall 402 of the PSU 414, which originates on either side of the aisle 413. The overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 is mounted above the seat 410. The overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 extends between the front and rear ends of the interior compartment 400. Each luggage compartment assembly 418 may include a pivotally mounted backrest (in... Figure 13 The pivot compartment or bin 420 (hidden from view) is a cargo box or bin. The overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 can be positioned above and inside the lower surface of the PSU 414. The overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 is configured to pivot open to receive, for example, passenger carry-on luggage and personal belongings.

[0080] As used herein, the term "outer side" refers to a position further away from the central longitudinal plane 422 of the interior compartment 400 compared to another component. The term "inner side" refers to a position closer to the central longitudinal plane 422 of the interior compartment 400 compared to another component. For example, the lower surface of PSU 414 may be outer side relative to luggage compartment assembly 418.

[0081] about Figure 1-10The ventilation system 100 shown and described is configured for use within the interior compartment 400.

[0082] Figure 14 The figure illustrates a flowchart of a ventilation method for an interior space (such as the interior compartment of a vehicle) according to an embodiment disclosed in this subject matter. The method includes associating one or more distribution nozzles with seats within the interior space at 500; associating a return air grille with a seat at 502; and directing airflow from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille at 504.

[0083] In at least one example, the association of one or more distribution nozzles includes positioning one or more distribution nozzles above the seat. Further, in at least one example, the association of the return air grille includes arranging the return air grille below at least a portion of the seat.

[0084] In at least one example, the method also includes supplying clean air to one or more distribution nozzles via an air distribution subsystem.

[0085] In at least one example, the method further includes fluidly coupling one or more outflow valves to a return air grille.

[0086] In at least one example, the method also includes fluidly coupling the air filtration subsystem to the return air grille.

[0087] In at least one example, the method further includes: placing a side return air grille into one or both of the side wall or floor of the interior space; and fluidly coupling the return air grille to the side return air grille.

[0088] As a further example, the method includes mounting a return air grille to the floor of the interior space. In some examples, the method includes mounting the return air grille to a portion of the seating area.

[0089] In at least one embodiment, the method further includes providing one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

[0090] In at least one embodiment, the method further includes mounting a pressurization chamber with a filter and a fan to the floor of the interior space.

[0091] As described herein, the embodiments disclosed in this subject matter provide systems and methods for preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the spread of pathogens among passengers on a means of transport during travel, such as among passengers in the interior compartments of an aircraft during flight, without risking harm to passengers.

[0092] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments as described in accordance with the following terms:

[0093] Clause 1. A system comprising:

[0094] One or more distribution nozzles associated with the seats within the interior space; and

[0095] The air intake grille associated with the seats.

[0096] The airflow is directed from one or more distribution nozzles toward the return air grille and into the return air grille.

[0097] Clause 2. The system according to Clause 1, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles are above the seat, and wherein the return air grille is below at least a portion of the seat.

[0098] Clause 3. The system described in Clause 2, wherein at least a portion of the seat comprises a cushion on which the passenger sits.

[0099] Clause 4. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-3, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles comprise at least five distribution nozzles.

[0100] Clause 5. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-4 further includes an air distribution subsystem that provides clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles.

[0101] Clause 6. The system described in any of Clauses 1-5 further comprises one or more outflow valves fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

[0102] Clause 7. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-6 further comprises an air filtration subsystem fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

[0103] Clause 8. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-7, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles are part of a passenger service unit within the interior cabin of the vehicle.

[0104] Clause 9. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-8 further comprises a side return air grille disposed in one or both of the side walls or the floor of the interior space, wherein the return air grille is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille.

[0105] Clause 10. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-9, wherein the return air grille is installed to the floor of the interior space.

[0106] Clause 11. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-10, wherein the return air grille is fitted into a portion of the seat.

[0107] Clause 12. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-11 further includes one or more additional distribution nozzles within the internal space.

[0108] Clause 13. The system according to any one of Clauses 1-12 further comprises a pressurization chamber installed to the floor of the interior space, wherein the pressurization chamber includes a filter and a fan.

[0109] Clause 14. A method comprising:

[0110] Associate one or more distribution nozzles with seats within the interior space;

[0111] Linking the air intake grille to the seats; and

[0112] The airflow is directed from one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

[0113] Clause 15. The method according to Clause 14, wherein the association of one or more distribution nozzles comprises positioning the one or more distribution nozzles above the seat, and wherein the association of the return air grille comprises positioning the return air grille below at least a portion of the seat.

[0114] Clause 16. The method according to Clause 15, wherein said at least a portion of said seat comprises a cushion on which the passenger sits.

[0115] Clause 17. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-16 further comprises supplying clean air to one or more distribution nozzles via an air distribution subsystem.

[0116] Clause 18. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-17 further comprises fluidly coupling one or more outflow valves to a return air grille.

[0117] Clause 19. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-18 further comprises fluidly coupling the air filtration subsystem to the return air grille.

[0118] Clause 20. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-19 further comprises:

[0119] Install side return air grilles in one or both of the side walls or floors of the interior space; and

[0120] The return air grille is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille.

[0121] Clause 21. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-20 further comprises placing a return air grille into the floor of the interior space.

[0122] Clause 22. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-21 further comprises fitting a return air grille to a portion of the seat.

[0123] Clause 23. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-22 further includes providing one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

[0124] Clause 24. The method according to any one of Clauses 14-23 further comprises installing a pressurization chamber having a filter and a fan into the floor of the interior space.

[0125] Article 25. A means of transport comprising:

[0126] Internal compartments;

[0127] Multiple seats inside the cabin; and

[0128] A ventilation system comprising one or more distribution nozzles and a return air grille associated with each of the plurality of seats, wherein airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

[0129] While various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, lower, middle, side, horizontal, vertical, front, and similar may be used to describe embodiments disclosed herein, it should be understood that such terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. These orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise altered such that upper is lower, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and so on.

[0130] As used herein, structures, constraints, or components “configured” to perform a task or operation are specifically formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and to avoid ambiguity, objects that can only be modified to perform a task or operation are not “configured” to perform the task or operation as used herein.

[0131] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the various embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the scope of the various embodiments thereof. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters of the various embodiments of this disclosure, the embodiments are by no means restrictive and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure should be determined by reference to the full scope of the appended claims together with the equivalents granted by those claims. In the appended claims and detailed specifications, the terms “comprising” and “including” are used as concise equivalents to the term “containing”, and the term “wherein” is used as a concise equivalent to the term “in”. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0132] This written specification uses examples to disclose various embodiments of this disclosure (including the best mode) and also enables those skilled in the art to practice various embodiments of this disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would 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 that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A system (100) comprising: One or more distribution nozzles (106) are associated with seats (108) within the interior space, wherein each seat (108) is assigned its own one or more distribution nozzles (106). A return air grille (110) is associated with the seats (108), wherein each seat (108) is assigned its own return air grille (110), and the return air grille (110) has a panel (244) with multiple inlet passages (246). Side return air grilles, which are installed in one or both of the side walls or the floor of the interior space; and An air duct fluidly couples the return air grille to the side return air grille. The airflow (112) is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) toward the return air grille (110) and into the return air grille (110).

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles (106) are above the seat (108), and wherein the return air grille (110) is below at least a portion of the seat (108).

3. The system (100) of claim 2, wherein the at least portion of the seat (108) comprises a cushion on which a passenger sits.

4. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles (106) comprises at least five distribution nozzles (106).

5. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising an air distribution subsystem (116) that provides clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles (106).

6. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising one or more outflow valves (120) fluidly coupled to the return air grille (110).

7. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising an air filtration subsystem (122) fluidly coupled to the return air grille (110).

8. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles (106) are part of a passenger service unit inside the interior cabin of a vehicle.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the return air grille is disposed on the floor of the interior space.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the return air grille is disposed on a portion of the seat.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more additional distribution nozzles within the internal space.

12. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressurization chamber mounted to the floor of the interior space, wherein the pressurization chamber includes a filter and a fan.

13. A method comprising: One or more distribution nozzles (106) are associated with seats (108) in the interior space, wherein each seat (108) is assigned its own one or more distribution nozzles (106). The return air grille (110) is associated with the seat (108), wherein each seat (108) is assigned its own return air grille (110), and the return air grille (110) has a panel (244) with multiple inlet passages (246). Install side return air grilles on one or both of the side walls or floors of the interior space; The return air grille is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille via an air duct; and The airflow (112) is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) toward the return air grille (110) and into the return air grille (110).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein associating the one or more distribution nozzles comprises positioning the one or more distribution nozzles above the seat, and wherein associating the return air grille comprises positioning the return air grille below at least a portion of the seat.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising fluidly coupling one or more outflow valves to the return air grille.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising mounting the return air grille to one or both of the floor of the interior space or a portion of the seat.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising mounting a pressurization chamber having a filter and a fan to the floor of the interior space.

18. A means of transport comprising: Internal compartments; The internal cabin contains multiple seats; and Ventilation system, which includes: One or more distribution nozzles, wherein each seat is assigned its own one or more distribution nozzles; A return air grille associated with each of the plurality of seats, wherein each seat is assigned its own return air grille, and the return air grille has a panel with multiple inlet passages; Side return air grilles, which are installed in one or both of the side walls or the floor of the interior space; as well as An air duct fluidly couples the return air grille to the side return air grille. The airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward the return air grille and into the return air grille.

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