Movement control of a table in an aircraft passenger suite

Abstract

An aircraft passenger suite (200) and a method are provided. The aircraft passenger suite includes a console (150) and a table (130) movably mounted to the console, the table being movable along a table path between a first position and a second position; a controller (210) controlling the electromechanical movement of the table along the table path, the controller including an actuation input for receiving an indication to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table. The suite includes a sensing device for sensing the presence of any obstruction on the table path and providing an indication to the controller of the presence of any obstruction on the table path. The controller is configured to prevent the electromechanical movement of the table along the table path if the controller receives an indication of the presence of an obstruction on the table path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure pertains to aircraft passenger suites.

[0002] More specifically, but not exclusively, this disclosure relates to an aircraft passenger suite including a console and a table movably mounted to the console, the table being movable along a table path relative to the console between a first position and a second position. This disclosure also relates to a method for controlling the movement of the table within the aircraft passenger suite. Background Technology

[0003] Aircraft passenger suites can be located within, for example, the first-class or business-class sections of an aircraft. A suite typically includes a seat for passenger use and an outer shell structure that at least partially surrounds the seat. The suite may also include one or more consoles near the seat, and one or more tables (e.g., dining tables). The tables can move between a stowed configuration and an unfolded configuration. The tables are typically stowed during taxiing, takeoff, and landing, and can be unfolded by the passenger during flight when needed. When stowed, the table can be housed within a console in the suite, such as a side console located next to the seat.

[0004] However, stowing and / or unfolding tables can be a cumbersome and / or complicated task for passengers, especially when the tables are to be stowed in the suite's control panel. Furthermore, when tables need to be stowed, such as during landing, passengers may not be able to (or simply cannot) stow them correctly. This disclosure seeks to reduce the aforementioned problems. Alternatively or concurrently, this disclosure seeks to provide an improved aircraft passenger suite and a method for controlling the movement of tables within the aircraft passenger suite. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, this disclosure provides an aircraft passenger suite including a console and a table movably mounted to the console. The table is movable relative to the console between the first position and the second position along a table path. The aircraft passenger suite includes a controller for controlling the electromechanical movement of the table along the table path. The controller includes an activation input for receiving an indication to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table. The aircraft passenger suite includes a sensing device for sensing the presence of any obstruction on the table path and providing an indication to the controller of the presence of any obstruction on the table path. The controller is configured to prevent the electromechanical movement of the table along the table path if the controller receives an indication of the presence of an obstruction on the table path.

[0006] For passengers, providing electromechanical movement of the tables within aircraft suites is more convenient than requiring manual movement. Electromechanical movement allows the unfolding / retraction of tables to be controlled via a single-touch process (e.g., a passenger touches a button once, initiating the unfolding / retraction and continuing until completion or until an object is detected in the table's path). This single-touch process is easier, faster, and / or more convenient than manually unfolding and / or retracting tables. Furthermore, this electromechanical movement can be performed in a more reliable and repeatable manner compared to situations where passengers need to move tables in a specific way. In some cases, because the table movement is controlled by a controller, passengers do not need to know or be informed how the table will move. In other cases, the initiation of table movement can be indicated from outside the suite. For example, when the aircraft is ready to land, a signal (e.g., from cabin crew) can be provided to each passenger suite to instruct the initiation of table retrieval. Therefore, when the aircraft is ready to land, there is no need to rely on passengers to properly retrieval the tables.

[0007] Furthermore, by providing sensing devices to detect the presence of any obstacles in the table's path, the electromechanical movement of the table becomes more reliable and / or safer. Specifically, collisions between the table and other objects and / or objects becoming trapped or stuck can be avoided. Therefore, control of the movable table can be performed in an intelligent and reliable manner. Preferably, the sensing devices are configured to sense the presence of any obstacles along the table's path that are further ahead of the table in its direction of travel. Preferably, the sensing devices are configured to sense the presence of any obstacles in the table's path without requiring contact between the table and an obstacle. Preferably, the sensing devices are configured to sense the presence of any obstacles in the table's path that the table might come into contact with if the electromechanical movement is initiated or continues. Preferably, the sensing devices are configured to sense the presence of obstacles along the table's path that the table might later come into contact with.

[0008] Aircraft passenger suites may include aircraft seats for passenger use. Preferably, the control console is located near the seat. That is, the control console may be located to the side of the seat. Therefore, the control console may include a side control console of the seat.

[0009] Movement of the table along a table path may include moving the table into and / or out of the console. When the table is in a first position, it can be substantially stowed inside the console. Therefore, the first position may be referred to as the "stowed position." This is more space-efficient than stowing the table outside the console. In such an example, the console includes a stowage compartment for stowing the table. Preferably, the console includes a cover for covering the stowage compartment. When the table is in a second position, it can be outside the console. The second position may be referred to as the "expanded position." Therefore, unfolding the table may include moving the table from the first position to the second position, and stowing the table may include moving the table from the second position to the first position. According to an example, the controller may be configured to electromechanically unfold and / or stow the table. Preferably, the controller is configured to electromechanically lift the cover of the stowage compartment covering the console as part of the unfolding / stowing process.

[0010] Preferably, the table comprises a double-folding table. Thus, the table consists of two parts connected by hinges. When the table is in its folded configuration, it can be unfolded / retrieved. When fully unfolded, the table can be used by passengers. Folding the table in its folded configuration is more space-efficient than folding it in its unfolded configuration.

[0011] In some examples, the unfolding / retraction of the table comprises several stages. At least some of these stages are performed using electromechanical actuation. In some cases, the unfolding / retraction is partly electromechanical (i.e., controlled by a controller) and partly manual (i.e., controlled by a passenger or crew member). Preferably, in the first stage of unfolding, the table is electromechanically moved off the console. This can be a translational movement. In the second stage of unfolding, the table pivots about a hinge. The pivoting of the table can cause the table to move from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation for passenger use. As used herein, “vertical” and “horizontal” are relative to a suite in the aircraft cabin. That is, the vertical axis extends between the cabin floor and the cabin ceiling, and the horizontal axis extends substantially parallel to the cabin floor. The pivoting of the table can be performed manually or electromechanically. Preferably, the pivoting is performed electromechanically (e.g., using a motor controlled by a controller). This allows the pivoting to be performed in a controlled manner. The speed of the pivoting depends on the speed of the motor. In the third stage of unfolding, the table comprises a double-folding table, and the table is unfolded. The table can be unfolded manually or electromechanically.

[0012] Similarly, the stowage of the table may include a first stage of folding, a second stage of pivoting, and a third stage of moving the table into the control console. Moving the table from a first position to a second position may correspond to the first, second, and / or third stages of unfolding / stowing. Preferably, moving the table from the first position to the second position corresponds to the first stage of unfolding (i.e., moving the table out of the control console) or the third stage of stowing (i.e., moving the table into the control console). However, in some cases, moving the table from the first position to the second position corresponds to the second stage of unfolding / stowing (i.e., pivoting the table from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation, or from a horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation).

[0013] Preferably, when the table is in its unfolded state, the usable surface area of ​​the table is at least 3000 cm². 2 More preferably, the usable surface area of ​​the table in its unfolded state is at least 4000 cm². 2 .

[0014] In some examples, when the table is in its unfolded state, it is configured to translate in a plane substantially parallel to the table's plane. For example, the table can translate toward and away from the aircraft seats. This translation may include translation in the fore-and-aft direction. As used herein, "fore" and "aft" are relative to a suite within the aircraft cabin. Preferably, the table is configured to translate fore-and-aft from a central position in any direction by at least 10 cm, more preferably at least 15 cm. Folding the table back may include translating the table to a central position. This central position may be adjacent to the stowed compartment of the console.

[0015] In some examples, when the table is in its unfolded state, it is configured to rotate about an axis substantially perpendicular to the table's plane. Preferably, the table is configured to rotate at least 75 degrees when unfolded, and more preferably at least 90 degrees. This allows passengers to move the table to a convenient position.

[0016] Preferably, the suite also includes furniture movable along a furniture path between a first position and a second position. In an intersection area of ​​the furniture path, the furniture path intersects with the table path. Sensing devices can be configured to sense whether furniture is located in the intersection area and provide an indication to the controller whether furniture is in the intersection area. Therefore, when furniture is located in the intersection area, it is an obstacle present on the table path. In some examples, the furniture path includes an intersection area and at least one safety area. When furniture is located in at least one safety area, it is not an obstacle present on the table path. Thus, when furniture is located in the safety area, the table can be electromechanically unfolded / folded, while when furniture is located in the intersection area, the table cannot be electromechanically unfolded / folded.

[0017] Preferably, the furniture includes a second table. The second table may be smaller than the first table. For example, the first table may include a dining table, while the furniture may include a cocktail table. Therefore, the electromechanical movement of the dining table can be controlled based on its position within the suite.

[0018] Furniture and amenities can be movably mounted to the control panel. Preferably, the furniture and amenities are slidably mounted to the control panel. In some examples, the furniture and amenities are at least partially located above the upper surface of the control panel, which is the surface furthest from the aircraft cabin floor when the suite is located in the cabin. The furniture and amenities are capable of sliding relative to the control panel in the fore-and-aft direction. For example, the furniture and amenities can slide toward and away from the aircraft seats. This allows passengers to move the furniture and amenities and makes them more easily accessible when seated in an aircraft passenger suite. The movement of the furniture and amenities relative to the control panel can be electromechanical and / or manually actuated.

[0019] In some examples, the furniture path is substantially perpendicular to the table path, where the furniture path intersects the table path. For example, in the intersection area, the table can move along the table path in a substantially vertical direction, and the furniture can move along the furniture path in a substantially horizontal direction. When the table moves along the table path, the plane of the table can be oriented substantially vertically. In examples where the furniture includes a second table, when the second table moves along the furniture path, the plane of the second table can be oriented substantially horizontally. In alternative embodiments, the table and / or furniture can move in other directions and / or planes.

[0020] Preferably, the sensing device is partially disposed on the console and partially disposed on the furniture. That is, the sensing device can be distributed between the console and the furniture. Distributing the sensing device between the console and the furniture facilitates the sensing of the accurate position of the furniture relative to the console. The sensing device may include a sensor and a triggering device for triggering the sensor. One of the sensor and the triggering device may be disposed on the console, and the other of the sensor and the triggering device may be disposed on the furniture. In other examples, the sensing device is disposed only on the console or only on the furniture. In some examples, the sensing device is disposed on a table.

[0021] The sensing device may include a Hall effect sensor and a magnet. In some examples, the Hall effect sensor is disposed on the furniture and the magnet is disposed on a console. The console may include a magnetic strip disposed at a position corresponding to the intersection area. In other examples, the Hall effect sensor is disposed on the console and the magnet is disposed on the furniture. The Hall effect sensor may be disposed at a position on the console corresponding to the intersection area. In either case, the magnitude of the magnetic field detected by the Hall effect sensor, and therefore the output of the Hall effect sensor, depends on the position of the furniture along its path.

[0022] In some examples, the sensing device includes a rotation sensor, a cable reel connected to the rotation sensor, and a cable. The cable is wound on the cable reel so that movement of the furniture relative to the console causes the cable reel to rotate. The rotation sensor senses the rotation of the cable reel. In some examples, the cable reel is fixed to the console, and the cable is connected to the furniture. In other examples, the cable reel is connected to the furniture, and the cable is connected to the console. In either case, the output of the rotation sensor depends on the position of the furniture along its path.

[0023] The sensor device may include a quick-acting switch. For example, the sensor device may include a micro switch. The switch may include a mechanical lever. Based on the position of the lever, the switch configuration can change from "on" to "off," or vice versa. The sensor device may also include a structure shaped to actuate the lever when furniture moves into or out of an intersection area. The structure may be located on a console, and the switch may be disposed on the furniture. In other examples, the switch is disposed on a console, and the structure is disposed on the furniture. In either case, the switch is configured to be on / off depending on the position of the furniture along the furniture path.

[0024] In some examples, the sensor device includes a distance measuring device. The controller can be configured to determine the location of furniture or other items based on distance input received from the distance measuring device. The distance measuring device may include a signal transmitter for emitting a signal at a first time and a signal receiver for receiving a signal at a second time, the time difference between the first and second times corresponding to the distance being measured. The signal transmitter may emit, for example, infrared or ultrasonic signals. In some examples, the signal transmitter and receiver are positioned substantially adjacent to each other (e.g., both are located on a console). In other examples, one of the transmitter and receiver is located on the console, and the other is located on the furniture or other items.

[0025] In some examples, the controller is configured to receive an instruction to initiate electromechanical movement of the table, and to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table in response to the received instruction. For example, the instruction may be received due to actuation of a button or other user control mechanism. The movement of the table can be in any direction along the table path, such as from a first position to a second position, or from a second position to a first position. Thus, the electromechanical movement of the table can be used to fold up or unfold the table. After initiating the electromechanical movement of the table, the controller is configured to receive an indication of the presence of an obstacle in the table path. In response to the received indication of the presence of an obstacle in the table path, the controller is configured to stop the electromechanical movement of the table. In this way, the electromechanical movement of the table can be initiated and subsequently stopped if / when an obstacle is detected.

[0026] In some examples, the controller is configured to receive from the sensing device an indication that an obstacle exists in the table path, an indication to initiate electromechanical movement of the table, and an indication to prevent electromechanical movement of the table. Therefore, since the indication indicates the presence of an obstacle in the table path, the controller does not implement the indication to initiate electromechanical movement of the table. In some examples, the controller is configured to receive from the sensing device a subsequent second indication that no obstacle exists in the table path. In response to the second indication, the controller is configured to initiate electromechanical movement of the table along the table path. In this way, the controller can first prevent, then initiate and / or resume electromechanical movement of the table. Preferably, the electromechanical movement of the table is resumed regardless of whether a subsequent second indication to initiate electromechanical movement of the table is received. The above operation allows the unfolding / folding of the table to be controlled via a single-touch process.

[0027] Preferably, the controller is configured to provide an alarm if it receives an indication that an obstruction exists in the table path. The alarm is used to notify passengers and / or crew of the obstruction in the table path. The alarm may include a visual alarm. In some examples, the controller is configured to provide a visual alarm displayed on or near the furniture. For example, a light on the surface of the furniture may be turned on. The light may include a flashing light. The alarm (flashing light) allows passengers to be informed of the specific furniture preventing the electromechanical movement of the table. Alternatively, the visual alarm may be displayed via the aircraft cabin's display system. When a passenger moves the furniture out of the intersection area, the electromechanical movement of the table may be activated and / or resumed, and / or the alarm may be deactivated.

[0028] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided for controlling the electromechanical movement of a table in an aircraft passenger suite, the table being movably mounted to a console and movable along a table path relative to the console between a first position and a second position. The method includes: receiving an instruction to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table; receiving from a sensing device an indication of the presence of an obstacle on the table path; and if the indication of the presence of an obstacle on the table path is received, preventing the electromechanical movement of the table. Preferably, an obstacle further forward of the table along the table path is detected in the direction of travel of the table. Preferably, the obstacle is located at a position along the table path, meaning that if the electromechanical movement is initiated or continues, the table will later come into contact with the obstacle. Preferably, the electromechanical movement of the table is prevented before the table could come into contact with the obstacle.

[0029] Electromechanical movement of a table may include folding and / or unfolding the table. In some examples, the method includes initiating electromechanical movement of the table in response to a received instruction. After initiating the movement of the table, an indication of the presence of an obstacle in the table's path may be received. In response to the received indication of the presence of an obstacle in the table's path, the movement of the table may be stopped. In other words, electromechanical unfolding and / or folding of the table may be initiated, and then the electromechanical unfolding and / or folding of the table may be stopped if / when an obstacle is sensed in the unfolded / folded path.

[0030] In some examples, the method sequentially includes: receiving from the sensing device an indication that an obstacle exists in the table path; receiving an indication to initiate electromechanical movement of the table; and preventing the electromechanical movement of the table. Thus, if an indication that an obstacle exists in the table path is received, the electromechanical movement of the table is prevented regardless of any received indication to initiate electromechanical movement.

[0031] In some examples, the method includes receiving an indication from a sensing device regarding the presence of an obstacle on the table path, and in response to the received indication that no obstacle is present on the table path, initiating electromechanical movement of the table along the table path. Initiating the electromechanical movement may include resuming the electromechanical movement. For example, when an obstacle is detected on the table path, the electromechanical movement of the table may be stopped, and then resumed when no obstacle is detected on the table path. In some examples, the resumption may be performed without further indication for initiating the electromechanical movement.

[0032] According to a third aspect, a table control device for an aircraft passenger suite is provided. The table control device includes a console and a table movably mounted to the console. The table is movable relative to the console along a table path between a first position and a second position. The table control device includes a controller for controlling electromechanical movement of the table along the table path. The controller includes an activation input for receiving an indication to initiate electromechanical movement of the table. The table control device also includes furniture utilities movably mounted to the console. The furniture utilities are movable along a furniture utilities path between a first position and a second position. In an intersection area of ​​the furniture utilities path, the furniture utilities path intersects the table path. The table control device includes a sensing device for sensing whether the furniture utilities are in the intersection area. The controller is configured to prevent electromechanical movement of the table along the table path if the controller receives an indication that the furniture utilities are in the intersection area.

[0033] Of course, it should be understood that features described with respect to one aspect of this disclosure can be incorporated into other aspects of this disclosure. For example, the methods of this disclosure can be combined with any features described with reference to the apparatus of this disclosure, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein:

[0035] Figure 1 A perspective view of an aircraft passenger suite according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0036] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of a table control device according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0037] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A perspective view of a table control device according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0038] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A perspective view of a table control device according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0039] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A perspective view of a table control device according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0040] Figure 6 A side view of the table control device according to the first embodiment is shown;

[0041] Figure 7 A side view of the table control device according to the first embodiment is shown;

[0042] Figure 8 A side view of the table control device according to the second embodiment is shown;

[0043] Figure 9 A side view of the table control device according to the third embodiment is shown; and

[0044] Figures 10A to 10C A table control device according to a fourth embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Figure 1 A perspective view of an aircraft passenger suite 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0046] Suite 100 includes an aircraft seat 110 and a footrest 115 located opposite the seat 110, which provides a footrest function for the passenger seated in the seat 110. Suite 100 also includes an outer shell structure 120 or enclosure defining the boundaries of suite 100. The outer shell structure 120 has a gap 122 to allow entry / exit from suite 100.

[0047] Suite 100 includes a dining table 130. The dining table 130 can be unfolded for passenger use and is stowed when not in use. The dining table 130 can also be stowed during specific events, such as taxiing, takeoff, and landing (TTL). In this embodiment, the dining table 130 is a double-folding table. The unfolding of the double-folding table is part of the unfolding process, and the folding of the double-folding table is part of the stowing process. The dining table 130 is movably mounted to console 150 and can be stowed within console 150. This will be described in more detail below. Console 150 is positioned adjacent to seat 110. Therefore, console 150 includes a side console. Console 150 is located between seat 110 and the side wall of the housing structure 120.

[0048] Suite 100 also includes a cocktail table 140. The cocktail table 140 can be used by passengers even when the dining table 130 is stowed away. The cocktail table 140 is mounted on console 150 and can slide along the upper surface of console 150, which will be described in more detail below.

[0049] Suite 100 is also equipped with a display system 160. In other examples, suite 100 may include more, fewer, and / or different components.

[0050] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of a table control device 200 according to a first embodiment is shown. The device 200 can be used in the above-described reference. Figure 1The aircraft passenger suite 100 is described. The apparatus 200 includes a dining table 130, a cocktail table 140, and a console 150. The console 150 includes a cover 205 for covering a retractable compartment (not shown) of the console 150.

[0051] The device 200 also includes a controller 210 for controlling the electromechanical movement of the dining table 130. The controller 210 includes a processing system. The processing system includes one or more processors and / or a memory. The controller 210 is configured to receive indications and / or electronic signals, and to control the electromechanical movement of the dining table 130 based on such indications and / or signals.

[0052] Figure 2A The dining table 130 is shown in its unfolded position. Figure 2B In the middle, the dining table 130 is folded up inside the control panel 150.

[0053] In other examples, device 200 may include more, fewer, and / or different components. In some examples, controller 210 is not part of device 200. In such examples, the movement of table 130 can be remotely controlled (i.e., controller 210 may be located in a different location from device 200). In some examples, device 200 does not include cocktail table 140.

[0054] Figure 3A and 3B A perspective view of a table control device 200 according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the dining table 130 moves between an unfolded configuration and a stowed configuration.

[0055] exist Figure 3A In this configuration, the dining table 130 folds around a hinge extending along its center. This makes the dining table 130 more compact for easy storage. Furthermore, when in its folded configuration, the dining table can be used by passengers as a worktable, etc.

[0056] exist Figure 3BIn this embodiment, a pivot-folding dining table 130 is brought into console 150. The pivot-folding dining table 130 involves moving the folded dining table 130 from a horizontal orientation (i.e., substantially parallel to the cabin floor when suite 100 is positioned in the cabin) to a vertical orientation (i.e., substantially perpendicular to the cabin floor when suite 100 is positioned in the cabin). The dining table 130 is mounted to console 150 via a support arm 310. The support arm 310 pivots about a hinge 315 connected to the bottom of the support arm 310, thereby pivoting the dining table 130 from the horizontal orientation toward the vertical orientation. In this embodiment, the rotation of the support arm 310 is electromechanically (e.g., driven by a motor). When the dining table 130 is in the vertical orientation, the dining table 130 can be translated downwards and into console 150, thereby folding the dining table 130. In this embodiment, the translation of the dining table 130 is electromechanically (e.g., driven by a motor). In addition, the lid 205 is electromechanically opened to allow the dining table 130 to enter the console 150. Similarly, in order to unfold the dining table 130, the dining table 130 can be moved upward and out of the console 150, then pivoted to a horizontal orientation, and finally unfolded.

[0057] Electromechanical movements of the dining table 130 into and / or out of the console 150 are performed by an actuator mechanism (not shown) controlled by the controller 210. The actuator mechanism is housed within the console 150. For example, the actuator mechanism may include gears, levers, rotary dampers, guides, and / or motors. The unfolding / retraction of the dining table 130 is actuated by pressing a control button (not shown), which may be located on or near the console 150. Pressing the control button causes an indication to be sent to the controller 210 to initiate electromechanical movements of the dining table 130 using the actuator mechanism. In this embodiment, the control button is provided with a "press and hold" feature to prevent accidental unfolding / retraction. In addition to receiving indications via actuation of the control button, the controller 210 is configured to receive and process inputs from sensing devices, as will be described in more detail below.

[0058] As described above, the cocktail table 140 can slide along the upper surface of the console 150. The cocktail table 140 can move along a cocktail table path. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Cocktail table 140 is located at the very end of the path along the cocktail table area. (Go to...) Figure 4A and Figure 4B Cocktail table 140 is located at the very front of the path along the cocktail table. The terms "rear" and "front" as used herein are relative to suite 100 in the aircraft, where seat 110 faces forward. Figure 4A In the middle, the dining table 130 was unfolded, and in Figure 4B In the middle, table number 130 was removed. Figure 2A and Figure 2B , Figure 3A and Figure 3B as well as Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the structure shown, the cocktail table 140 does not obstruct the movement of the dining table 130 into / out of the console 150.

[0059] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A perspective view of the table control device 200 is shown when the cocktail table 140 is located between the rearmost and frontmost positions.

[0060] exist Figure 5A In this configuration, the dining table 130 is stowed within the control panel 150. The cocktail table 140 is located in the cocktail table path, thus obstructing the movement of the dining table 130 out of the control panel 150. Therefore, the cocktail table 140 is an obstacle in the dining table path.

[0061] exist Figure 5B In the configuration, the dining table 130 is located in the unfolded structure. The cocktail table 140 is positioned on the cocktail table path, such that the cocktail table 140 obstructs the movement of the dining table 130 into the position of the control panel 150. Therefore, the cocktail table 140 is an obstacle on the dining table path.

[0062] Figure 6 A side view of a table control device 200 according to a first embodiment is shown. Figure 6 In the diagram, cocktail table 140 is shown in two positions 140a and 140b to illustrate that cocktail table 140 can be translated along a path substantially the length of console 150. Dining table 130 is shown in its unfolded configuration. Cocktail table 140 is mounted to console 150 via a connecting arm 605. The connecting arm 605 is movably connected to a track on console 150 to allow cocktail table 140 to translate along console 150.

[0063] The cocktail table path includes a first safety zone 610, a crossover zone 620, and a second safety zone 630. When the cocktail table 140 is located in either safety zone 610 or 630, the cocktail table 140 does not obstruct the movement of the dining table 130. When the cocktail table 140 is located in the crossover zone 620, the cocktail table 140 obstructs the movement of the dining table 130. When the cocktail table 140 is located in the crossover zone 620, the electromechanical movement of the dining table 130 is prevented.

[0064] Figure 7 A side view of a table control device 200 according to a first embodiment is shown. The device 200 includes a sensing device 700. The sensing device 700 is used to sense whether the cocktail table 140 is located in the intersection area 620.

[0065] In this embodiment, the sensing device 700 includes a Hall effect sensor 710 and a magnetic strip 720. The Hall effect sensor 710 is connected to the cocktail table 140. Specifically, the Hall effect sensor 710 is disposed on the linkage arm 605. The magnetic strip 720 is disposed on the console 150 in an area corresponding to the intersection region 620. If the cocktail table 140 is located in the intersection region 620, the Hall effect sensor 710 generates an output due to the proximity of the magnetic strip 720. This output indicates that the cocktail table 140 is in a position that prevents the table 130 from moving. The output of the Hall effect sensor 710 is provided to the controller 210. If the controller 210 receives an indication from the Hall effect sensor 710 that the cocktail table 140 is in an obstructed position, the controller 210 prevents the electromechanical movement of the table 130. If the controller 210 does not receive an indication that the cocktail table 140 is in an obstructed position (e.g., if the controller 210 receives an indication that the cocktail table 140 is in one of the safety areas 610, 630), the electromechanical movement of the table 130 is not prevented. In other examples, alternatively, the magnetic strip 720 may also be positioned in one or more areas corresponding to security areas 610, 630. It should be noted that although the cocktail table 140 and the Hall effect sensor 710 are... Figure 7 The text shows two instances of the cocktail table 140, but this is to illustrate the different positions 140a and 140b of the cocktail table 140 relative to the console 150. However, in other examples, more than one cocktail table 140 may be provided.

[0066] Figure 8 A side view of a table control device 200 according to a second embodiment is shown.

[0067] In this embodiment, device 200 includes a sensing device 800 comprising a magnet 810 connected to a cocktail table 140 and a plurality of Hall effect sensors 820 disposed on a console 150. The Hall effect sensors 820 are disposed in areas corresponding to safety zones 610, 630. When the cocktail table 140 is located within safety zones 610, 630, the proximity of the magnet 810 causes one or more Hall effect sensors 820 to generate an output, which is received by a controller 210. This allows the controller 210 to determine the position of the cocktail table 140, thereby determining whether the cocktail table 140 will obstruct the electromechanical movement of the table 130. In other examples, one or more Hall effect sensors 820 may be disposed in areas corresponding to intersection zones 620. Distributing multiple Hall effect sensors 820 at different locations on the console 150 allows for a more precise determination of the position of the cocktail table 140 relative to the console 150.

[0068] Figure 9 A side view of a table control device 200 according to a third embodiment is shown.

[0069] In this embodiment, the device includes a sensing device 900 comprising a cable 910, a cable reel 920, and a rotation sensor 930. The cable reel 920 is connected to a console 150. The cable 910 is wound around the cable reel 920 and connected to a cocktail table 140. Therefore, movement of the cocktail table 140 relative to the console 150 causes rotation of the cable reel 920. The rotation sensor 930 is connected to the cable reel 920 and generates an output based on the rotation of the cable reel 920. Thus, the position and / or movement of the cocktail table 140 can be determined, and if the cocktail table 140 is determined to be located within the intersection area 620, electromechanical movement of the table 130 can be prevented.

[0070] Figure 10A A perspective view of a table control device 200 according to a fourth embodiment is shown. Figure 10B A partial enlarged view of part 1005 of the device 200 is shown.

[0071] In this embodiment, the device 200 includes a sensing device 1000 having a quick-acting switch 1010. The quick-acting switch 1010 is schematically located in... Figure 10C As shown in the diagram, the quick-acting switch 1010 includes a mechanical lever 1015. Lever 1015 is movable between an open position 1016 and a closed position 1017. When lever 1015 is in the open position 1016, switch 1010 is "off". When lever 1015 is in the closed position 1017, switch 1010 is "on". The sensing device 1000 also includes a structure 1020 shaped to actuate lever 1015 when cocktail table 140 moves into or out of intersection area 620. In this embodiment, structure 1020 includes a CAM structure. Structure 1020 includes a protruding area in safety areas 610 and 630 (operable to move lever 1015 to the closed position 1017) and a non-protruding area in intersection area 620 (operable to move lever 1015 to the open position 1016). Therefore, the output of switch 1010 depends on whether cocktail table 140 is located in intersection area 620. The output of switch 1010 is received by controller 210. If an indication is received that cocktail table 140 is located in cross area 620, controller 210 prevents electromechanical movement of table 130.

[0072] Although this disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure applies to many different variations not specifically described herein. Some possible variations will now be described by way of example only.

[0073] In the example above, the furniture is slidably mounted to the console. In other examples, the furniture can move relative to the console in different ways. For example, the furniture can be pivotally moved relative to the console. In some examples, the furniture is not mounted to the console. For example, the furniture can be movably mounted to the outer shell structure of an aircraft passenger suite. In this case, the furniture path may still intersect with the table path.

[0074] In the example described above, the console includes a side console for the suite. In other examples, the console includes a front console for the suite (i.e., it may be located in front of the seats).

[0075] In some examples, the furniture paths and table paths are either substantially parallel or at an angle to each other.

[0076] In some examples, when the table is in the first position, it is essentially not stowed within the console. For instance, the table could be stowed outside the console by being moved to rest flat against the outer surface of the console.

[0077] In some examples, if the controller receives an indication that there is an obstacle in the table's path, it provides an alarm in addition to a visual alarm. For example, the controller can be configured to provide an audio alarm. In some examples, no alarm is provided.

[0078] By sensing obstacles other than furniture along the table's path, the electromechanical movement of the table can be prevented. For example, such obstacles could include parts of a passenger's body, luggage, or personal belongings.

[0079] In the foregoing description, references have been made to elements or components having known, obvious, or foreseeable equivalents, which are incorporated herein as if set forth separately. The true scope of this disclosure should be determined with reference to the claims, and this disclosure should be construed as encompassing any such equivalents. The reader should also recognize that elements or features of this disclosure described as preferred, advantageous, convenient, etc., are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that while these optional elements or features may be advantageous in some embodiments of this disclosure, they may not be desirable and therefore may not be present in other embodiments.

[0080] It should be noted that throughout the instruction manual, "or" should be interpreted as "and / or".

Claims

1. An aircraft passenger suite, comprising: Console; A table movably mounted to the console, the table being movable along a table path relative to the console between a first position and a second position; A controller for controlling the electromechanical movement of the table along a table path, the controller including an initiation input for receiving an instruction to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table; as well as A sensing device for sensing whether any obstacle exists on the table path and providing the controller with an indication of whether any obstacle exists on the table path; The controller is configured to prevent the table from electromechanically moving along the table path if it receives an indication that there is an obstacle in the table path. The sensing device is configured to detect the presence of any obstacle in the path of the table without requiring contact between the table and the obstacle.

2. The aircraft passenger suite according to claim 1, wherein, The suite also includes furniture that can move along a furniture path between the first position and the second position, wherein, in the intersection area of ​​the furniture path, the furniture path intersects with the table path.

3. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, The furniture and appliances can be movably installed onto the control console.

4. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 3, wherein, The furniture and appliances can be slidably mounted onto the console.

5. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, At the point where the furniture path intersects with the table path, the furniture path is perpendicular to the table path.

6. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, The furniture includes a second table.

7. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, The sensing device is partially mounted on the control panel and partially mounted on the furniture.

8. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, The sensing device includes a Hall effect sensor and a magnet.

9. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, The sensing device includes a rotation sensor, a cable reel connected to the rotation sensor, and a cable wound on the cable reel such that movement of the furniture relative to the console causes the cable reel to rotate.

10. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 2, wherein, The sensing device includes a quick-acting switch, which includes a mechanical lever and a structure configured to actuate the mechanical lever when furniture or other items are moved into or out of an intersection area.

11. The aircraft passenger suite as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, When the table is in the first position, the table is stored inside the console.

12. The aircraft passenger suite as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The controller is configured as follows: Receive instructions to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table; The electromechanical movement of the table is initiated in response to the received instruction; After initiating the electromechanical movement of the table, an indication is received as to whether there is an obstacle in the table's path; as well as In response to a received indication that an obstacle exists in the path of the table, the electromechanical movement of the table is stopped.

13. The aircraft passenger suite as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The controller is configured to: Receive an indication from the sensing device that an obstacle exists in the path of the table; Receive instructions to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table; and Prevent the electromechanical movement of the table.

14. The aircraft passenger suite according to claim 12, wherein, The controller is configured to: Receive a subsequent second indication from the sensing device that there are no obstacles on the table path; and In response to the second instruction, the electromechanical movement of the table along the table path is initiated.

15. The aircraft passenger suite as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein, The controller is configured to provide an alarm if it receives an indication that there is an obstacle in the path of the table.

16. The aircraft passenger suite as described in claim 15, wherein, The controller is configured to provide a visual alarm displayed on or near the furniture.

17. A method for controlling the electromechanical movement of a table in an aircraft passenger suite, the table being movably mounted to a control console and capable of moving along a table path relative to the control console between a first position and a second position, the method comprising: Receive instructions to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table; Receive an indication from the sensing device as to whether there is an obstacle in the path of the table; as well as If an indication is received that there is an obstacle in the path of the table, then the electromechanical movement of the table is prevented; Specifically, the electromechanical movement of the table is prevented before the table comes into contact with the obstacle.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the method comprises: In response to the received instruction, the electromechanical movement of the table is initiated; After initiating the electromechanical movement of the table, an indication is received as to whether there is an obstacle in the table's path; as well as In response to a received indication that an obstacle exists in the path of the table, the electromechanical movement of the table is stopped.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the method comprises, in the following order: Receive an indication from the sensing device that an obstacle exists in the path of the table; Receive instructions to initiate the electromechanical movement of the table; and Prevent the table from moving mechanically.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, the method comprising: Receive indications from the sensing device regarding the presence of obstacles in the path of the table; as well as In response to a received indication that there are no obstacles on the table path, the electromechanical movement of the table along the table path is initiated.

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