System for a vehicle cabin and vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to systems for vehicle cabins and vehicles. A system includes an outlet having a cover releasably mounted to a panel within an interior cabin of a vehicle. The cover extends from a first end of the cover to a second end of the cover opposite the first end. The cover has a bottom wall covering the panel and defining at least one slot therethrough. The cover receives an airflow generated by an airflow generator, and the at least one slot discharges the airflow from the cover to form an air curtain within the interior cabin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to an air curtain system and method, such as that which can be used in the interior of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Commercial vehicles, such as aircraft, are used to transport passengers between various locations. Some commercial vehicles have HEPA filters in their air conditioning systems that are capable of trapping microorganisms and pathogens. HEPA filters receive and purify air exiting the cabin or about to enter it. Using HEPA filters between journeys, along with frequent cabin cleaning, are some ways to ensure the health of passengers and crew on board. Additionally, some passengers may prefer to wear masks inside the vehicle's cabin to reduce the risk of pathogen spread. Summary of the Invention

[0003] There is a need for systems and methods for suppressing the spread of pathogens in enclosed spaces, such as the interior of vehicles during travel.

[0004] In view of this need, a specific embodiment of this disclosure provides a system including an outflow vent (e.g., an air curtain system). The outflow vent has a cover for a panel releasably mounted to the interior of a vehicle. The cover extends from a first end to a second end opposite the first end. The cover has a bottom wall that covers the panel and defines at least one slot therethrough. The cover receives airflow generated by an airflow generator, and the at least one slot discharges airflow from the cover to form an air curtain within the interior.

[0005] A particular embodiment provides a vehicle including an interior cabin and an air curtain system. The interior cabin includes a row of seats and a panel disposed above the row of seats. The air curtain system is located within the interior cabin. The air curtain system includes an outlet having a cover releasably mounted to the panel located above the row of seats. The cover has a bottom wall covering the panel and defining at least one slot therethrough. The cover receives airflow generated by an airflow generator, and the at least one slot discharges airflow from the cover to form an air curtain associated with the row of seats below.

[0006] A particular embodiment provides a system (e.g., an air curtain system) including a guide rail and an outlet. The guide rail is operatively connected to an airflow generator of a vehicle and defines a passage for delivering airflow from the airflow generator. The outlet includes a cover of a panel releasably mounted to the interior of the vehicle. The cover has a bottom wall that covers the panel and defines at least one slot therethrough. The cover defines a cavity between the panel and the bottom wall. A first end of the cover defines an air inlet and is coupled to the guide rail such that the air inlet is fluidly connected to a passage in the guide rail. The cover receives airflow from the guide rail within the cavity, and the cover discharges airflow through at least one slot to form an air curtain within the cabin. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an air curtain system in the cabin of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0008] Figure 2 A side view of an air curtain system inside the cabin of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 3 A perspective view of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0010] Figure 4A A top plan view of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] Figure 4B A top plan view of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 5 An interior perspective view of the cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Figure 6 A front view of a portion of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and an embedded perspective view of the passenger service unit (PSU) within the interior cabin are shown.

[0014] Figure 7 Multiple outlets of an air curtain system according to an embodiment are shown.

[0015] Figure 8 According to the implementation method Figure 7 A three-dimensional view of one of the outlets shown.

[0016] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The exploded view of the outlet is shown.

[0017] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 and Figure 9Another perspective view of the outlet shown illustrates the back of the outlet, which is not visible to passengers in the interior cabin.

[0018] Figure 11 yes Figures 8 to 10 An independent perspective view of the nozzle at the outlet shown.

[0019] Figure 12 According to the implementation method, during the nozzle removal operation Figures 8 to 11 A three-dimensional view of a portion of the outlet shown.

[0020] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The image shows a side view of the flow outlet during the nozzle removal operation.

[0021] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 and Figure 13 The image shows a close-up perspective view of the outlet during the nozzle removal operation.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a lower perspective view of the nozzle at the outlet of the air curtain system according to the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The top perspective view of the nozzle is shown.

[0024] Figure 17 This is a lower perspective view of the nozzle at the outlet of an air curtain system according to another embodiment.

[0025] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An exploded view of the nozzle shown.

[0026] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 and Figure 18 The top perspective view of the nozzle is shown.

[0027] Figure 20 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap according to the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 21 It is along Figure 20 The cross-sectional view of the cap is taken from line AA in the diagram.

[0029] Figure 22 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap according to the embodiment.

[0030] Figure 23 It is along Figure 22 The cross-sectional view of the cap taken from line BB in the figure.

[0031] Figure 24This is a plan view of the nozzle cap according to the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 25 It is along Figure 24 The cross-sectional view of the cap is taken from line CC.

[0033] Figure 26 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap according to the embodiment.

[0034] Figure 27 It is along Figure 26 The cross-sectional view of the cap is taken from line DD.

[0035] Figure 28 This is a plan view of the outlet of an air curtain system according to another embodiment.

[0036] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the PSU and air supply duct of a vehicle without an outlet, according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view showing the PSU and air supply duct of a vehicle with an outlet installed according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view of the outlet installed on the PSU according to the embodiment.

[0039] Figure 32 It is along Figure 28 The cross-sectional view of the outlet cut by line EE in the diagram.

[0040] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view of the outlet located on the PSU according to the embodiment.

[0041] Figure 34 This is a perspective view of an air curtain system according to another embodiment.

[0042] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the outlet of the panel according to the embodiment.

[0043] Figure 36 Is installed to Figure 35 The plan view of the outlet of the panel shown.

[0044] Figure 37 yes Figures 34 to 36 A perspective view of the cover of the outlet shown.

[0045] Figure 38 This is a perspective view of the attachment unit of the outlet according to the embodiment.

[0046] Figure 39This is an exploded perspective view showing an attachment unit prepared for coupling to a cover according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 40 This is an exploded view showing a portion of the attachment unit prepared for coupling to the cover.

[0048] Figure 41 This is an exploded perspective view of a cover for a section of outlet prepared for coupling to a guide rail.

[0049] Figure 42 This is a perspective view of a portion of the outlet during a nozzle removal operation, according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 43 This is a perspective view of the attachment unit installed to the ventilation housing that has been connected to the panel, according to the embodiment.

[0051] Figure 44 This is a perspective view of the outlet according to another embodiment.

[0052] Figure 45 It is shown Figure 44 A plan view of the interior of the outlet.

[0053] Figure 46 It is shown Figure 44 A plan view of the external outlet of the flow.

[0054] Figure 47 It is shown Figure 44 The first side view of the outlet shown.

[0055] Figure 48 yes Figure 44 The second side view of the outlet shown.

[0056] Figure 49 yes Figure 44 An elevation view of the first end of the outlet.

[0057] Figure 50 yes Figure 44 The second end elevation view of the outlet in the middle.

[0058] Figure 51 According to the implementation method Figure 47 The first side view of the outlet installed to the panel is shown.

[0059] Figure 52 This is a flowchart of a method for providing an air curtain according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0060] The foregoing description of the invention and the following detailed description of specific embodiments can 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 as not necessarily excluding multiple elements or steps. Furthermore, reference to "an embodiment" is not intended to be construed as excluding additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features. Moreover, unless expressly stated otherwise, embodiments "comprising" or "having" a specific condition can include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0061] Specific embodiments of this disclosure provide an air curtain system and method located within the cabin of a vehicle. The air curtain system is configured to generate air curtains between seats and / or rows within the cabin to provide a more controlled space. The phrase or term "air curtain" is intended to refer to the formation of a controlled airflow having an elongated three-dimensional shape. The system described herein facilitates or generates an air curtain. For example, an air curtain can be formed via nozzles or covers through one or more elongated slots, and the shape of the air curtain can sufficiently mimic the two-dimensional shape of the slots. The air curtain can have an airflow velocity different from the surrounding airflow velocity to create a curtain-like sensation of air in a target area. The air curtain can be effectively formed as a continuous airflow similar to a panel or sheet. In one embodiment, the air curtain is invisible. Alternatively, additives such as colorants or smoke can be added to the airflow to make the air curtain visible.

[0062] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an air curtain system 100 in the interior cabin 102 of a vehicle 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 Embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1The diagram shows a side view of an air curtain system 100 within the interior cabin 102 of the vehicle 104. The air curtain system 100 can be integrated with the ventilation system of the vehicle 104. For example, the air curtain system 100 can receive airflow generated by an airflow generator 106 of the vehicle 104. The air curtain system 100 includes one or more outlets 108 through which the airflow generated by the airflow generator 106 is directed and discharged. Unlike airflow that naturally occurs in a confined space due to moving bodies or the like, the airflow generated by the airflow generator 106 is an actively generated airflow. The outlets 108 include one or more nozzles configured to cause the airflow from the airflow generator 106 to form air curtains 110 of the air curtain system 100. The outlets 108 direct the air curtains 110 between seats 112 in each row 114 and / or between seats 112 in the same row 114. Air curtains 110, exiting through outlet 108, pass between seats 112 and / or rows 114 and are received by one or more return ports 116 (including one or more registers or other such air inlets). Return ports 116 guide the airflow back to airflow generator 106 and / or different destinations via one or more ducts 118, such as conduits. Optionally, a filter 119 may be disposed within the duct to trap atmospheric particles such as pollen, dust, dirt, bacteria, viruses, liquid aerosols, and moisture. Filter 119 may be a HEPA filter.

[0063] The size and shape of the nozzle can be such that it covers a single seat 112 or a row of seats 114. For example, an outlet 108 in the form of an elongated nozzle extending above a group of seats 112 can be used. As another embodiment, an outlet 108 having a nozzle extending only above one seat 112 can be used. The size and shape of the outlet 108 make it possible to provide an air curtain 110 of the desired size and / or shape. In at least one embodiment, the outlet 108 may include one or more slits or slots configured to shape the air curtain 110. The outlet 108 may be integrated within one or more passenger service units (PSUs) above the seats 112. As another embodiment, the outlet 108 may be fixed in a ceiling 120 above the seats 112.

[0064] Airflow generator 106 may include a blower, fan, vacuum equipment, etc. Airflow generator 106 is fixed within the interior compartment 102. For example, airflow generator 106 may be located above ceiling 120, behind a wall, in a compartment, etc. Airflow generator 106 may be a component of the main air supply system (e.g., ventilation system) of vehicle 104. For example, airflow generator 106 may be a component of an environmental control system (ECS) (e.g., heating and air conditioning system) on vehicle 104, i.e., regulating the air supplied to interior compartment 102. Airflow generator 106 may receive air from outside the vehicle and / or recirculated air returned from return port 116 via duct 118. The main air supply system and / or air generator 106 may include one or more air filters, such as HEPA filters, that filter the airflow before it returns through outlet 108 and / or through return port 116.

[0065] Return port 116 is configured to receive and capture the air curtain 110 output from outlet 108, so that the airflow of air curtain 110 returns to airflow generator 106. Return port 116 may be located below seat 112, such as near, on, or within floor 122 supporting seat 112. Duct 118 may be routed to airflow generator 106 below floor 122 and / or behind wall. Figure 2 As shown, based on the positioning of the outflow outlet 108 and the return outlet 116, the air curtain 110 can be guided from above the seat 112 to below the seat 112. Alternatively, the air curtain system 100 may not include the return outlet 116.

[0066] refer to Figure 2 Air curtain 110 is configured to restrict the transmission of pathogens between people within cabin 102. Air curtain 110 provides a barrier to airflow that prevents or otherwise reduces air passage between seats 112 and / or rows 114. Air curtain 110 captures and deflects bioaerosols. In at least one embodiment, air curtain 110 is created between rows 114 to reduce forward and backward airflow therebetween. For example, air curtain 110 may capture and entrain particles or bioaerosols (which may include pathogens) exhaled by a seated passenger while breathing, talking, and / or coughing. This entrainment will capture the bioaerosols and carry them downward toward the return vent 116. In addition to capturing bioaerosols exhaled by seated passengers, air curtain 110 can also serve as a shield in front of seated passengers, i.e., blocking external atmospheric pollutants and pathogens from entering the seated passenger's breathing space.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one corresponding outlet 108 is disposed between each pair of adjacent rows 114 to provide a corresponding air curtain 110 between two adjacent rows 114. The outlet 108 may be positioned and oriented to provide the air curtain 110 in front of the seats 112 of the corresponding row 114, such that each air curtain 110 is disposed in the space between the seat back 124 of the first row of seats 112 and the seat bottom 126 of the second row of seats 112 behind the first row. Thus, the air curtain 110 is positioned close to and in front of the upper body (e.g., head and torso) of the passenger seated in the second row to provide trapping of bioaerosols exhaled by the passenger and by others before being inhaled by the passenger.

[0068] Outlet 108 allows the curtain air 110 to be shaped in three dimensions, wherein the lengths in the first and second dimensions are significantly greater than the length in the third dimension. The first, second, and third dimensions are perpendicular to each other. For example, the curtain air 110 may have a height along a vertical axis 128 of the interior 102. The height of the curtain air 110 may extend from the outlet 108 to the floor 122 and / or the return outlet 116. The curtain air 110 has a thickness along a longitudinal axis 130, which extends the length of the interior 102. The thickness of the curtain air 110 is significantly less than its height. The curtain air 110 has a width along a transverse axis 132 of the interior 102, which extends parallel to each row of seats. For example, each row of seats may be arranged in a line along the axis of the corresponding row, parallel to the transverse axis 132. Similar to the height, the width of the curtain air 110 may be significantly greater than its thickness. For example, the width of each curtain air 110 may extend across multiple seats 112 in the same row 114. Air curtain 110 extends parallel to the row axis of the corresponding row 114, so that air curtain 110 forms an air sheet or wall between rows 114. For example... Figure 2 As indicated, the air curtain 110 may be relatively flat. Alternatively, the outlet 108 may allow the air curtain 110 to be shaped with a certain profile and curve, such as bending at least partially around one or more passengers seated in a given row 114.

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain 110 can be continuously generated. As another embodiment, the air curtain 110 can be selectively activated and deactivated manually, and / or automatically activated and deactivated via the control unit, through a user interface communicating with the control unit.

[0070] Figure 3 A perspective view of an aircraft 210 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Aircraft 210 is... Figure 1The embodiment of the vehicle 104 shown is illustrated. For example, the aircraft 210 includes a propulsion system 212 comprising engines 214. Optionally, the propulsion system 212 may include more engines 214 than shown. The engines 214 are carried by the wings 216 of the aircraft 210. In other embodiments, the engines 214 may be carried by the fuselage 218 and / or the tail 220. The tail 220 may also support a horizontal stabilizer 222 and a vertical stabilizer 224.

[0071] The fuselage 218 of aircraft 210 defines the internal cabin 230 (such as...). Figure 1 The interior cabin 102 shown in the diagram includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work areas (e.g., galley, carry-on baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and second class), one or more lavatories, etc.

[0072] Alternatively, instead of aircraft, embodiments of this disclosure can be used in conjunction with various other means of transportation, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and trains, ships, spacecraft, etc. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure can be used relative to fixed structures such as commercial and residential buildings.

[0073] Figure 4A A top plan view of the interior cabin 230 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The interior cabin 230 may be located within the fuselage 232 of the aircraft, such as... Figure 3 The fuselage 218, etc. For example, one or more fuselage bulkheads may define the interior cabin 230. The interior cabin 230 includes multiple sections, including a forward section 233, a first-class section 234, a business-class section 236, a forward galley station 238, an extended economy or second-class section 240, a standard economy or second-class section 242, and a rear section 244, which may include multiple lavatories and a galley station. It should be understood that the interior cabin 230 may include more or fewer sections than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 may not include a first-class section and may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. The various sections may be separated by a cabin transition area 246, which may include classifier components between aisles 248.

[0074] like Figure 4A As shown, the interior compartment 230 includes two passageways 250 and 252 leading to the aft section 244. Alternatively, the interior compartment 230 may have fewer or more passageways than shown. For example, the interior compartment 230 may include a single passageway extending through the center of the interior compartment 230 leading to the aft section 244.

[0075] Passageways 248, 250, and 252 extend to exit paths or doorways 260. Exit door 262 is located at the end of exit path 260. Exit path 260 may be perpendicular to passageways 248, 250, and 252. Interior compartment 230 may include more exit paths 260 in different locations than shown. These can be used within interior compartment 230. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air curtain system 100 shown is illustrated.

[0076] Figure 4B A top plan view of the interior compartment 280 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Interior compartment 280 is... Figure 3 The embodiment of the interior cabin 230 shown is illustrated. The interior cabin 280 may be located within the fuselage 281 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior cabin 280. The interior cabin 280 includes multiple sections, including a main cabin 282 with passenger seats 283 and a tail section 285 located behind the main cabin 282. It should be understood that the interior cabin 280 may include more or fewer sections than shown.

[0077] The interior compartment 280 may include a single passageway 284 leading to the aft section 285. The single passageway 284 may extend through the center of the interior compartment 280 leading to the aft section 285. For example, the single passageway 284 may be coaxially aligned with the central longitudinal plane of the interior compartment 280.

[0078] Passage 284 extends to an exit path or doorway 290. An exit door 292 is located at the end of exit path 290. Exit path 290 may be perpendicular to passage 284. Interior compartment 280 may include more exit paths than shown. Access can be made within interior compartment 280. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air curtain system 100 shown is illustrated.

[0079] Figure 5 An internal perspective view of the cabin 300 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The cabin 300 is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of the interior cabin 102 is shown. The interior cabin 300 includes an outer wall 302 connected to a ceiling 304. Windows 306 may be formed within the outer wall 302. A floor 308 supports rows of seats 310. Figure 5 As shown, row 312 may include three sets of seats 310 located on either side of aisle 313. However, row 312 may include more or fewer seats 310 than shown. Furthermore, interior cabin 300 may include more aisles than shown.

[0080] On either side of aisle 313, a PSU 314 is secured between the outer wall 302 and the ceiling 304. The PSU 314 extends longitudinally between the front and rear ends of the interior cabin 300. For example, a corresponding PSU 314 may be positioned above the first group of seats 310 in a row 312, and another PSU 314 may be positioned above the second group of seats 310 in the same row 312 on the opposite side of aisle 313. A third PSU 314 may be positioned above the third group of seats 310 behind the first group of seats 310 in the next row 312. Each PSU 314 may include a housing 316 that typically includes vents, reading lights, a drop plate for emergency equipment such as oxygen bags, a call or request button for an attendant, a display device 315, and / or other passenger-specific controls for the corresponding group of seats 310. The vents and / or reading lights may be associated with different seats 310 in that group. For example, three vents may be present corresponding to the three seats 310, such that each vent is specifically associated with a different seat 310. Here, the vent associated with each seat is referred to as a Personal Air Outlet (PAO). The housing 316 has a panel 317 facing the seats 310 in the lower row 312. A passenger located in one of the lower seats 310 can access and / or view buttons, PAOs, reading lights, etc., via designated openings in the panel 317. In the illustrated embodiment, a display device 315 is suspended and extends below the panel 317.

[0081] In at least one embodiment, the outlet 108 of the air curtain system 100 is connected to or constitutes a component of the PSU 314. For example, the outlet 108 of the air curtain system 100 can be refurbished on an existing PSU 314. Each outlet 108 can cover one or more PAO vents of the PSU 314. The outlet 108 is capable of receiving air supplied through one or more PAO vents covered by the outlet 108 and shaping the air via nozzles to form a component. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air curtain 110 shown. For example, each nozzle may include one or more holes (e.g., orifices, slots, etc.) having a predetermined shape and / or arrangement to form the air curtain 110.

[0082] On either side of aisle 313, an overhead storage compartment assembly 318 is secured to the ceiling 304 and / or the outer wall 302 and to the inside of the PSU 314. The overhead storage compartment assembly 318 is secured above seat 310. The overhead storage compartment assembly 318 extends between the front and rear ends of the interior cabin 300. The overhead storage compartment assembly 318 may include a pivot pin or bucket 320 pivotally secured to a stringer. The overhead storage compartment assembly 318 may be positioned above the lower surface of the PSU 314, inside. For example, the overhead storage compartment assembly 318 is configured to pivotally open to receive passenger-carried luggage and personal belongings.

[0083] As used herein, the term "outer side" refers to the position relative to another component and away from the center longitudinal plane 322 of the inner compartment 300. The term "inner side" refers to the position relative to another component and closer to the center longitudinal plane 322 of the inner compartment 300. For example, the panel 317 of the PSU 314 may be located on the outer side relative to the adjacent overhead storage box assembly 318.

[0084] Figure 6 A front view of a portion of the interior cabin 400 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and an embedded perspective view of a PSU 414 located within the interior cabin 400 are shown. The interior cabin 400 is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The embodiment of the interior compartment 102 shown, and can be used with Figure 5 The interior cabin shown is similar to the 300 shown. Figure 6 The image shows seats 404 in the first group 402 of a common row 406 located on the common side of the aisle. There are three seats 404 in the first group 402. The seats 404 in each row 406 are arranged along a row axis 407. The interior cabin 400 includes a PSU 414 and an overhead storage box assembly 408 located above the seats 404 in the first group 402. The PSU 414 is partially located below and to the outside of the overhead storage box assembly 408.

[0085] PSU 414 includes a housing or structure 416 housing multiple components including PAO 418 and reading light 420. For each seat 404 in the first group 402, PSU 414 may include a corresponding PAO 418 and reading light 420. PAO 418 and reading light 420 alternate in rows 421. Housing 416 has, or is coupled to, at least one panel 417 including a lower surface facing downwards from the seat 404. Here, panel 417 is also referred to as face panel 417. PAO 418 and reading light 420 are accessible and visible through openings in panel 417. PSU 414 also includes a drop plate 422 or request button 424 for emergency equipment such as oxygen bags and one or more waiter calls. In the illustrated embodiment, PAO 418 in PSU 414 is a gas nozzle. The gas nozzle is a manually braked valve for controlling the amount of airflow discharged through the outlet of PAO 418. The gas nozzle may also pivot or rotate to aim the airflow. The air discharged from the gas nozzle is typically in a bundle that can diffuse with increasing distance from the nozzle. In at least one embodiment, the outlet 108 of the air curtain system 100 may replace or cover the gas nozzle.

[0086] Figure 7 A plurality of outlets 502 of an air curtain system 100 according to an embodiment are shown. Figure 7 Three flow outlets 502 are shown. Flow outlet 502 is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of the outlet 108 shown. Each outlet 502 includes a ventilation housing 504 defining one or more vent holes 505. Figure 9 (As shown in the diagram). Each ventilation housing 504 may be associated with a different nozzle 506 (e.g., PAO). The ventilation housing 504 may be an integrated component of the PSU 514. For example, the ventilation housing 504 may be part of the PSU housing or may be coupled to the PSU housing.

[0087] Each outlet 502 also includes a nozzle 506 coupled to the vent housing 504 and covering one or more outlet holes 505. The nozzle 506 differs from a conventional PAO (e.g., a gas nozzle). The nozzle 506 includes a cap 508 defining at least one orifice 510 therethrough. Because the nozzle 506 covers the outlet hole 505, the outlet holes 505 of the housing 504 are... Figure 7 It is invisible in the middle. At least one hole 510 has a predetermined shape that forms an air curtain through the cover 508, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air curtain 110 shown is an example.

[0088] The cap 508 of nozzle 506 also guides the air curtain to flow in a direction in cooperation with one or more passengers seated in a group of seats beneath nozzle 506. For example, cap 508 may guide the air curtain in front of the upper body of a passenger seated beneath nozzle 506 to trap and intercept bioaerosol particles exhaled by the passenger and / or from another source before being inhaled or exhaled. In one embodiment, nozzle 506 may guide the air curtain within the passenger's breathing zone. The passenger's breathing zone is related to the position of the passenger's face. For example, the passenger's breathing zone may be defined as a 12-inch lateral three-dimensional space centered on the tip of the passenger's nose. Alternatively, the air curtain may be directed toward the head of the seated passenger. In one embodiment, characteristics of the air curtain, such as size, shape, flow rate, and velocity, are controlled to ensure the effectiveness of the air curtain and maintain passenger comfort. For example, the flow rate of the air curtain at the seated head height above the passenger's head may not exceed 60 feet per minute.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, each outlet 502 is associated with a different outlet 505 of the PSU 514. For example, a nozzle 506 may replace, for example, Figure 6 The gas valves shown are individual gas valves. The ventilation housing 504 of the outlet 502 may be tapered or concave relative to the face panel 512 of the passenger-facing PSU 514, and the nozzle 506 is recessed relative to the face panel 512.

[0090] Figure 8 According to the implementation method Figure 7 A perspective view of one of the outlets 502 shown. Figure 8 The illustration shows how the outlet 502 is presented to passengers in the cabin. The nozzle 506 is mounted to the housing 504, which can be a plate or a panel of the PSU. The cap 508 of the nozzle 506 defines an elongated orifice 510 or slot configured to shape and release air exiting the nozzle 506. The elongated orifice 510 has... Figure 8 The shape is rectangular, but in other embodiments, it can have other elongated shapes. By forming the hole 510 into an elongated shape, the air curtain is formed to be relatively thin in the depth dimension while widely diffused in the width dimension.

[0091] Figure 9 yes Figure 8An exploded view of the outlet 502 shown. The exploded view shows the (first) vent 505 of the housing 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent 505 is circular. The cap 508 of the nozzle 506 is circular and sized to match the diameter of the vent 505. When assembled, the cap 508 can completely cover the vent 505. Optionally, an air cushion or other seal may be disposed between the nozzle 506 and the edge of the housing 504 defining the perimeter of the vent 505 to seal the nozzle 506 to the housing 504. Sealing the nozzle 506 to the housing 504 ensures that the orifice 510 is the only air passage through the vent 505. In the illustrated embodiment, the cap 508 includes an alignment feature 514 that is complementary to a corresponding alignment feature 516 of the housing 504 along the perimeter of the vent 505. When the nozzle 506 is loaded into the air outlet 505, the nozzle 506 is only allowed to couple to the housing 504 in orientation where the alignment features 514, 516 are aligned and / or engaged with each other. When installed to the housing 504, the alignment features 514, 516 ensure that the nozzle 506 has only one or two permissible orientations relative to the housing 504 to ensure that the air curtain has the required orientation relative to the seat.

[0092] In this embodiment, the vent 505 of the housing 504 is a PAO. Before installing the nozzle 506, another nozzle, such as a gas nozzle, can be removed from the PAO. Existing hardware can be used to install the outlet 502, such as the same housing 504 previously used to install a gas nozzle on a PSU.

[0093] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 and Figure 9 Another perspective view of the outlet 502 shown shows the back of the outlet 502, which is not visible to passengers in the cabin. Figure 11 yes Figures 8 to 10 An independent perspective view of the nozzle 506 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 506 includes an air passage 520 that defines a closed channel 522 for airflow from an inlet 524 of the air passage 520 to an orifice 510. The air passage 520 is a conduit or conduit defined by a wall extending from the cap 508. The inlet 524 receives air from... Figure 1 The airflow generator 106 shown in the diagram supplies air. In one embodiment, the inlet 524 has a larger cross-sectional area than the elongated orifice 510, thereby increasing the air velocity as air flows through the nozzle 506 because the air is forced into a smaller volume. When the nozzle 506 is mounted to the housing 504, the elongated orifice 510 and the inlet 524 of the air passage 520 can be located on different sides of the housing 504 (at the outlet 505). For example, a portion of the nozzle 506 defining the orifice 510 can be located below the housing 504 (on the passenger side of the housing 504) and the inlet 524 can be located above the housing 504 (inside the PSU).

[0094] In one embodiment, the nozzle 506 includes at least one deflectable latch 526. The latch 526 is configured to engage with an inner surface 528 of the housing 504 near the vent 505. For example, when the nozzle 506 is loaded into the vent 505 of the housing 504, the latch 526 can be deflected radially inward toward the center of the nozzle 506 (e.g., toward the hole 510). Once the catch tab 530 of the latch 526 extends beyond the vent 505, the latch 526 resiliently moves radially outward until the catch tab 530 overlaps with and curls up against the inner surface 528. The catch tab 530 mechanically abuts against the inner surface 528 to secure the nozzle 506 to the housing 504 and prevent it from falling outside the vent 505. Therefore, the nozzle 506 can be installed in the housing 504 without removing the housing 504, ceiling, etc. of the PSU or without interfering with the housing 504, ceiling, etc. of the PSU in any other way.

[0095] Figure 12 According to the implementation method, during the nozzle removal operation Figures 8 to 11 A perspective view of a portion of the outlet 502 shown. Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The side view of the outlet 502 during the nozzle removal operation shown. Figure 14 yes Figure 12 and Figure 13 The diagram shows a close-up perspective view of the outlet 502 during the nozzle removal operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 506 can be disconnected from and extracted from the housing 504 without removal or other intervention of the housing 504. For example, the cap 508 of the nozzle 506 defines at least one access hole 532 through the cap 508. Each access hole 532 is aligned with a corresponding deflectable latch 526. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 506 has two deflectable latches 526 and two access holes 532. Each access hole 532 is sized to allow a poking instrument 534 passing through it to engage with and release the corresponding deflectable latch 526 from the inner surface 528 of the housing 504. The poking instrument 534 is provided... Figures 12 to 14 Within one access hole 532.

[0096] Specifically, refer to Figure 14The deflectable latch 526 may have a flexible arm 536 fixed to the nozzle 506 only at one end of the arm 536, enabling the flexible arm 536 to deflect and pivot radially toward the center of the nozzle 506. The deflectable latch 526 may include a snap-fit ​​tab 530 and an actuator tab 538 mounted to the flexible arm 536 and movable relative to the cap 508 with the arm 536. The actuator tab 538 may include an angled contact surface 540 configured to be pressed by the puller 534, causing the flexible arm 536 to pivot radially inward and move the snap-fit ​​tab 530 to release the snap-fit ​​tab 530 from the inner surface 528 of the housing 504. For example, the angled contact surface 540 may redirect a vertically upward force applied by the puller 534 to lateral and / or radial movement of the flexible arm 536 and the snap-fit ​​tab 530. Once the snap-fit ​​tab 530 is released, the nozzle 506 can be pulled down and extracted from the vent 505 of the housing 504.

[0097] Figure 15 This is a lower perspective view of the nozzle 602 at the outlet of the air curtain system according to the embodiment. Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The image shows a top perspective view of nozzle 602. Nozzle 602 is another embodiment of a nozzle that can be coupled into the outlet of a PAO, such as a PSU, to provide an air curtain. For example, nozzle 602 is... Figures 8 to 14 Alternative forms of nozzle 506 shown. Nozzle 602 is similar to nozzle 506, but nozzle 602 does not include the reference. Figure 10 and Figure 11 An air passage 520 is shown and described. A nozzle 602 has a cap 604 defining an elongated orifice 606. The cap 604 may be generally thin and flat. The elongated orifice 606 may have a relatively shallow depth defined along the thickness of the cap 604. The elongated shape of the orifice 606 forms an air curtain. The cap 604 may be sealed to a housing to ensure that all airflow passing through the outlet orifice is exhausted through the elongated orifice. Other portions of the nozzle 602 may be identical or similar to the nozzle 506.

[0098] Figure 17 This is a lower perspective view of the nozzle 702 at the outlet of an air curtain system according to another embodiment. Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An exploded view of nozzle 702 shown. Figure 19 yes Figure 17 and Figure 18 The image shows a top perspective view of nozzle 702. Nozzle 702 is another embodiment of a nozzle that can be coupled into the outlet of a PAO, such as a PSU, to provide an air curtain. For example, nozzle 702 is... Figures 8 to 14 The nozzle 506 shown and Figure 15 and Figure 16 An alternative form of nozzle 602 is shown. Nozzle 702 is an assembly including an outer ring 704 and a cap 706. The outer ring 704 is within the vent (e.g., Figures 8 to 14 The vent 505 of the housing 504 shown is coupled to the housing. A cap 706 is coupled to the outer ring 704 within a central hole 708 defined by the outer ring 704. The outer ring 704 is disposed between the housing and the cap 706. In the illustrated embodiment, the cap 706 may not be in direct physical contact with the housing, but may be indirectly coupled to the housing via the outer ring 704. The cap 706 defines an elongated hole 710 forming an air curtain.

[0099] The outer ring 704 may have a flange 712 and a body 714 extending from the flange 712. A central bore 708 extends through the flange 712 and the body 714. The body 714 may have threads 716 for threaded coupling to the housing within an outlet port. The thread pattern and diameter may match conventional thread patterns used in existing nozzles such as gas nozzles. Alternatively, the outer ring 704 may be coupled to the housing via discrete fasteners or latches. The cap 706 may have at least one deflectable latch 718 configured to engage on the inner surface 720 of the outer ring 704 near the central bore 708 of the outer ring 704 to secure the cap 706 to the outer ring 704. In the illustrated embodiment, two latches 718 are included. Before or after coupling the outer ring 704 to the housing, the cap 706 is first loaded upward through the central hole 708 having a latching end, enabling the cap 706 to be coupled to the outer ring 704. As the latch 718 moves inward along the interior of the flange 712 and the body 714, the latch 718 deflects radially inward toward the center of the cap 706. Once the latch 718 passes through the inner surface 720 of the outer ring 704, which may be along the ridge of the body 714, the latch 718 moves resiliently radially outward and physically engages with the inner surface 720 to secure the cap 706 to the outer ring 704. Optionally, the perimeter of the central hole 708 and the perimeter of the cap 706 may be fitted with teeth 722, which allow selection and retention of a selected orientation of the cap 706 relative to the outer ring 704.

[0100] like Figure 17 As shown, when fully assembled, the front of the cap 706 can be flush with the front of the outer ring 704. By removing the entire nozzle 702 from the housing, the cap 706 can be disconnected from the outer ring 704, and then the latch 718 is pressed together to release the latch 718 from the inner surface 720.

[0101] Figures 20 to 27 The illustration shows a variation of at least one orifice defined in the cap of a nozzle at an outlet of an air curtain system according to different embodiments. References may be used. Figures 20 to 27The various modifications described replace the previously described rectangular elongated holes 510, 606, and 710. For example, nozzles 506, 602, and 702 can define... Figures 20 to 27 A predetermined shape as described in the text.

[0102] Figure 20 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap 802 according to an embodiment. The plan view shows how the cap 802 is presented to the passenger below the outlet. Figure 21 It is along Figure 20 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the cap 802 taken by line AA. The cap 802 includes an elongated orifice 804. Line AA is parallel to the elongated axis of the orifice 804 and bisects the orifice 804. The orifice 804 is narrower along its central region 806 than along its end regions 808 (which are wider than the central region 806). The shape of the orifice 804 forces more air to flow out along the end regions 808 than along the central region 806. Further, as... Figure 21 As shown, the orifice 804 opens outward, allowing the airflow to diffuse beyond the width of the orifice 804 as it leaves the cap 802.

[0103] Figure 22 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap 812 according to an embodiment. The plan view shows how the cap 812 is presented to the passenger below the outlet. Figure 23 It is along Figure 22 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the cap 812 taken by line BB. The cap 812 includes an elongated aperture 814. Line BB bisects the aperture 814 and is oriented perpendicular to the elongated axis of the aperture 814. The elongated aperture 814 has an elliptical, oval, or circular rectangular shape. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one aperture also includes at least two side ports 816 located on opposite sides of the elongated aperture 814. The side ports 816 are oriented to guide air toward air exiting from the elongated aperture 814 to limit the diffusion of the air curtain along the thickness dimension. For example, as shown... Figure 23 As shown, the front portion 818 (or bottom) of the cover 812 is concave so that the side port 816 extends further forward than the aperture 814. Most of the air can flow through the aperture 814, however, the air from the side port 816 is used to further shape the air curtain to provide a flat, thin air curtain, thereby limiting the diffusion of air in the depth dimension of the air curtain.

[0104] Figure 24 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap 822 according to an embodiment. The plan view shows how the cap 822 is presented to the passenger below the outlet. Figure 25 It is along Figure 24The image shows a cross-sectional view of the cap 822 taken by line CC. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined shape of at least one hole in the cap 822 comprises a plurality of holes 824 arranged in rows 826. Line CC is coaxial with the rows 826. Each hole 824 is fluidly connected to a different corresponding channel 828 extending through the cap 822. Figure 25 As shown, the cap 822 is thicker than in other embodiments and has a protruding front portion 830. Channels 828 extend through the cap 822 without intersecting. The channels 828 are flared apart such that the holes 824 are spaced further apart than the channels 828 near the rear end 831 (or inner end) of the cap 822. The channels 828 flare outwards along the row 826 to provide a wider air curtain without increasing the thickness or depth of the air curtain.

[0105] Figure 26 This is a plan view of the nozzle cap 832 according to an embodiment. The plan view shows how the cap 832 is presented to the passenger below the outlet. Figure 27 It is along Figure 26 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the cap 832 taken by line DD. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined shape of at least one hole in the cap 832 comprises a plurality of holes 834 arranged in a row 836. Line DD is coaxial with the row 836. In the illustrated embodiment, each hole 834 is fluidly connected to a different corresponding channel 838 via the cap 832. The cap 832 is thicker than in some other embodiments and has a protruding front 840. Unlike... Figure 24 and Figure 25 In the embodiment shown, channels 838 extend across each other within the cover 832. Optionally, channels 838 are not fluidly connected to each other. For example, channels 838 may be flattened and / or spliced ​​to bypass each other. Channels 838 may be relatively linear. Channels 838 may have different orientations to provide a specified airflow diffusion with a wider air curtain without increasing the thickness or depth of the air curtain.

[0106] Figure 28 This is a plan view of the outlet 902 of an air curtain system according to another embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 902 includes a cap 904 that is not disposed within a single ventilation vent 906. Specifically, the cap 904 extends across and covers multiple vents 906 (e.g., multiple PAOs). In the illustrated embodiment, the cap 904 is mounted to a panel 908 (e.g., a face panel) of a PSU 909. For example, the PSU 909 also includes a reading light 910. The cap 904 extends across and uniformly covers three vents 906 of the PSU 909. Because it is located behind the cap 904, the vents 906 are shown in dashed lines.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, cover 904 defines a single elongated slot 912. Cover 904 can accumulate air discharged from the various vents 906 in the cavity defined between panel 908 and cover 904, and discharge the combined air through the elongated slot 912 to provide an air curtain 110. Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram). The cover 904 can be oriented relative to the seats in the interior cabin such that the elongated slot 912 is integrally aligned with the row axles of the seats located below the cover 904 (e.g., Figure 6 The shafts 407 in the middle are parallel. The elongated slot 912 causes the air to form a wider curtain or wall of air, which can extend in front of multiple seats in the lower row to shield the passengers seated there.

[0108] In this embodiment, the cover 904 may receive air from a different source, in addition to or instead of the vent 906. For example, the cover 904 may receive air from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914. The main cabin air supply nozzle 914 may direct air from the airflow generator 106 into the cabin. For example, even in the combined configuration, the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 may supply more air (e.g., a greater airflow rate) into the cabin than the vent 906. The main cabin air supply nozzle 914 may be positioned along the outer side 916 of the PSU at the outer wall 302 of the cabin. Figure 5 (as shown in the diagram) or near the outer wall 302 of the cabin. In one embodiment, the cover 904 receives only a portion of the total air exhausted by the main cabin air supply nozzle 914. The main cabin air supply nozzle 914 may extend longitudinally beyond the edge of the cover 904 such that the nozzle 914 directly distributes air into the cabin at positions in front of and behind the cover 904. Air from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914, entering the cover 904, is combined with air from the vent 906 and exhausted through the slot 912. The combination of air from the vent 906 and air from the nozzle 914 increases the flow rate and volume of air flowing through the slot 912, thereby enabling the air curtain to trap and entrain more bioaerosols in the air than an air curtain with a reduced flow rate and / or velocity. In an alternative embodiment, the cover 904 may receive air only from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914, and not from both the nozzle 914 and the vent 906. For example, the cover 904 may be spaced apart from the vent 906 so that the cover 904 does not cover the vent 906.

[0109] In one or more embodiments, the cover 904 is modifiable to be added to an existing panel within the vehicle's interior. For example, the cover 904 may be designed to attach to panel 908 of a PSU 909 present in the aircraft cabin without requiring design changes to and / or removal of the PSU 909. The cover 904 may be attached to panel 908 via one or more of hook and / or latch features, adhesives, fasteners (e.g., clips, screws, bolts, etc.). In alternative embodiments, the curtain air system 100 may be integrated into an entire panel of the vehicle's interior, such as panel 908 of the PSU 909. For example, similar to the slot 912 through the cover 904, the PSU 909 may be redesigned to include one or more elongated slots. Alternatively, one or more elongated slots through panel 908 may replace multiple discrete vents 906 of the PSU 909, or may include one or more elongated slots in addition to vents 906. For example, panel 908 may define one or more elongated slots at a location spaced forward of vent 906. Passengers can manipulate gas nozzles in vent 906 to provide a comfortable, personalized airflow, and panel 908 may provide an air curtain 110 in front of the passenger's upper body or the entire front of the passenger's body. Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram). Air curtains can be positioned in front of passengers to avoid discomfort caused by the continuous impact of the air curtains on passengers during the journey.

[0110] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the PSU 909 and air supply duct 918 of a vehicle without an outlet 902 according to an embodiment. For example, Figure 29 It can be shown in Figure 28 The cover 904 shown is modified to define the PSU 909 before the outlet 902. The PSU 909 includes three gas nozzles 920 coupled within three corresponding vent ports 906. A portion of the air from the supply duct 918 is directed into the PSU pressurization chamber 922, where air is distributed between the vent ports 906 and the gas nozzles 920. The remaining air from the supply duct 918 is exhausted into the cabin from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914.

[0111] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle's PSU 909 and air supply duct 918, showing the installation of the outlet 902 according to an embodiment. First, the gas nozzle 920 is removed from the outlet 906 (e.g., PAO). Figure 29(As shown in the diagram). The cover 904 is then mounted to the housing or PSU 909. The cover 904 includes a bottom wall 930 and a member 932 extending from the inner surface 934 of the bottom wall 930. The cover 904 is loaded toward the PSU 909 in an upward direction 935, and the member 932 is received within an vent 906. One or more members 932 may engage one or more surfaces of the ventilation housing via an interference fit or latching connection, the ventilation housing defining vent 906 for aligning the cover 904 with the PSU 909 and / or securing the cover 904 to the PSU 909.

[0112] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view of the installed outlet 902 on the PSU 909 according to an embodiment. When coupled to the panel 908 of the PSU 909, the bottom wall 930 is spaced apart from the panel 908 to define a cavity 936 between the panel 908 and the bottom wall 930. Air discharged through the vent 906 combines with air received from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 within the cavity 936. Air from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 is received at the outer end 942 of the cover 904 through the inlet 940. Optionally, a connecting element can be configured to cover and close the gap between the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 and the outer end 942 of the cover 904. The connecting element can guide substantially all of the airflow discharged along the portion of the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 aligned with the cover 904 into the cover 904. From the elongated slot 912 ( Figure 28 (As shown) the combined air is expelled to form an air curtain. Figure 31 The cross-section shown is approximately parallel to and offset from slot 912, therefore slot 912 is not visible. Arrow 938 indicates the air curtain exiting cover 904. In the illustrated embodiment, cover 904 represents the nozzle of outlet 902. In the illustrated embodiment, cover 904 is capable of housing a gas nozzle present in outlet 906.

[0113] Figure 32 It is along Figure 28The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the outlet 902 taken by line EE. The cross-section shows a side view of the outlet 902. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 904 is designed to position the air curtain 948 in front of a group and / or a row of seats 950 seated under the PSU 909. For example, an elongated slot 912 may be offset from the vent 906 to bring the air curtain 948 in front of the vent 906, ensuring that the air curtain 948 is positioned in front of the passenger 952. The elongated slot 912 is positioned in front of the vent 906 relative to the direction the seat 950 faces (e.g., relative to the orientation of the vehicle). Therefore, even if the passenger 952 leans forward, the air curtain 948 remains in front of the upper body of the passenger 952, thus preventing discomfort to the passenger due to continuous airflow over a part of the body. Figure 32 As indicated by the arrow, the air curtain 948 is capable of capturing and diverting bioaerosols exhaled by passenger 952 downwards and away from the breathing zone. Before external bioaerosols can enter passenger 952's breathing zone, the air curtain 948 also protects passenger 952 by diverting external bioaerosols. The air curtain can divert bioaerosols to contact surfaces such as the floor, seats, and return vents.

[0114] In an implementation, the cover 904 can be designed to select the position and orientation of the air curtain 948 relative to the seat and passenger. For example, if the seat in the second vehicle is positioned behind the air vents... Figure 32 If the distance between the seat 950 and the vent 906 in the illustrated vehicle is further, the cover can be designed and / or installed such that the elongated slot is aligned with or located behind the vent (instead of being located on) the vent. Figure 32 (See the front of the air vent 906 shown). The cover 904 and slot 912 can be designed such that the air curtain 948 is positioned approximately 6 to 18 inches (e.g., 12 inches) in front of the seat back of the seat 950. Figure 32 In the casement, the air curtain 948 is vertically oriented and extends straight downward from the cover 904. Optionally, the cover 904 can be manipulated at an angle in the forward or rearward orientation as shown, so that the position of the air curtain 948 adapts to the seated passenger 952. The air curtain 948 can be manipulated by using blades within the cover 904 and / or by aligning with portions of the cover 904 that define the slot 912.

[0115] Figure 33This is a cross-sectional view of the outlet 902 on the PSU 909 according to an embodiment. For maintenance purposes, the housing of the PSU 909 is configured to pivot downwards. In this embodiment, the cover 904 is designed not to interfere with the pivoting movement of the housing, so that the cover 904 can remain mounted on the housing even when maintenance is performed on the PSU 909. For example, the gap between the outer end 942 of the cover 904 and the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 provides sufficient orifice for the pivoting movement of the housing using the attached cover 904. Alternatively, a separate removable connecting element may exist between the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 and the outer end 942 of the cover 904, and the connecting element can be removed before the cover 904 is decoupled. The connecting element may have a wall at its location that guides substantially all of the air exhausted from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 into the cover 904. In another embodiment, the connecting element between the cover 904 and the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 may remain intact, and only the cover 904 is removed for maintenance.

[0116] Figure 34 This is a perspective view of an air curtain system 100 according to another embodiment. The air curtain system 100 includes one or more outlets 1002 coupled to a guide rail 1004. Figure 34 Two outlets 1002 are shown. The outlets 1002 are coupled to the guide rail 1004 at different locations along its length, such that the outlets 1002 are spaced apart from each other. The outlets 1002 may be copies or replicas of each other. Reference herein to a single outlet 1002 can refer to... Figure 34 One or both flow outlets 1002 are shown. Flow outlet 1002 can be connected to... Figure 28 and Figure 31 The flow outlet 902 shown is similar. For example, each flow outlet 1002 has a corresponding cover 1006 releasably mounted to a panel located above a row of seats. For example, the cover 1006 may be modified to be mounted on a pre-existing panel not specifically designed for attachment to the cover 1006. The pre-existing panel may be a face panel of the PSU. The cover 1006 receives airflow and discharges airflow in a downward direction to form an air curtain associated with a row of seats located below the flow outlet 1002. Optionally, the air curtain system 100 may include Figure 34 The diagram shows two or more outlets 1002. Alternatively, the system 100 may have only one outlet 1002 coupled to the guide rail 1004.

[0117] Guide rail 1004 is an elongated slot, pipe, or conduit extending along the length of the interior compartment. Guide rail 1004 defines a channel 1008 along its length. Channel 1008 receives and accommodates the airflow generator 106 ( Figure 1The airflow (e.g., airflow) provided by the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rail 1004 is open along its top end 1010. The guide rail 1004 can be mounted at its top end 1010 to a wall, panel, or ceiling within the cabin. When mounted, the wall, panel, or ceiling surface can close the top of the passage 1008 to inhibit or at least restrict airflow away from the passage 1008 along the top end 1010 of the guide rail 1004. In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system 100 is modifiable, and the guide rail 1004 can be specifically designed to connect with the main cabin air supply nozzle 914. Figure 29 and Figure 31 (As shown in the diagram) Alignment. Airflow exiting from the main cabin air supply nozzle 914 can enter the channel 1008 of the guide rail 1004 through the open top 1010 of the guide rail 1004. Airflow within the channel 1008 can flow longitudinally, and some airflow exits the channel 1008 at the outlet 1002 to be discharged as an air curtain.

[0118] Each outlet 1002 has a cover 1006 having a first end 1012 and a second end 1014 opposite to the first end 1012. The cover 1006 extends from the first end 1012 to the second end 1014. The first end 1012 is coupled to a guide rail 1004. In an embodiment, the first end 1012 is physically in contact with the guide rail 1004 and is connected to the guide rail via one or more fasteners, latches, tabs, etc. Optionally, discrete attachment members and / or vibration absorbing members may be provided at the interface between the guide rail 1004 and the first end 1012 of the cover 1006. The cover 1006 has a three-dimensional shape (e.g., extending in three dimensions), and the first end 1012 of the cover 1006 defines an air inlet 1016. The air inlet 1016 is fluidly connected to a channel 1008 of the guide rail 1004. When the cover 1006 is coupled to the guide rail 1004, the airflow in the channel 1008 can leave the guide rail 1004 and enter the cover 1006 through the air inlet 1016.

[0119] In one or more embodiments, the outlet 1002 further includes an attachment unit 1018 located on the cover 1006. The attachment unit 1018 assists in mounting (and removing) the cover 1006 to a panel located above a row of seats. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment unit 1018 includes at least one frame 1022 sized, shaped, and positioned to align with an air vent. The air vent may be a PAO (porpoise outlet). The frame 1022 may define the air vent (e.g., Figure 7 Ventilation housing or socket (e.g., vent 505) in the middle. Figure 7 The vent housing 504 engages with the cover 1006 to ensure proper positioning of the cover 1006 relative to the panel and vent. The frame 1022 can also be secured to the vent housing via a deflectable latch or interference fit to mount the cover 1006 to the panel. (As mentioned above regarding...) Figure 29 and Figure 30 It may be necessary to remove the gas nozzle from the corresponding vent before one or more frames 1022 of the attachment unit 1018 can properly enter the vent and interact with the ventilation housing.

[0120] Figure 34 The air curtain system 100 shown is designed for installation in enclosed rooms or cabins, such as the interior of a vehicle. When installed, Figure 34 The air curtain system 100 shown is Figure 2 The implementation shown is similar. For example, outlet 1002 is associated with different rows of seats. Each outlet 1002 forms an air curtain that exits in a downward direction toward the floor 122. The outlet 1002 is positioned and oriented relative to each row of seats such that each air curtain is positioned between two rows of seats and effectively shields the seated passengers from the transmission of atmospheric pathogens. For example, a first outlet 1002 may form an air curtain associated with a first row, and a second outlet 1002 may form an air curtain associated with a second row located behind the first row (relative to the front of the cabin and / or the front of the vehicle). Figure 28 Similar to outlet 902, outlet 1002 can be installed to a panel of the PSU located above the passenger seat.

[0121] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the outlet 1002 installed on panel 1020 according to an embodiment. The view shown indicates to a person in the cabin the appearance of the outlet 1002 as viewed from below. Cover 1006 is installed on panel 1020. Panel 1020 according to the embodiment is part of PSU, such as the face panel of PSU. In alternative embodiments, panel 1020 may be a component of overhead storage box assembly, ceiling panel, etc.

[0122] The contour of the cover 1006 may correspond to the curvature of the panel 1020. The second end 1014 of the cover 1006 may have a hook 1024. The hook 1024 engages with the edge 1026 of the panel 1020 to assist in the positioning of the cover 1006 relative to the panel 1020 and in the installation of the cover 1006 onto the panel 1020. For example, the installation process of the cover 1006 may include: coupling the first end 1012 of the cover 1006 to the guide rail 1004, and then pushing the second end 1014 upward. The cover 1006 may partially deform to allow the hook 1024 to extend beyond the edge 1026, at which point the cover 1006 elastically returns to its original position and the hook 1024 engages with the edge 1026.

[0123] The cover 1006 has a bottom wall 1028 extending from a first end 1012 to a second end 1014. The bottom wall 1028 has an outer surface 1030 visible to passengers. The bottom wall 1028 defines at least one slot 1032 by means of its thickness. The at least one slot 1032 exhausts airflow from the cover 1006 to provide an air curtain. The at least one slot 1032 is sized, shaped, and positioned to form an air curtain having specified dimensions, shape, position, and other characteristics. Other characteristics may include the consistency or uniformity of the airflow rate or amount within different portions of the air curtain. For example, the slot 1032 may be designed and arranged to prevent gaps or interruptions in the air curtain that would allow airborne pathogens to pass through.

[0124] Figure 36 Is installed to Figure 35 The diagram shows a plan view of the outlet 1002 of the panel 1020. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom wall 1028 of the cover 1006 defines three slots 1032A, 1032B, and 1032C. Slots 1032A-1032C may be parallel to each other. For example, each of the slots 1032A-1032C may extend in the same dimension as the cover 1006, i.e., along the transverse axis 132 (…). Figure 2 (As shown) is longer than along the other vertical axes 128, 130. Slots 1032A-1032C are divided into a first end 1034 near the cover 1006, i.e., the end closest to the front of the interior cabin and / or the front of the vehicle. Slots 1032A-1032C may be positioned near the front end 1034 to provide air curtains in front of the seats of the associated row below, so that the air curtains do not impact the bodies of passengers seated in that row.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, the first slot 1032A is longer than the second slot 1032B and the third slot 1032C. The first slot 1032A may also be slightly wider than the slots 1032B and 1032C. The second slot 1032B is positioned near the second end 1014 of the cover 1006. The third slot 1032C is positioned near the first end 1012 of the cover 1006. Figure 36 The number, size, and arrangement of the slots 1032 are shown in a non-limiting embodiment. Alternatively, the cover 106 may define only one slot 1032, only two slots 1032, or at least four slots 1032.

[0126] Figure 36A guide rail 1004 adjacent to the cover 1006 is shown. Airflow is delivered through the guide rail 1004 (indicated by arrow 1036) and enters the cover 1006 through an air inlet 1016. An air curtain is formed by exhausting the airflow within the cover 1006 through slots 1032A-1032C defined by the bottom wall 1028. Slots 1032A-1032C may define an air curtain shaft 1039, and each slot 1032 may be parallel to or coaxial with the air curtain shaft 1039. The air curtain shaft 1039 may be integrally connected to the shaft of a row of seats (e.g., Figure 6 The shafts in the middle (407) are parallel.

[0127] In this embodiment, the guide rail 1004 is located on or near the outer wall 1038 of the inner compartment. The first end 1012 of the cover 1006 coupled to the guide rail 1004 is the outer end, and the second end 1014 is the inner end. The second end 1014 may be part of the outlet 1002 of the passage closest to the inner compartment.

[0128] For reference Figure 35 and Figure 36 Optionally, the cover 1006 has an L-shape. Since the air intake 1016 is defined by a foot-shaped "L," the L-shape ensures that a sufficient amount of air is received into the cover 1006 to provide the required air curtain. The cut-out area of ​​the "L" can be configured to reduce the coverage area of ​​the cover 1006 and provide space for other components, such as reading lights, call buttons, display devices, mounting brackets for the display devices, and pull-down panels for emergency equipment. The cover 1006 can have a relatively slim shape to allow the modified cover 1006 to largely integrate into the existing structure within the cabin. For example, the cover 1006 can taper towards the edges to provide a smooth transition at the interface between the cover 1006 and the panel 1020.

[0129] Figure 37 yes Figures 34 to 36 The diagram shows a perspective view of the cover 1006 of the outlet 1002. The cover 1006 has a three-dimensional shape. In addition to the bottom wall 1028, the cover 1006 includes at least a first sidewall 1040 located at the front end 1034 of the cover 1006 and a second sidewall 1042 located at the rear end 1044 of the cover 1006. The cover 1006 defines a cavity 1046 for receiving airflow. When mounted to the panel 1020, the cavity 1046 is located between the two sidewalls 1040 and 1042 and between the bottom wall 1028 and the panel 1020. Figure 35 (As shown in the diagram) extends. Airflow enters cavity 1046 through air inlet 1016 and exits cavity 1046 through at least one slot 1032.

[0130] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 1006 has a compressible seal 1050 along its top edge 1052. When mounted to the panel 1020, the top edge 1052 abuts against the panel 1020. The compressible seal 1050 may be a foam material, rubber material, etc. When the cover 1006 is mounted to the panel 1020, the compressible seal 1050 can be partially compressed at least at the interface between the cover 1006 and the panel 1020 to seal the interface. For example, the compressible seal 1050 may prevent air from leaving the cavity 1046 through a leakage path at the interface.

[0131] Outlet 1002 may include at least one blade 1054 for changing the flow direction of airflow into cavity 1046. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of blades 1054 are mounted to the inner surface 1048 of cover 1006. Inner surface 1048 may be the surface of bottom wall 1028, first sidewall 1040, or second sidewall 1042. Blades 1054 are angled relative to inner surface 1048 to guide airflow received through inlet 1016 toward at least one slot 1032. The number, position, and angular orientation of blades 1054 may be selected based on specified characteristics of the air curtain and characteristics of the airflow received into cover 1006.

[0132] Figure 38 This is a perspective view of the attachment unit 1018 of the outlet 1002 according to the embodiment. Figure 38 The attachment unit 1018 is a separate component from the cover 1006. The attachment unit 1018 is movably attached to the cover 1006. For example, the attachment unit 1018 can be detached from the cover 1006 to provide more compact storage and / or transport. Alternatively, forming the attachment unit 1018 independently of the cover 1006 can reduce manufacturing complexity compared to integrating the cover 1006 and the attachment unit 1018 into a single unit.

[0133] The attachment unit 1018 is configured to be at least partially coupled to the cover 1006 within the cavity 1046. The attachment unit 1018 includes at least one frame 1022. The attachment unit 1018 has via... Figure 38 The tie rod 1060 connects to two frames 1022. Each frame 1022 is sized to be received in an vent such as a PAO. For example, the frame 1022 may have an integral conical shape corresponding to the shape of the vent. Alternatively, the frame 1022 may be integrally cylindrical. In other embodiments, the attachment unit 1018 may have only one frame 1022 or at least three frames 1022.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment unit 1018 includes a plurality of coupling latches 1062 for releasable coupling to the cover 1006. The coupling latches 1062 are located at a first end 1063 of the attachment unit 1018. Because the first end 1063 is closest to the surface of the cover 1006, it can be referred to as the proximal end. The coupling latches 1062 may be resiliently deflectable tabs. Return to Reference Figure 37 The cover 1006 may include a latching feature 1064 complementary to the coupling latch 1062 of the attachment unit 1018. The latching feature 1064 may be a snap or deflectable latch that interacts with the coupling latch 1062 to releasably secure the attachment unit 1018 to the cover 1006.

[0135] Each frame 1022 of the attachment unit 1018 includes at least one deflectable mounting latch 1066 located at or near the second end 1067 of the attachment unit 1018. The second end 1067 is opposite to the first end 1063 and can be referred to as the distal end because it is the farthest end from the cover 1006 when attached to the cover 1006. In the illustrated embodiment, each frame 1022 has a single mounting latch 1066 with a curved shape and configured to deflect radially. The mounting latch 1066 is designed to engage with the edge of a vent housing defining an vent hole to secure the cover 1066 to the panel 1020.

[0136] Figure 39 This is an exploded perspective view showing an attachment unit 1018 prepared for coupling to a cover 1006 according to an embodiment. Optionally, the attachment unit 1018 includes three coupling latches 1062A, 1062B, 1062C that are respectively coupled to three corresponding latching features 1064A, 1064B, 1064C of the cover 1006 to releasably secure the attachment unit 1018 to the cover 1006. In the illustrated embodiment, the first latching feature 1064A of the cover 1006 extends from a blade 1054.

[0137] Figure 40This is an exploded view showing a portion of an attachment unit 1018 prepared for coupling to a cover 1006. The portion shown depicts a first latching feature 1064A located on a blade 1054 and a first coupling latch 1062A engaging with the first latching feature 1064A. In this embodiment, the blade 1054 having the first latching feature 1064A defines an alignment slot 1068. The attachment unit 1018 includes a guide pin 1069 with a flange 1071. The guide pin 1069 is adjacent to the first coupling latch 1062A and extends from the frame 1022 in substantially the same direction as the first coupling latch 1062A. As the attachment unit 1018 and the cover 1006 move toward each other to align the two components during coupling operation, the flange 1071 of the guide pin 1069 is received within the alignment slot 1068 of the blade 1054.

[0138] Figure 41 This is an exploded perspective view of an air curtain system 100 showing a cover 1006 prepared for coupling to a section of the outlet 1002 of the guide rail 1004. Although Figure 41 The attachment unit 1018 is not shown; however, it may be attached to the cover 1006 before the cover 1006 is actually coupled to the guide rail 1004. The guide rail 1004 may define a port 1070 along its sidewall 1072. The port 1070 has dimensions corresponding to the first end 1012 of the cover 1006. For example... Figure 34 As shown, the guide rail 1004 may have a plurality of ports 1070 spaced apart along its length to accommodate a plurality of outlets 1002.

[0139] In one embodiment, since the cover 1006 is coupled to the guide rail 1004, a portion of the first end 1012 is inserted into the port 1070, or a portion of the flange 1074 of the port 1070 is inserted into the air inlet 1016. Optionally, the flange 1074 of the port 1070 can be secured to the first end 1012 of the cover 1006 using a deflectable latch, fastener, or adhesive. When coupled, at least some of the airflow within the channel 1008 of the guide rail 1004 can exit the channel 1008 through the port 1070 and enter the cavity 1046 of the cover 1006 to form an air curtain. Optionally, the guide rail 1004 may include air guiding features such as blades within the channel 1008. The air guiding features redirect the airflow toward the port 1070.

[0140] Figure 42 This is a perspective view of a portion of the outlet 1002 during a nozzle removal operation according to an embodiment. The cover 1006 may include a coupled latch 1062 and latch feature 1064 located on the surface of the nozzle. Figure 39(As shown in the diagram) corresponding to the location, through a plurality of access openings 1080 on the bottom wall 1028. Access openings 1080 allow insertion of a pull-out instrument 1082. One end of the pull-out instrument 1082 can force the coupling latch 1062 and / or latch feature 1064 to deflect from each other, thereby allowing removal of the cover 1006 from the attachment unit 1018.

[0141] Figure 43 This is a perspective view of an attachment unit 1018 mounted to a ventilated housing 1084 (e.g., a socket) connected to a panel 1020, according to an embodiment. Mounting latches 1066 engage with the edge (not shown) of the ventilated housing 1084 to secure the attachment unit 1018 to the panel 1020. In this embodiment, the attachment unit 1018 includes a release channel 1086 connected to each mounting latch 1066. The release channel 1086 is positioned along the inner surface 1088 of each mounting latch 1066. Access is possible via the central cavity 1090 of the frame 1022 through an insertion / removal device (such as...). Figure 42 The instrument 1082 (or similar) accesses the release channel 1086. When inserted into the release channel 1086, pulling one end of the instrument causes the mounting latch 1066 to deflect radially inward toward the center of the central cavity 1090, thereby disengaging the mounting latch 1066 from the edge of the vent housing 1084. When the mounting latch 1066 is disengaged, the attachment unit 1018 can be withdrawn from the vent housing 1084 and removed from the panel 1020.

[0142] Figure 44 This is a perspective view of the outlet 1102 according to another embodiment. Figure 45 It is shown Figure 44 Plan view of the interior of outlet 1102. Figure 46 It is shown Figure 44 The plan view of the external outlet 1102. Outlet 1102 can be connected to... Figures 34 to 43 The outlet 1002 shown is generally similar. The outlet 1102 has an attachment unit 1104, different from the attachment unit 1018 of the outlet 1002. The outlet 1102 represents a one-piece implementation, wherein the attachment unit 1104 is integrally attached to the cover 1106 of the outlet 1102 to define a unified whole. For example, the attachment unit 1104 can be mounted to the inner surface 1108 of the cover 1106 at a seamless interface via welding, casting, molding, additive manufacturing, etc. Further, alternatively, in the illustrated embodiment, the attachment unit 1104 has only one frame 1110. The frame 1110 has at least one deflectable mounting latch 1112 for releasably securing the outlet 1102 to the vent housing.

[0143] Figure 47 yes Figure 44First side view of outlet 1102 in the middle. Figure 48 yes Figure 44 The second side view of the outlet 1102 in the middle. Figure 48 The side shown is the same as Figure 47 The two sides shown are opposite. Figure 49 yes Figure 44 The first end elevation view of the outlet 1102 in the middle. Figure 50 yes Figure 44 The second end elevation view of the outlet 1102 in the middle. Figure 49 The end shown in the figure is with Figure 50 The two ends shown are opposite each other.

[0144] Figure 51 It is installed on panel 1020 according to the implementation method. Figure 47 The diagram shows a first side view of the outlet 1102. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 1106 covers a plurality of vents or PAOs defined by respective ventilation housings 1116. The ventilation housings 1116 are directly or indirectly coupled to the panel 1020. When the cover 1106 is pushed upward to engage with the panel 1020, the attachment unit 1104 of the outlet 1102 aligns with and enters one of the ventilation housings 1116A. Finally, at least one deflectable mounting latch 1112 of the attachment unit 1104 extends beyond the edge 1120 or lip of the ventilation housing 1116A and engages with the edge 1120. When secured in place via the attachment unit 1104, hook 1124, and / or guide rail 1004, the cover 1106 can be sealed to the panel 1020 at the interface 1126.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment, air can be guided into the cavity 1146 of the cover 1106 through the vent of the vent housing 1116. The air received from the housing 1116 can be combined with the airflow received from the guide rail 1004. An air curtain discharged through at least one slot 1132 of the outlet 1102 can be formed by the combined airflow.

[0146] Figure 52 This is a flowchart 1200 of a method for providing an air curtain according to an embodiment. The method may be a modification process. The method may include more steps, fewer steps, and / or different steps than shown in flowchart 1200. The method includes, at 1202, removing nozzles from air vents inside the vehicle's cabin. The air vents may be positioned above a row of seats. The nozzles may be vaporizers (e.g., PAOs).

[0147] At 1204, a cover for the outlet is installed to the panel of the inner compartment such that the cover covers the vent. The cover is installed after the nozzle is removed from the vent. The cover may be placed over the panel and is configured to cover at least two vents. The cover includes a bottom wall defining at least one slot therethrough.

[0148] At 1206, airflow is discharged through at least one slot of the cover to form an air curtain. The airflow used to form the air curtain may be air received in the cavity through an air inlet and / or air received from an air outlet. For example, before being discharged as an air curtain through at least one slot, airflow received from the guide rail through the air inlet may be combined with airflow received from the air outlet within the cavity.

[0149] An air curtain can be associated with a row of seats to provide passengers seated in that row with a continuous sheet of air that intercepts the transmission of atmospheric pathogens. Optionally, a cover can be formed and / or mounted to a panel to provide the air curtain at a position in front of the head of a passenger seated in that row. For example, at least one slot of the cover can be positioned in front of the row of seats along the longitudinal axis of the cabin. By providing the air curtain in front of the passenger's head, the air curtain can avoid interfering with or distracting the passenger's attention. Optionally, at least one slot defines an air curtain axis that is generally parallel to the row axis of the seat.

[0150] The cover may have a three-dimensional shape defining a cavity between a cover panel and a bottom wall. The cover may extend from a first end to a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the cover may define an air inlet to receive airflow generated by an airflow generator into the cavity. Mounting the cover to the panel may include mounting the first end of the cover to a guide rail. The guide rail defines a passage for delivering the airflow generated by the airflow generator along the length of the inner chamber. Mounting the first end of the cover to the guide rail establishes a fluid connection between the passage and the cavity of the cover through the air inlet.

[0151] Attaching the cover to the panel may include: engaging a hook at a second end of the cover onto the edge of the panel. Installation may include: inserting an attachment unit of the cover into a vent. The attachment unit is attached to an inner surface of the cover. The attachment unit may be releasably coupled to the cover via one or more deflectable coupling latches, fasteners, etc. Therefore, the method may include: coupling the attachment unit to the cover. In an alternative embodiment, the attachment unit is integrally connected to the cover such that the cover and the attachment unit define a unified whole. The attachment unit includes a frame and a deflectable mounting latch located on the frame. The frame extends into a vent defined by a vent housing, and the deflectable mounting latch engages with the vent housing to secure the cover to the panel.

[0152] As described herein, the air curtain system and method are configured to provide an air curtain that inhibits the spread of pathogens between people in an enclosed space or cabin during a journey, such as the interior of an aircraft or another type of passenger vehicle.

[0153] Item 1. A system 100 comprising: an outlet 1002 including a cover 1006 of a panel 1020 releasably mountable to an interior compartment 102 of a vehicle 104, the cover 1006 extending from a first end 1012 of the cover 1006 to a second end 1014 of the cover 1006 opposite to the first end 1012, the cover 1006 having a bottom wall 1028 covering the panel 1020 and defining at least one slot 1032 therethrough, wherein the cover 1006 receives airflow generated by an airflow generator 106, and the at least one slot 1032 discharges airflow from the cover 1006 to form an air curtain 110 within the interior compartment 102.

[0154] Item 2. The system 100 according to Item 1, wherein the cover 1006 has a three-dimensional shape and defines a cavity 1046 between the panel 1020 and the bottom wall 1028, and a first end 1012 of the cover 1006 defines an air inlet 1016 to receive airflow into the cavity 1046 before it is discharged from the cover 1006 through at least one slot 1032 to form an air curtain 110.

[0155] Item 3. The system 100 according to item 2 further includes: a guide rail 1004 defining a channel 1008, wherein the guide rail 1004 is coupled to a first end 1012 of the cover 1006 and the channel 1008 is fluidly connected to an air inlet 1016 of the cover 1006 to supply airflow to a cavity 1046 of the cover 1006.

[0156] Item 4. The system 100 according to item 3, wherein the guide rail 1004 is disposed at the outer wall 1038 of the inner compartment 102 and extends along the length of the inner compartment 102.

[0157] Item 5. The system 100 according to item 3 or 4, wherein the outlet 1002 is a first outlet 1002, and the system 100 includes a second outlet 1002, the second outlet 1002 including a second cover 1006 coupled to a guide rail 1004 at a location spaced apart from the cover 1006 of the first outlet 1002, the second outlet 1002 being configured to discharge airflow received from the passage 1008 of the guide rail 1004 through at least one slot 1032 of the second cover 1006 to form a second air curtain 110 within the cabin 102.

[0158] Item 6. The system 100 according to item 1 or item 2, wherein the panel 1020 is a component of a personal service unit (PSU) 909 of the aircraft 210, the PSU 909 including a plurality of vents 906 through which air is discharged from the PSU 909, wherein a cover 1006 mounted on the panel 1020 covers at least two of the vents 906 such that air discharged from at least two vents 906 is received in a cavity 1046 of the cover 1006 and combined at a first end 1012 of the cover 1006 with an airflow received through an air inlet 1016.

[0159] Item 7. The system 100 according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the cover 1006 is located above a row of seats 950 in the interior cabin 102, and at least one slot 1032 of the cover 1006 is positioned in front of the row of seats 950 along the longitudinal axis 130 of the interior cabin 102.

[0160] Item 8. The system 100 according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the outlet 1002 includes at least one blade 1054, the at least one blade 1054 being mounted to the inner surface 1048 of the cover 1006 and angled relative to the inner surface 1048 to guide airflow toward at least one slot 1032.

[0161] Item 9. The system 100 according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the cover 1006 is located above a row of seats 950 in the interior cabin 102, and at least one slot 1032 defines an air curtain axis 1039 that is generally parallel to the row axis 407 of the row of seats 950.

[0162] Item 10. The system 100 according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the outlet 1002 further includes an attachment unit 1018 mounted to the inner surface 1048 of the cover 1006, the attachment unit 1018 including a frame 1022 and a deflectable mounting latch 1062 located on the frame 1022, the frame 1022 being configured to extend to an vent defined by a vent housing 1084 connected to the panel 1020, and the deflectable mounting latch 1062 being configured to engage with the vent housing 1084 to secure the cover 1006 to the panel 1020.

[0163] Item 11. The system 100 according to item 10, wherein the attachment unit 1108 is releasably coupled to the cover 1006 via one or more deflectable coupling latches 1062.

[0164] Item 12. The system according to Item 10, wherein the attachment unit 1108 is integrally connected to the cover 1006 such that the cover 1006 and the attachment unit 1018 define a unified whole.

[0165] Item 13. A vehicle 104 comprising: an interior 102 including a row of seats 950 and a panel 1020 disposed above the row of seats 950; and an air curtain system 100 located within the interior 102, the air curtain system 100 including an outlet 1002, the outlet 1002 including a cover 1006 releasably mounted to the panel 1020 above the row of seats 950, the cover 1006 having a bottom wall 1028 covering the panel 1020 and defining at least one slot 1032 therethrough, wherein the cover 1006 receives airflow generated by an airflow generator 106, and the at least one slot 1032 discharges airflow from the cover 1006 to form an air curtain 110 associated with the row of seats 950 below.

[0166] Item 14. The vehicle 104 according to Item 13, wherein the cover 1006 defines a cavity 1046 between the panel 1020 and the bottom wall 1028, a first end 1012 of the cover 1006 defines an air inlet 1016, and the air curtain system 100 further includes a guide rail 1004 defining a channel 1008 through which airflow is directed from the airflow generator 106, wherein the guide rail 1004 is coupled to the first end 1012 of the cover 1006 and the channel 1008 is fluidly connected to the air inlet 1016 to supply airflow to the cavity 1046 of the cover 1006 before airflow is discharged from the cover 1006 through at least one slot 1032 to form an air curtain 110.

[0167] Item 15. The vehicle according to Item 13 or 14, wherein at least one slot 1032 defines an air curtain shaft 1039 generally parallel to the row shaft 407 of a row of seats 950, and at least one slot 1032 is positioned in front of a row of seats 950 along the longitudinal axis 130 of the interior 102.

[0168] Item 16. The vehicle 104 according to Item 13, wherein a cover 1006 defines a cavity 1046 between a panel 1020 and a bottom wall 1028, and the panel 1020 is a component of a personal service unit (PSU) 909 of an aircraft 210, the PSU 909 including a plurality of vents 906 through which air is discharged from the PSU 909, wherein a cover 1006 mounted on the panel 1020 covers at least two of the vents 906 such that air discharged from the at least two vents 906 is received into the cavity 1046 of the cover 1006 and combined before being discharged from the cover 1006 through at least one slot 1032 to form an air curtain 110.

[0169] Item 17. A system 100 comprising: a guide rail 1004 operatively connected to an airflow generator 106 of a vehicle 104, the guide rail 1004 defining a channel 1008 for delivering airflow from the airflow generator 106; and an outlet 1002 including a cover 1006 releasably mounted to a panel 1020 within the vehicle 104, the cover 1006 having a bottom wall 1028 covering the panel 1020 and defining at least one slot 1032 therethrough, the cover 1006 limiting A cavity 1046 is formed between the fixed panel 1020 and the bottom wall 1028, wherein a first end 1012 of the cover 1006 defines an air inlet 1016 and is coupled to a guide rail 1004 such that the air inlet 1016 is fluidly connected to a channel 1008 of the guide rail 1004, wherein the cover 1006 receives airflow from the guide rail 1004 within the cavity 1046, and the cover 1006 discharges airflow through at least one slot 1032 to form an air curtain 110 within the inner cabin 102.

[0170] Item 18. The system 100 according to Item 17, wherein panel 1020 is a component of personal service unit (PSU) 909 of vehicle 104, PSU 909 including a plurality of vents 906 through which air is discharged from PSU 909, wherein a cover 1006 mounted on panel 1020 covers at least two of the vents 906 such that air discharged from at least two vents 906 is received into cavity 1046 of cover 1006 and combined with airflow received from guide rail 1004 through air inlet 1016 at a first end 1012 of cover 1006 before being discharged through at least one slot 1032 to form air curtain 110.

[0171] Although various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, below, middle, horizontal, horizontal, vertical, and front can be used to describe embodiments of this disclosure, it should be understood that these terms are used only relative to the orientation shown in the accompanying drawings. The orientation can be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed so that the upper part is the lower part, and vice versa, the horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0172] As used herein, structures, constraints, or elements are structurally specifically formed, constructed, or adapted to perform tasks or operations in a manner corresponding to those tasks or operations. For clarity and to avoid ambiguity, objects that can only be modified to perform tasks or operations are not "configured" to perform the tasks or operations used herein.

[0173] As used herein, approximate value modifiers such as "approximately," "roughly," "usually," and "approximately," inserted before a numerical value, indicate that the value can represent other values ​​within a specified threshold range above and / or below the specified value without causing a change in the basic functionality associated with it. Accordingly, a value modified by one or more terms such as "approximately," "roughly," "usually," and "approximately" may not be limited to the specified precise value. Approximate terms can indicate values ​​within a specified threshold margin that includes the precise value. The threshold margin can be 3% plus or minus the precise value, 5% plus or minus the precise value, 10% plus or minus the precise value, etc. In one embodiment, two normally parallel items or axes may be within an angle of 3 degrees to each other, and in a second embodiment, within an angle of 5 degrees to each other, and in a third embodiment, within an angle of 10 degrees to each other.

[0174] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) described above can be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt specific situations or materials to the teachings of the various embodiments of this disclosure without departing from its scope. Although the scale and type of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of this disclosure, the embodiments are not limited in any way 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 referring to the appended claims and the full scope accorded to their equivalents. In the appended claims and the detailed description herein, the terms “comprising” and “wherein” are used as equivalents to the corresponding terms “including” and “there”. Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the limitations of the appended claims are not described in writing as means plus function and are not intended to be interpreted on the basis of 35 U.S.SC §112(f), unless and until the limitations of the claims are explicitly described by the phrase “means for…” followed by a functional statement without any other structure.

[0175] This written description describes various embodiments of the present disclosure, including the best mode, and enables those skilled in the art to implement the various embodiments of the present disclosure, including utilizing and using any device or system and performing any integrated method. The pursuable scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other embodiments made by those skilled in the art. Such other embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the wording of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the wording of the claims.

Claims

1. A system (100) for a vehicle cabin, the system comprising: The outlet includes a cover (1006) for a panel (1020) releasably mounted to an interior compartment (102) of a vehicle (104) of which the cover (1006) has a bottom wall (1028) covering the panel (1020) and defining a cavity (1046) between the panel (1020) and the bottom wall (1028). The bottom wall defines at least one slot (1032) through which the bottom wall extends from a first end (1012) of the cover (1006) to a portion of the cover (1006) opposite to the first end (1012). The second end (1014) of the first end (1012) defines an air inlet (1016) communicating with the cavity (1046) and is configured to be coupled to a guide rail (1004) such that the air inlet (1016) is in fluid connection with a channel (1008) defined by the guide rail, wherein the cover (1006) is configured to receive airflow entering the cavity (1046) from the guide rail through the air inlet and to discharge the airflow from the cavity through the at least one slot (1032) in the bottom wall to form an air curtain (110) in the inner chamber (102).

2. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The guide rail (1004) is located on the outer wall (1038) of the inner cabin (102) and extends along the length of the inner cabin (102).

3. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The outlet is a first outlet, and the system (100) includes a second outlet, the second outlet including a second cover coupled to the guide rail (1004) at a location spaced apart from the cover (1006) of the first outlet, the second outlet being configured to discharge the airflow received from the channel (1008) of the guide rail (1004) through at least one slot (1032) of the second cover to form a second air curtain within the cabin (102).

4. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The panel (1020) is a component of the personal service unit (PSU) (909) of the aircraft (210), the PSU (909) including a plurality of air vents (906) through which air is discharged from the PSU (909), wherein a cover (1006) mounted on the panel (1020) covers at least two of the air vents (906) such that the air discharged from the at least two air vents (906) is received in the cavity (1046) of the cover (1006) and combined at the first end (1012) of the cover (1006) with the airflow received through the air inlet (1016).

5. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The cover (1006) is located above a row of seats (950) inside the cabin (102), and at least one slot (1032) of the cover (1006) is positioned in front of the row of seats (950) along the longitudinal axis (130) of the cabin (102).

6. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The outlet includes at least one blade (1054) mounted to the inner surface (1048) of the cover (1006) and angled relative to the inner surface (1048) to guide the airflow toward the at least one slot (1032).

7. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The cover (1006) is located above a row of seats (950) inside the cabin (102), and the at least one slot (1032) defines an air curtain shaft (1039) parallel to the row shaft (407) of the row of seats (950).

8. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The outlet also includes an attachment unit mounted to the inner surface (1048) of the cover (1006), the attachment unit including a frame (1022) and a deflectable mounting latch (1066) located on the frame (1022), the frame (1022) being configured to extend to an vent defined by a vent housing (1084) connected to the panel (1020), the deflectable mounting latch (1066) being configured to engage with the vent housing (1084) to secure the cover (1006) to the panel (1020).

9. The system (100) according to claim 8, wherein, The attachment unit is releasably coupled to the cover (1006) via one or more deflectable coupling latches (1062).

10. The system (100) according to claim 8, wherein, The attachment unit is integrally connected to the cover (1006) so that the cover (1006) and the attachment unit define a unified whole.

11. A means of transport (104), comprising: The interior cabin (102) includes a row of seats (950) and a panel (1020) disposed above the row of seats (950). as well as An air curtain system (100), located within the interior cabin (102), includes an outlet comprising a cover (1006) releasably mountable to a panel (1020) located above the row of seats (950), the cover (1006) having a bottom wall (1028) covering the panel (1020) and defining a cavity (1046) between the panel (1020) and the bottom wall (1028), the bottom wall defining at least one slot (1032) through the bottom wall, the bottom wall extending from a first end (1012) of the cover (1006) to... The cover (1006) has a second end (1014) opposite to the first end (1012), the first end (1012) defining an air inlet (1016) communicating with the cavity (1046) and configured to be coupled to a guide rail (1004) such that the air inlet (1016) is in fluid connection with a channel defined by the guide rail, wherein the cover (1006) is configured to receive airflow entering the cavity (1046) from the guide rail through the air inlet and to discharge the airflow from the cavity through the at least one slot (1032) in the bottom wall to form an air curtain (110) associated with the row of seats (950) below.

12. The means of transport (104) according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one slot (1032) defines an air curtain axis (1039) parallel to the row axis (407) of the row of seats (950), and the at least one slot (1032) is positioned in front of the row of seats (950) along the longitudinal axis (130) of the cabin (102).

13. The means of transport (104) according to claim 11, wherein, The cover (1006) defines a cavity (1046) between the panel (1020) and the bottom wall (1028), and the panel (1020) is a component of a personal service unit (PSU) (909) of an aircraft (210), the PSU (909) including a plurality of vents (906) through which air is discharged from the PSU (909), wherein the cover (1006) mounted on the panel (1020) covers at least two of the vents (906) such that the air discharged from the at least two vents (906) is received into the cavity (1046) of the cover (1006) and combined before being discharged from the cover (1006) through the at least one slot (1032) to form the air curtain (110).

14. A system (100) for a vehicle cabin, the system comprising: A guide rail (1004), operatively connected to an airflow generator (106) of a vehicle (104), the guide rail (1004) defining a channel (1008) for delivering airflow from the airflow generator (106); and The outlet includes a cover (1006) releasably mountable to a panel (1020) within the vehicle (104), the cover (1006) having a bottom wall (1028) covering the panel (1020) and defining a cavity (1046) between the panel (1020) and the bottom wall (1028), the bottom wall defining at least one slot (1032) through the bottom wall, wherein the bottom wall extends from a first end (1012) of the cover (1006) to a second end (1014) of the cover (1006) opposite to the first end (1012). The first end (1012) defines an air inlet (1016) communicating with the cavity (1046), and the first end (1012) is coupled to the guide rail (1004) such that the air inlet (1016) is fluidly connected to the channel (1008) of the guide rail (1004), wherein the cover (1006) is configured to receive airflow entering the cavity (1046) from the guide rail through the air inlet, and the cover (1006) discharges the airflow from the cavity through the at least one slot (1032) to form an air curtain (110) in the inner chamber (102).

15. The system (100) according to claim 14, wherein, The panel (1020) is a component of the personal service unit (PSU) (909) of the vehicle (104), the PSU (909) including a plurality of air vents (906) through which air is discharged from the PSU (909), wherein a cover (1006) mounted on the panel (1020) covers at least two of the air vents (906) such that the air discharged from the at least two air vents (906) is received in the cavity (1046) of the cover (1006) and combined at the first end (1012) of the cover (1006) with the airflow received from the guide rail (1004) through the air inlet (1016) before being discharged through the at least one slot (1032) to form the air curtain (110).

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