Luggage rack lighting assembly and method for illuminating a luggage rack assembly of a vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a luggage rack lighting assembly and a method for illuminating a luggage rack assembly of a vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly for mounting to an interior cabin of a vehicle includes a chassis having a plate extending longitudinally between end portions. The chassis supports a light mounting base, a wire holder, and at least one drape support above an upper surface. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light mounted to the light mounting base positioned above the plate by the light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire electrically connected to the light to provide power to the light and coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control a position of the wire relative to the plate. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a drape coupled to the drape mounting base configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Examples of the present disclosure generally relate to lighting for overhead luggage rack assemblies of interior cabins of aircraft. BACKGROUND

[0002] Vehicles, such as commercial aircraft, are used to transport passengers between various locations. Luggage rack assemblies are provided within the interior cabin of a commercial aircraft overhead above passenger seats in the aircraft. Typically, lights are provided above the luggage rack assemblies to provide spot and area lighting within the cabin of the aircraft. There is a trend in aircraft lighting towards more complex lighting architectures for enhanced ambient lighting and other lighting effects. For example, lighting architectures in aircraft include increased complexity of light quantity and light layout with additional lighting controllers, precise integration and aiming requirements, and limited space for packaging components. However, installation and maintenance of the lights and wiring in the aircraft is time consuming due to space limitations above the luggage rack assemblies. In addition, there is a trend of increased scrutiny by regulatory agencies of electrical wiring to ensure safe and trouble-free operation of the lighting and wiring systems during the life of the aircraft. The space limitations and location of the lighting and wiring above the luggage rack assemblies make it difficult to inspect the lights and wiring.

[0003] The wiring and lights are typically hidden behind a valance that provides a decorative cover for the lighting and wiring components. Attachment of the valance can be difficult. In addition, it can be difficult to inspect the valance attachment components during installation due to limited space and coverage of the valance over the visible space. SUMMARY

[0004] Certain examples herein provide a luggage rack lighting assembly for installation to an interior cabin of a vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a chassis including a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and configured to be installed to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin. The chassis supports a light mounting base and a wire holder. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light assembly removably coupled to the chassis. The light assembly includes a light and a wire electrically connected to the light. The light is coupled to the light mounting base for providing lighting from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The wire provides power and / or data to the light and is coupled to at least one of the wire holders to control the position of the wire.

[0005] In at least one example, the light and the wire of the luggage rack lighting assembly are pre-assembled to the chassis prior to installation of the chassis to the luggage rack assembly.

[0006] In at least one example, the lamp mounting bases of the luggage rack lighting assembly provide multiple attachment points for the lamps, and the plate maintains the spacing of the lamp mounting bases relative to one another. In various examples, each lamp mounting base includes an alignment mounting feature that supports a portion of a lamp. The alignment mounting features can be offset relative to one another and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle. The alignment mounting features of the lamp mounting bases can define a longitudinal mounting axis that is laterally tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis. The lamps are held along the longitudinal mounting axis. The height of each alignment mounting feature can be different than the height of at least one other alignment mounting feature to cause the longitudinal mounting axis to be perpendicularly tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis. Each alignment mounting feature can include an angled mounting surface that is formed at an angle relative to an upper surface of the plate. The angled mounting surface can be formed at a different angle relative to at least one other angled mounting surface. All of the angled mounting surfaces define the longitudinal mounting axis. In various examples, the lamp mounting bases have different heights to position the lamps at different distances from the upper surface of the plate.

[0007] In at least one example, the plate of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes a step feature configured to span a gap from the luggage rack assembly to an adjacent luggage rack assembly.

[0008] In at least one example, the chassis of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire guide boss extending from an upper surface of the plate that supports a wire guide on the chassis for controlling routing of the wire between the lamps and the wire holder.

[0009] In at least one example, the wire is wrapped around at least two of the wire holders.

[0010] In at least one example, the chassis of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire disconnect mounting bracket. The wire has a wire disconnect at one end of the wire that is coupled to the wire disconnect mounting bracket to position the wire disconnect relative to the chassis.

[0011] In at least one example, the lamp is a first lamp. The lamp assembly further includes a second lamp mounted to a corresponding lamp mounting base. The lamp mounting base positions the first lamp adjacent to the second lamp on the chassis. The first lamp extends along a first axis, and the second lamp extends along a second axis. The lamp mounting base can hold the first lamp and the second lamp with the first axis coincident with the second axis.

[0012] In at least one example, the lamp mounting base is integral with the plate.

[0013] In at least one example, a luggage rack lighting assembly includes a chassis. The chassis includes a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The plate has an upper surface and a lower surface. The chassis supports a light mounting base above the upper surface. The chassis supports a wire holder above the upper surface. The chassis supports at least one drape support above the upper surface. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light mounted to the light mounting base. The light is positioned above the plate by the light mounting base for providing illumination from a luggage rack assembly to an interior cabin of a vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire electrically connected to the light to provide power to the light. The wire is coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control a position of the wire relative to the plate. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a drape coupled to the drape mounting base. The drape is configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

[0014] Certain examples provide a luggage rack lighting assembly for mounting to an interior cabin of a vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a chassis. The chassis includes a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The plate has an upper surface and a lower surface configured to mount to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin. The chassis supports a light mounting base above the upper surface. The chassis supports a wire holder above the upper surface. The chassis supports at least one drape support above the upper surface. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light mounted to the light mounting base. The light is positioned above the plate by the light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire electrically connected to the light to provide power to the light. The wire is coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control a position of the wire relative to the plate. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a drape coupled to the drape mounting base. The drape is configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

[0015] Certain examples provide a vehicle having an interior cabin having a ceiling, a plurality of luggage rack assemblies within the interior cabin each having an upper portion facing the ceiling, and a plurality of luggage rack lighting assemblies coupled to the luggage rack assemblies at the upper portions of the corresponding luggage rack assemblies. Each luggage rack lighting assembly includes a chassis including a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The chassis is mounted to the corresponding luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin. The chassis supports a light mounting base and a wire support. Each luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light assembly removably coupled to the chassis. The light assembly includes a light and a wire electrically connected to the light. The light is coupled to the light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The wire provides power and / or data to the light. The wire is coupled to at least one of the wire supports to control the position of the wire.

[0016] Certain examples provide a vehicle including an interior cabin having a ceiling, a luggage rack assembly within the interior cabin, and a luggage rack lighting assembly. The luggage rack assembly has an upper portion facing the ceiling and a pocket formed between the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly and the ceiling. The luggage rack lighting assembly is housed in the pocket. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes an upper light assembly, a lower light assembly, and a drape coupled between the upper light assembly and the lower light assembly. The upper light assembly includes an upper chassis coupled to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly. The upper chassis includes an upper plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The upper chassis supports an upper light mounting base above the upper plate. The upper light assembly includes an upper light mounted to the upper light mounting base. The upper chassis supports an upper drape latch above the upper chassis. The lower light assembly includes a lower chassis coupled to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly independently of the upper chassis. The lower chassis includes a lower plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The lower chassis supports a lower light mounting base above the lower plate. The lower light assembly includes a lower light mounted to the lower light mounting base. The lower chassis supports a lower drape support above the lower chassis. The drape is coupled to the lower drape support and to the upper drape latch to control the position of the drape relative to the luggage rack assembly.

[0017] Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a method of lighting a luggage rack assembly in an interior cabin of an aircraft. The method includes the steps of coupling a light to a plurality of light mounting bases extending from a chassis at a location outside the interior cabin, coupling a wire extending from the light to a plurality of wire supports extending from the chassis at the location outside the interior cabin, and mounting the chassis to an upper portion of the luggage rack assembly inside the interior cabin to position the light and the wire above the luggage rack assembly.

[0018] In at least one example, the method includes the step of installing the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly such that the light tapers along a longitudinal mounting axis that is transverse relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the interior cabin.

[0019] In at least one example, the method includes the steps of detaching the chassis with the light and wire installed to the chassis from the luggage rack assembly; removing the chassis with the light and wire installed to the chassis from the interior cabin; replacing the light and wire on the chassis; and installing the chassis with the replaced light and wire to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly within the interior cabin to position the light and wire above the luggage rack assembly.

[0020] In at least one example, the method includes the steps of coupling at least one drape support to the chassis at a location outside the interior cabin and coupling a drape to the at least one drape support to secure the drape to the luggage rack assembly and cover the cavity. The at least one drape support can include a drape latch and the drape can include a cam surface. The step of coupling the drape to the at least one drape support includes engaging the cam surface with a guide roller to guide the drape into cooperation with the drape latch.

[0021] In at least one example, the step of installing the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly includes installing the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly such that the light is held along a longitudinal mounting axis that tapers transverse to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the interior cabin. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 A perspective front view of an aircraft 110 is shown.

[0023] Figure 2A A top plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft is shown.

[0024] Figure 2B A top plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft is shown.

[0025] Figure 3 An interior perspective view of an interior cabin of an aircraft is shown.

[0026] Figure 4 is an interior view of an interior cabin of an aircraft.

[0027] Figure 5 A portion of a luggage rack lighting assembly coupled to a luggage rack assembly is shown.

[0028] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a portion of a luggage rack lighting assembly ready for installation to a luggage rack assembly.

[0029] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of an upper chassis.

[0030] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the upper light assembly.

[0031] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the upper light assembly.

[0032] Figure 10 is a top perspective view of the lower chassis.

[0033] Figure 11 is an exploded view of the lower light assembly.

[0034] Figure 12 is an exploded view of the lower light assembly.

[0035] Figure 13 is a top view of the lower light assembly.

[0036] Figure 14 is Figure 11 is a top view of a portion of the lower light assembly shown.

[0037] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the curtain.

[0038] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a portion of an aircraft showing a luggage rack lighting assembly coupled to a corresponding luggage rack assembly.

[0039] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a portion of an aircraft showing one of a curtain and a luggage rack lighting assembly coupled to a corresponding luggage rack assembly.

[0040] Figure 18 is a side perspective view of a portion of an aircraft showing one of a curtain and a luggage rack lighting assembly coupled to a corresponding luggage rack assembly.

[0041] Figure 19 is a side perspective view of a portion of an aircraft showing one of a curtain and a luggage rack lighting assembly coupled to a corresponding luggage rack assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The foregoing summary, as well as certain examples, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. Furthermore, references to "one example" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding additional or alternate examples that can also satisfy the conditions of the feature being described. Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, examples using terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to include additional elements or steps. Various aspects of the application are described in further detail in the following.

[0043] As described herein, examples of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for installing lighting components and drapes within an interior cabin of an aircraft. Specifically, the lighting components can be pre-assembled prior to installation into a luggage rack assembly in an aircraft. Further, in at least one example, installation hardware, lights, wires, wire disconnects, etc. can be pre-assembled onto a chassis prior to loading the chassis into a space above the luggage rack assembly. Thus, examples of the present disclosure allow for proper positioning of components relative to one another and inspection of the components prior to loading into an aircraft. Further, once the chassis and installation hardware are coupled to the luggage rack assembly, the drapes can be installed.

[0044] Figure 1 A perspective front view of an aircraft 110 is shown in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The aircraft 110 includes a propulsion system 112, which for example includes engines 114. Optionally, the propulsion system 112 can include more engines 114 than shown. The engines 114 are carried by wings 116 of the aircraft 110. In other examples, the engines 114 can be carried by a fuselage 118 and / or a tail 120. The tail 120 can also support a horizontal stabilizer 122 and a vertical stabilizer 124.

[0045] The fuselage 118 of the aircraft 110 defines an interior cabin 130, which includes a cockpit or flight deck, one or more work sections (e.g., a galley, a crew rest area, etc.), one or more passenger sections (e.g., first class, business class, and economy class sections), one or more lavatories, etc. The interior cabin 130 includes luggage rack assemblies, such as in the passenger sections. Lighting is provided in the interior cabin 130, such as above the luggage rack assemblies.

[0046] Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, examples of the present disclosure can be used in various other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and trains, watercraft, etc. Further, examples of the present disclosure can be used with respect to fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

[0047] Figure 2A A top plan view of an interior cabin 230 of an aircraft is shown in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 230 is Figure 1An example of an interior compartment 130. The interior compartment 230 is located within the fuselage 220 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls 222 may define the interior compartment 230. The fuselage 220 extends along a longitudinal fuselage axis 224. The longitudinal fuselage plane is defined as a vertical plane extending through the longitudinal fuselage axis 224. Portions of the walls may extend parallel to the longitudinal fuselage axis 224. In various examples, portions of the fuselage may have a non-constant cross-section. For example, portions of the fuselage wall 222 may taper inward and / or downward transversely to the longitudinal fuselage axis 224, such as near the front and rear of the aircraft. In the example shown, the non-constant cross-section of the aircraft is located at the front. For example, the fuselage wall 222 may taper inward at approximately 3° along at least a portion of the length of the aircraft. Components such as overhead bins, lighting systems, and curtains similarly taper to follow the taper of the fuselage wall 222.

[0048] Interior cabin 230 includes multiple areas, 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. It should be understood that interior cabin 230 may include more or fewer areas than shown. For example, interior cabin 230 may not include a first-class section and may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each of the sections may be separated by a cabin transition area 246, which may include cabin class partition components between aisles.

[0049] like Figure 2A As shown, interior compartment 230 includes two passageways 250 and 252 leading to aft section 244. Alternatively, interior compartment 230 may have fewer or more passageways than shown. For example, interior compartment 230 may include a single passageway extending through the center of interior compartment 230 leading to aft section 244.

[0050] Overhead luggage rack assemblies (not shown) may be installed within the interior compartment 230. For example, an overhead luggage rack assembly may be installed above passenger seats 232 in the passenger section of the aircraft. Outer overhead luggage rack assemblies may be installed above passenger seats 232 along the fuselage wall 222 of the interior compartment 230. Center overhead luggage rack assemblies may be installed above passenger seats 232 along the central section of the interior compartment 230 (e.g., immediately adjacent to the longitudinal fuselage axis 224).

[0051] Figure 2B A top plan view of an interior compartment 280 of an aircraft according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Interior compartment 280 is... Figure 1An example of an interior cabin 130 is shown. The interior cabin 280 can be within a fuselage 270 of an aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls 272 extend along a longitudinal fuselage axis 274. The fuselage walls 272 define the interior cabin 280. The interior cabin 280 includes multiple zones, including a main cabin 282 having passenger seats and an aft section 285 behind the main cabin 282. It should be appreciated that the interior cabin 280 can include more or fewer zones than shown.

[0052] The interior cabin 280 can include a single aisle 284 leading to the aft section 285. The single aisle 284 can extend through a center of the interior cabin 280 leading to the aft section 285. For example, the single aisle 284 can be coaxially aligned with a central longitudinal plane of the interior cabin 280.

[0053] Luggage rack assemblies (not shown) can be provided within the interior cabin 280. For example, the luggage rack assemblies can be provided above the passenger seats in the passenger section of the aircraft. Outboard luggage rack assemblies can be provided above the passenger seats along the outboard sides of the interior cabin 280.

[0054] Figure 3 An interior perspective view of an interior cabin 300 of an aircraft is shown in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 300 is Figure 1 An example of an interior cabin 130 is shown. The interior cabin 300 includes an outboard wall 302 connected to a ceiling 304. Windows 306 can be formed within the outboard wall 302. A floor 308 supports multiple rows of seats 310. As Figure 3 As shown, a row 312 can include three seats 310 on either side of an aisle 313. However, a row 312 can include more or fewer seats 310 than shown. In addition, the interior cabin 300 can include more aisles than shown.

[0055] Overhead luggage rack assemblies 320 are generally secured to the ceiling 304 and / or the outer sidewall 302 above the passenger seats 310. In various examples, each luggage rack assembly 320 can include a pivoting bin or basket 322 pivotally secured to a positioning plate (not shown). For example, the overhead luggage rack assemblies 320 are configured to pivot open to accommodate passenger carry-on luggage and personal items. However, in alternative examples, other types of luggage rack assemblies can be used, such as cabinets, shelving bins, hangers, or other examples having various panels without a pivoting bin for storing luggage. The luggage rack assemblies 320 are located on either side of the aisle 313. The overhead luggage rack assemblies 320 extend between the front and rear ends of the interior cabin 300. Lighting assemblies (not shown) are provided above the luggage rack assemblies 320 to provide lighting along the luggage rack assemblies 320 and / or the ceiling 304. The luggage rack assemblies 320 follow the outer sidewall 302 along the interior cabin 300. In various examples, the outer sidewall 302 can taper inwardly and / or downwardly (e.g., following the curvature of the fuselage) at the front of the aircraft. The luggage rack assemblies 320 and lighting taper inwardly and / or downwardly to follow the outer sidewall 302. The luggage rack assemblies 320 and lighting taper to follow the non-constant cross-section of the aircraft.

[0056] As used herein, the term“outboard” means a location further away from the central longitudinal plane 324 of the interior cabin 300 as compared to another component. The term“inboard” means a location closer to the central longitudinal plane 324 of the interior cabin 300 as compared to another component.

[0057] Figure 4 is an interior view of an interior cabin 130 of an aircraft 110 according to examples of the present disclosure. The aircraft 110 includes a plurality of aisles 132. Passenger seats 134 are mounted to a floor 108 of the interior cabin 130. The passenger seats 134 are disposed to each side of the aisle 132, such as along an outer sidewall 102 of a fuselage 118.

[0058] Luggage rack assemblies 140 are disposed along a ceiling 104 of the interior cabin 130. For example, the aircraft 110 includes outboard luggage rack assemblies 140a adjacent the outer sidewall 102 and a central luggage rack assembly 140b adjacent the central longitudinal plane 128. Each luggage rack assembly 140 includes a movable portion 142 movably coupled to a positioning plate 144. For example, the movable portion 142 can include a pivoting bin. In various examples, the luggage rack assemblies 140 can include cabinets, such as PSU cabinets, having various panels without a pivoting bin for storing luggage. Other types of assemblies can be used in alternative examples, such as shelving bins, hangers, or other examples having various panels without a pivoting bin for storing luggage.

[0059] The aircraft 110 includes a luggage rack lighting assembly 150 for illuminating the interior cabin 130, such as the ceiling 104. The luggage rack lighting assembly 150 can provide various lighting effects, such as general illumination, enhanced mood lighting, and other lighting effects. The luggage rack lighting assembly 150 is coupled to the luggage rack assembly 140. For example, the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 can be coupled to the upper portion 146 of the luggage rack assembly 140. The luggage rack lighting assembly 150 is located in the cavity 148 between the upper portion 146 and the ceiling 104. In an example embodiment, the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 includes a light 160 for illuminating the interior cabin 130, such as the ceiling 104. In an example embodiment, a drape 180 is used to conceal or cover components of the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 in the cavity 148. The drape 180 is located above the corresponding luggage rack assembly 140, such as adjacent to the ceiling 104. The drape 180 can transition between the luggage rack assembly 140 and the ceiling 104.

[0060] Figure 5 A portion of the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 coupled to the luggage rack assembly 140 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 An exploded view of a portion of the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 ready for installation to the luggage rack assembly 140 according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0061] In various examples, the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 includes multiple light assemblies associated with the luggage rack assembly 140 to provide illumination in different directions or for illuminating different areas of the interior cabin 130 (shown in Figure 4 In other various examples, the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 includes a single light assembly associated with the luggage rack assembly 140. In yet another example, one or more light assemblies can be used to provide illumination for multiple luggage rack assemblies 140.

[0062] In the illustrated example, the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 includes an upper light assembly 400 and a lower light assembly 500. The upper light assembly 400 and the lower light assembly 500 are configured to be separately installed to the luggage rack assembly 140, such as at different locations along the upper portion 146 of the luggage rack assembly 140. The upper light assembly 400 and the lower light assembly 500 are used to illuminate different portions of the luggage rack assembly 140 and / or different portions of the ceiling of the aircraft 110. The upper light assembly 400 and the lower light assembly 500 can include similar components, which can be referred to herein specifically with the “upper” and “lower” designators or can be referred to herein generally with the “upper” and “lower” designators. In an example embodiment, the upper light assembly 400 and the lower light assembly 500 are configured to support a drape 180 (shown in Figure 4

[0063] ​In an example embodiment, the overhead compartment lighting assembly 150 includes an upper chassis 402 for supporting the upper light assembly 400 and a lower chassis 502 for supporting the lower light assembly 500. The upper chassis 402 and the lower chassis 502 are each configured to be mounted directly to the upper portion 146 of the overhead compartment assembly 140. The upper light assembly 400 includes an upper light 404 and one or more upper wires 406 extending from the upper light 404. In an example embodiment, the upper light 404 and the upper wires 406 are pre-assembled to the upper chassis 402 prior to mounting the upper chassis 402 to the overhead compartment assembly 140. The lower light assembly 500 includes a lower light 504 and one or more lower wires 506 extending from the lower light 504. In an example embodiment, the lower light 504 and the lower wires 506 are pre-assembled to the lower chassis 502 prior to mounting the lower chassis 502 to the overhead compartment assembly 140. In an example embodiment, the assembly can occur outside of the aircraft 110, such as on an assembly table where assembly can more easily occur. For example, the lighting and wiring can be assembled to the chassis 402, 502 in a controlled environment with ample space around the chassis 402, 502 to access the components and complete the assembly. Inspection of the lighting and wiring can occur outside of the aircraft 110 prior to mounting the chassis 402, 502 with the lights 404, 504 and wires 406, 506 to the overhead compartment assembly 140, respectively. Thus, assembly time inside the aircraft 110 can be reduced, and thus, downtime of the aircraft 110 can be reduced. The wiring is inspected and confirmed to meet electrical wiring requirements (e.g., positioning, bend radius, proximity to other components) prior to mounting to the overhead compartment assembly 140. The lights 404, 504 and wires 406, 506 are removably coupled to the chassis 402, 502, such as for service or replacement.

[0064] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of an upper chassis 402 according to an example embodiment. The chassis 402 includes an upper plate 410 configured to be mounted to the overhead compartment assembly 140 (shown in Figure 5 FIG. 1) and configured to support components of the upper light assembly 400. For example, the plate 410 includes an upper surface 412 for supporting components and a lower surface 414 configured to be mounted directly to the overhead compartment assembly 140.

[0065] In an example embodiment, the plate 410 is made of a metal material, such as aluminum. The plate 410 can be machined from a block or sheet of metal. These features and mounting locations can be precisely controlled through the machining process. In other examples, the plate 410 can be die cast. In alternative examples, the plate 410 is made of a plastic material. For example, the plate 410 can be molded from a plastic material. The plate 410 is manufactured to have particular dimensions and features for supporting and precisely positioning components of the upper light assembly 400 relative to each other and to the overhead compartment assembly 140.

[0066] In various examples, the plate 410 is generally planar and extends along a longitudinal plate axis 415 between a first end 416 and a second end 418. The plate 410 has a first side 420 and a second side 422. The first side 420 can define a front side of the plate 410 and the second side 422 can define a back side of the plate 410. In various examples, the plate 410 can include one or more steps 424 to change a height of the plate 410 along a length of the plate 410. For example, the steps 424 can be used to transition over a portion of the luggage rack assembly 140 or transition across adjacent luggage rack assemblies 140.

[0067] The plate 410 includes cutouts 426 through the plate 410, such as to reduce a weight of the plate 410 or accommodate features of the luggage rack assembly 140. The cutouts 426 can be internal, such as along a central longitudinal axis of the plate 410, or can be external, such as along the first side 420 and / or the second side 422.

[0068] The plate 410 includes mounting openings 428 to accommodate fasteners (not shown) for securing the plate 410 to the luggage rack assembly 140. Other types of securing features can be used in alternative examples, such as latches, clips, or other securing features. Optionally, a nut plate (not shown) can be coupled to the plate 410 at the mounting openings 428. The nut plate is configured to accommodate threaded fasteners to secure the plate 410 to the luggage rack assembly 140. For example, the nut plate can accommodate threaded end portions of assembled fasteners from below, such as from an interior of the luggage rack assembly 140, rather than requiring assembly of the fasteners from above the floor pan 402.

[0069] In an example example, the floor pan 402 includes a light mounting base 430 extending from the upper surface 412 of the plate 410. The light mounting base 430 is used to support the lights 404 of the upper light assembly 400 Figure 5 and Figure 6The lamp mounting bases 430 are spaced apart along the plate 410. The plate 410 maintains the relative spacing of the lamp mounting bases 430. In various examples, the lamp mounting bases 430 can be located at the second side 422 (e.g., the back side); however, in alternative examples, other locations are possible, such as at the first side 420 or centered between the first side 420 and the second side 422. In the illustrated example, the lamp mounting bases 430 extend from protrusions 431 that extend from the second side 422 to position the lamp mounting bases 430 outside of the footprint of the plate 410. In an example example, the chassis 402 includes a plurality of lamp mounting bases 430 sufficient to support the lamps 404. In other words, a separate chassis 402 is not needed to support the lamps 404. Rather, the chassis 402 supports the entire length of the lamps 404. In various examples, the chassis 402 can support a plurality of lamps 404.

[0070] Each lamp mounting base 430 extends from the plate 410 to a distal end 432. The lamp mounting base 430 includes an alignment mounting feature 434 configured to support a portion of the lamp 404. The alignment mounting feature 434 can include an opening 436, such as a threaded opening, to receive a fastener to secure the lamp 404 to the alignment mounting feature 434. In an example, the alignment mounting feature 434 is disposed at the distal end 432. The alignment mounting feature 434 defines an attachment point for the lamp 404. In various examples, the alignment mounting feature 434 is defined by a flat surface at the distal end 432. The flat surface can be parallel to the plate 410. Alternatively, the flat surface can be angled non-parallel to the plate 410. For example, the flat surface can be edge-to-edge angled and / or end-to-end angled. The angle of the alignment mounting feature 434 controls the orientation of the lamp 404 relative to the plate 410. For example, depending on the angle of the alignment mounting feature 434, the lamp 404 can be held parallel to the plate 410 or can be held non-parallel to the plate 410. Thus, the alignment mounting feature 434 controls the lighting effect of the lamp 404, such as the angle of illumination.

[0071] In an exemplary example, the position and orientation of the lamp mounting bases 430 relative to each other are maintained by a plate 410. The plate 410 spaces the lamp mounting bases 430 at a predetermined interval to support the lamp 404 along its length. The height of the lamp mounting bases 430 is selected to control the vertical spacing of the lamp 404 relative to the plate 410. In various examples, the heights of the lamp mounting bases 430 may differ from each other, such as to offset the alignment mounting features 434 relative to the plate 410 at different heights. The angle of the alignment mounting features 434 is selected to control the tilt angle orientation of the lamp 404 relative to the plate 410. In various examples, the tilt angle of one or more of the alignment mounting features 434 may differ from the tilt angle of at least one other alignment mounting feature 434.

[0072] Alignment mounting features 434 are positioned relative to each other to define a longitudinal mounting axis 438. In various examples, the lamp mounting bases 430 can be selected for edge-to-edge positioning to control the orientation of the longitudinal mounting axis 438 relative to the longitudinal plate axis 415, and thus control the position of the lamp 404 relative to the plate 410. In various examples, the lamp mounting bases 430 can be aligned with each other such that the longitudinal mounting axis 438 is parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 415, and thus orients the lamp 404 parallel to the plate 410. In alternative examples, the lamp mounting bases 430 can be offset from each other such that the longitudinal mounting axis 438 is not parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 415, and thus orients the lamp 404 not parallel to the plate 410.

[0073] The chassis 402 includes a plurality of wire supports 440 extending from the upper surface 412 of the plate 410. The wire supports 440 are used to position wires 406 relative to the plate 410. Figure 5 and Figure 6 (As shown in the diagram). In various examples, the wire support 440 is spaced apart from and separate from the plate 410, and is secured to the plate, for example, using fasteners. In alternative examples, the wire support 440 is integral with the plate 410. In the example, the wire support 440 is positioned immediately adjacent to the first end 416. The wire supports 440 are spaced apart from each other along the length of the plate 410. The wire supports 440 are located at designated positions to route the wire 406 along the plate 410 along a designated path.

[0074] In the example, each wire holder 440 includes a post 442 and a hub 444 extending from the post 442. The post 442 extends from the upper surface 412 of the plate 410. The hub 444 is located at or near the distal end of the post 442. The hub 444 is spaced apart from the plate 410 to form a space 446 between the hub 444 and the plate 410. The space 446 may accommodate a portion of the wire 406. In an exemplary example, the hub 444 includes an opening 448 for accommodating a securing device, such as a cable tie, clip, or other securing device, to secure the wire 406 to the wire holder 440.

[0075] The chassis 402 includes one or more wire break installation mounts 450. The wire break installation mounts 450 are used to install a wire break at an end of the wire 406 to the board 410 at a designated area. In an example example, the wire break installation mounts 450 include pads 452 having a plurality of openings 454. The openings 454 accommodate fasteners, such as threaded fasteners, rivets, snap hooks, etc., to secure the wire break to the wire break installation mounts 450.

[0076] The chassis 402 includes wire guide bosses 460 extending from the upper surface 412 of the board 410. The wire guide bosses 460 are used to support wire guides used to route the wire 406 along the chassis 402. In an example, the wire guide bosses 460 are integral with the board 410. Alternatively, the wire guide bosses 460 can be spaced apart and separate from the board 410 and coupled to the board, such as using fasteners. In an example, the wire guide bosses 460 are positioned proximate the second end 418; however, other locations are possible in alternative examples. The wire guide bosses 460 are used to lift the wire guides off of the board 410.

[0077] The chassis 402 includes a plurality of drape supports 468 used to support the drape 180 (shown in Figure 4 ). In the example shown, each drape support 468 includes a drape installation pedestal 470 and a drape latch 480 (shown in Figure 8 ) configured to be installed onto the drape installation pedestal 470. Other types of support features can be used to support the drape 180 in alternative examples.

[0078] The drape installation pedestals 470 extend from the upper surface 412 of the board 410. In an example example, the drape installation pedestals 470 are integral with the board 410. For example, the drape installation pedestals 470 can be die cast with the board 410 or machined from a block of metal with the board 410. In other examples, the drape installation pedestals 470 are spaced apart and separate from the board 410 and coupled to the board 410, such as using fasteners. The drape installation pedestals 470 are spaced apart along the board 410. The board 410 maintains the relative spacing of the drape installation pedestals 470. In various examples, the drape installation pedestals 470 can be located on the second side 422 (e.g., the back side); however, other locations are possible in alternative examples.

[0079] Each drape mounting base 470 extends from the plate 410 to a distal end 472. The drape mounting base 470 includes an alignment mounting feature 474 configured to support a corresponding drape latch 480. The alignment mounting feature 474 can include an opening 476, such as a threaded opening, for receiving a fastener to secure the drape latch 480 to the alignment mounting feature 474. In examples, the alignment mounting feature 474 is disposed at the distal end 472. The alignment mounting feature 474 defines an attachment point for the drape latch 480. In various examples, the alignment mounting feature 474 is defined by a planar surface at the distal end 472. The planar surface can be parallel to the plate 410. Alternatively, the planar surface can be angled non-parallel to the plate 410. For example, the planar surface can be edge-to-edge tilted and / or end-to-end tilted. The angle of the alignment mounting feature 474 relative to the plate 410 controls the orientation of the drape latch 480, and thus the drape 180, relative to the plate 410. For example, depending on the angle of the alignment mounting feature 474, the drape 180 can be held parallel to the plate 410 or can be held non-parallel to the plate 410.

[0080] In example examples, the position and orientation of the drape mounting bases 470 relative to one another is maintained by the plate 410. The plate 410 spaces the drape mounting bases 470 at a predetermined spacing to support the drape 180 along the length of the drape 180. The height of the drape mounting bases 470 is selected to control the vertical spacing of the drape latches 480 relative to the plate 410. In various examples, the height of the drape mounting bases 470 can differ from one another, such as to offset the alignment mounting features 474 at different heights relative to the plate 410. The angle of the alignment mounting features 474 is selected to control the angular orientation of the drape latches 480 relative to the plate 410. In various examples, the angular tilt of one or more of the alignment mounting features 474 can differ from the angular tilt of at least one other alignment mounting feature 474.

[0081] The alignment mounting features 474 are positioned relative to one another to define a longitudinal mounting axis 478. In various examples, the edge-to-edge positioning of the drape mounting bases 470 can be selected to control the orientation of the longitudinal mounting axis 478 relative to the longitudinal plate axis 415, and thus the position of the drape 180 relative to the plate 410. In various examples, the drape mounting bases 470 can be aligned with one another such that the longitudinal mounting axis 478 is parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 415, and thus the drape 180 is oriented parallel to the plate 410. In alternative examples, the drape mounting bases 470 can be offset from one another such that the longitudinal mounting axis 478 is non-parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 415, and thus the drape 180 is oriented non-parallel to the plate 410.

[0082] Figure 8is an exploded view of the upper light assembly 400 according to an example. The upper light assembly 400 includes an upper chassis 402, upper lights 404, upper wires 406, a curtain latch 480, and one or more wire guides 462. The upper chassis 402 combines many structures into a unitary structure, which reduces part counts and reduces the number of components that need to be installed into the rack assembly 140, which reduces assembly labor time. The upper chassis 402 precisely controls the position of the upper lights 404 and the upper wires 406 to facilitate installation and assembly into the rack assembly 140. The components of the upper light assembly 400 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation into the rack assembly 140. For example, the upper light assembly 400 can be pre-assembled outside of the aircraft 110, such as on an assembly table where the components are easily accessible for proper and quick assembly. The assembly unit can be inspected outside of the aircraft prior to installation into the rack assembly 140, such as to ensure that the lights 404 are properly installed to the chassis 402 and that the wires 406 are properly routed and secured to the chassis 402. The pre-assembly and work performed outside of the aircraft eliminates the need for electricians to work in tight spaces in the aircraft and to long-term occupy the aisle of the aircraft interior, thereby reducing the downtime of the aircraft for installation and maintenance.

[0083] During assembly, the curtain latches 480 are secured to the curtain mounting base 470, such as using fasteners. In an example, each curtain latch 480 includes a base 482 configured to be mounted to the curtain mounting base 470 and a latch element 484 extending from the base 482. The latch element 484 includes a slot 486 and a latch finger 488 configured to engage the curtain 180 to latchably secure the curtain 180 to the upper light assembly 400. Other types of latch elements can be used in alternative examples. The position and orientation of the curtain latches 480 is controlled by the curtain mounting base 470. For example, the position of the curtain mounting base 470 along the plate 410 and the angle of the alignment feature 474 control the position and orientation of the curtain latches 480.

[0084] In an example, the upper light assembly 400 includes a plurality of lights 404, such as a first light and a second light. Each light 404 includes a housing 600 that holds a lighting element or light 602 and a lens 604. In an example, the lighting element 602 is an LED; however, other types of lighting elements can be used in other examples, such as fluorescent tubes. The lens 604 is positioned in front of the light 404 and controls the lighting effect. Light from the lighting element 602 is emitted through the lens 604. The light 404 extends along a longitudinal light axis 606.

[0085] The lights 404 are mounted to corresponding light mounting pedestals 430 of the chassis 402. In an example example, each light 404 is supported by multiple light mounting pedestals 430. For example, the light mounting pedestals 430 can be disposed near the ends of the lights 404 and / or along other portions of the lights 404, such as a central portion of the lights 404. Optionally, one light mounting pedestal 430 can be a double pedestal configured to support the ends of two lights 404. For example, the double pedestal can have a greater width than other light mounting pedestals 430. The lights 404 are mounted to the aligned mounting features 434 of the light mounting pedestals 430, such as using fasteners. The chassis 402 defines an intermediate structure between the lights 404 and the rack assembly 140. The light mounting pedestals 430 are not directly mounted to the rack assembly 140, but are part of the chassis 402 and are thus mounted to the rack assembly 140 via the chassis 402. The chassis 402 defines an intermediate structure between the wires 406 and the rack assembly 140. The wire supports 440 are not directly mounted to the rack assembly 140, but are part of the chassis 402 and are thus mounted to the rack assembly 140 via the chassis 402.

[0086] The aligned mounting features 434 control the position and orientation of the lights 404 relative to the chassis 402. The aligned mounting features 434 can be offset relative to one another and relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis 224 of the aircraft (shown in Figure 2A The aligned mounting features 434 of the light mounting pedestals 430 define a longitudinal mounting axis 438. The longitudinal mounting axis 438 can be laterally tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis 224, such as following any curvature or taper of the fuselage. The lights 404 are held along the longitudinal mounting axis 438. Each aligned mounting feature 434 can have a different height than at least one other aligned mounting feature 434 to cause the longitudinal mounting axis 438 to be vertically tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis 224. Each aligned mounting feature 434 can include an angled mounting surface formed at an angle relative to the upper surface 412 of the plate 410. The angled mounting surface can be formed at a different angle relative to at least one other angled mounting surface. All of the angled mounting surfaces define the longitudinal mounting axis 438. In various examples, the light mounting pedestals 430 have different heights to position the lights 404 at different distances from the upper surface 412 of the plate 410.

[0087] In an example, the pair of lights 404 are positioned adjacent to one another such that the light axes 606 are coincident. The light axes 606 can be parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 415. In another example, the light axes 606 can be oriented laterally to the longitudinal plate axis 415 (e.g., tilted inwards or outwards and / or tilted upwards or downwards).

[0088] Wires 406 are electrically connected to lights 404 for providing power to lighting elements 602. Wires 406 can be terminated directly to lighting elements 602. In other various examples, a wiring pig tail or jumper bundle can extend from lighting elements 602, and wires 406 are terminated to the wiring pig tail or jumper bundle. In other various examples, an electrical connector can be provided at an end of wires 406 for connection to a mating electrical connector associated with lighting elements 602. Wires 406 can carry power and / or data to / from lighting elements 602. In an example example, wires 406 extend from lights 404 and are guided by wire guides 462 to a location on board 410. Wire guides 462 can provide strain relief for wires 406 to prevent damage to wires 406 or lights 404. Wires 406 extend from lights 404 and are configured to be coupled to corresponding wire supports 440. For example, cable ties or other securing elements can be used to secure wires 406 to wire supports 440. In various examples, wires 406 can be wrapped or coiled around wire supports 440, such as at least two wire supports 440, to tighten slack in wires 406 and properly position wires 406 relative to board 410. Wire supports 440 can be sized and shaped to control bending of wires 406, such as to limit stress in wires 406 and maintain a minimum bend radius of wires 406.

[0089] In an example example, multiple wires 406 include upstream wires and downstream wires. The upstream wires are configured to be electrically connected to upstream lights 404. The downstream wires are configured to be electrically connected to downstream lights 404. Power is provided between lights 404 by wires 406. In an example example, wire disconnects 456 are provided at ends of wires 406. Wire disconnects 456 are electrical connectors, such as plug connectors or socket connectors. Wire disconnects 456 can include a connector housing and one or more contacts held in the connector housing. Wire disconnects 456 are configured to be electrically connected to upstream or downstream wire disconnects. In an example example, wire disconnects 456 are coupled to chassis 402 at wire disconnect mounting supports 450.

[0090] Figure 9 is an exploded view of an upper light assembly 400 according to an example example. In the illustrated example, upper light assembly 400 includes a single upper light 404. Upper chassis 402 is sized and shaped to accommodate a single light 404 rather than supporting multiple lights 404. Upper light assembly 400 includes upper chassis 402, upper light 404, upper wires 406, a valence latch 480, and one or more wire guides 462. The components of upper light assembly 400 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation to a luggage rack assembly 140.

[0091] Figure 10 is a top perspective view of a lower chassis 502 according to an example. The chassis 502 includes a lower plate 510 configured to be mounted to the rack assembly 140 (shown in Figure 5 ) and configured to support components of the lower light assembly 500. For example, the plate 510 includes an upper surface 512 for supporting components and a lower surface 514 configured to be mounted directly to the rack assembly 140. Referring back to Figure 5 , the lower light assembly 500 can be mounted at a different location along the upper surface of the rack assembly 140 compared to the upper light assembly 400.

[0092] In example examples, the plate 510 is manufactured to have particular dimensions and features for supporting and precisely positioning components of the lower light assembly 500 relative to each other and to the rack assembly 140. In various examples, the plate 510 is generally planar and extends along a longitudinal plate axis 515 between a first end 516 and a second end 518. The plate 510 has a first side 520 and a second side 522. The first side 520 can define a front side of the plate 510 and the second side 522 can define a rear side of the plate 510. In various examples, the plate 510 can include one or more steps (not shown) to change a height of the plate 510 along a length of the plate 510. The plate 510 includes cutouts 526 through the plate 510, such as to reduce a weight of the plate 510 or to accommodate features of the rack assembly 140. The plate 510 includes mounting openings 528 that accommodate fasteners (not shown) for securing the plate 510 to the rack assembly 140.

[0093] In example examples, the chassis 502 includes support fittings 508 that extend from the upper surface 512 of the plate 510. In examples, the support fittings 508 are spaced apart and separate from the plate 510 and are configured to be coupled to the plate 510. For example, the support fittings 508 can be stamped and formed into structures that are secured to the plate 510 using fasteners or other securing devices. In the illustrated examples, each support fitting 508 is L-shaped, having a base 511 that is mounted to the plate 510 and an upstanding leg 513 that extends from the base 511. In alternative examples, the support fittings 508 can have other shapes. In example examples, the support fittings 508 define light mounting bases 530 for supporting lights 504 (shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6 ) and drape mounting bases 570 for supporting drapes 180 (shown in Figure 4 ). The lights 504 and the drapes 180 can be mounted to different portions of the support fittings 508.

[0094] The chassis 502 includes a plurality of lamp mounting pedestals 530 extending from an upper surface 512 of the plate 510. The lamp mounting pedestals 530 are used to support the lamps 504 of the lower light assembly 500. The lamp mounting pedestals 530 are spaced apart along the plate 510. The plate 510 maintains the relative spacing of the lamp mounting pedestals 530. In various examples, the lamp mounting pedestals 530 can be located at the first side 520 (e.g., the front side); however, other locations are possible in alternative examples.

[0095] Each lamp mounting pedestal 530 includes an alignment mounting feature 534 configured to support a portion of a lamp 504. The alignment mounting feature 534 can include an opening 536, such as a threaded opening, for receiving a fastener to secure the lamp 504 to the alignment mounting feature 534. In examples, the alignment mounting feature 534 is disposed at a front surface of the leg 513 of the support fitting 508. The alignment mounting feature 534 defines an attachment point for the lamp 504. In various examples, the alignment mounting feature 534 is defined by a flat surface at the distal end 532. The flat surface can be oriented perpendicularly, such as perpendicular to the plate 510. Alternatively, the flat surface can be angled transverse to the plate 510. The angle of the alignment mounting feature 534 relative to the plate 510 controls the orientation of the lamp 504 relative to the plate 510.

[0096] In example examples, the position and orientation of the lamp mounting pedestals 530 relative to one another is maintained by the plate 510. The plate 510 spaces the lamp mounting pedestals 530 at a predetermined spacing to support the lamps 504 along the length of the lamps 504. The height of the lamp mounting pedestals 530 is selected to control the vertical spacing of the lamps 504 relative to the plate 510. In various examples, the height of the lamp mounting pedestals 530 can be different from one another, such as to offset the alignment mounting features 534 at different heights relative to the plate 510. In alternative examples, the pads or shims at the plate 510 can have different thicknesses to position the support fittings 508 at different heights and, thus, to mount the lamps 504 at an angle relative to the plate 510. The angle of the alignment mounting features 534 is selected to control the angled orientation of the lamps 504 relative to the plate 510. In various examples, the angled of one or more of the alignment mounting features 534 can be different from the angled of at least one other alignment mounting feature 534.

[0097] The alignment mounting features 534 are positioned relative to one another to define a longitudinal mounting axis 538. In various examples, the vertical positioning and / or edge-to-edge positioning of the light mounting pedestals 530 can be selected to control the orientation of the longitudinal mounting axis 538 relative to the longitudinal panel axis 515, and thus the orientation of the lights 504 relative to the panel 510. In various examples, the light mounting pedestals 530 can be aligned with one another such that the longitudinal mounting axis 538 is parallel to the longitudinal panel axis 515, and thus the lights 504 are oriented parallel to the panel 510. In alternative examples, the light mounting pedestals 530 can be offset from one another such that the longitudinal mounting axis 538 is not parallel to the longitudinal panel axis 515, and thus the lights 504 are oriented non-parallel to the panel 510.

[0098] The chassis 502 includes a plurality of wire supports 540 extending from the upper surface 512 of the panel 510. The wire supports 540 are used to position the wires 506 (shown in FIGS. 15-17) relative to the panel 510. In various examples, the wire supports 540 are spaced apart and separate from the panel 510, and secured to the panel such as using fasteners. In alternative examples, the wire supports 540 are integral with the panel 510. In examples, the wire supports 540 are positioned proximate to the first end 516. The wire supports 540 are spaced apart from one another along the length of the panel 510. The wire supports 540 are located at designated locations to route the wires 506 along the panel 510 along designated paths. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The chassis 502 includes a plurality of wire supports 540 extending from the upper surface 512 of the panel 510. The wire supports 540 are used to position the wires 506 (shown in FIGS. 15-17) relative to the panel 510. In various examples, the wire supports 540 are spaced apart and separate from the panel 510, and secured to the panel such as using fasteners. In alternative examples, the wire supports 540 are integral with the panel 510. In examples, the wire supports 540 are positioned proximate to the first end 516. The wire supports 540 are spaced apart from one another along the length of the panel 510. The wire supports 540 are located at designated locations to route the wires 506 along the panel 510 along designated paths.

[0099] The chassis 502 includes one or more wire disconnect mounting supports 550. The wire disconnect mounting supports 550 are used to mount a wire disconnect at an end of the wires 506 to the panel 510 at a designated area. In an example embodiment, the wire disconnect mounting supports 550 include a pad 552 having a plurality of openings 554. The openings 554 accommodate fasteners, such as threaded fasteners, rivets, snap-in barbs, etc., to fasten the wire disconnect to the wire disconnect mounting support 550.

[0100] The chassis 502 includes a plurality of drape supports defined by drape mounting pedestals 570 that support the drape assembly 508. Other types of support features can be used in alternative examples to support the drape 180. The drape mounting pedestals 570 extend from the upper surface 512 of the panel 510. The drape mounting pedestals 570 are spaced apart along the panel 510. The panel 510 maintains the relative spacing of the drape mounting pedestals 570. In various examples, the drape mounting pedestals 570 can be located on the first side 520 (e.g., front side); however, other locations are possible in alternative examples.

[0101] Each drape mounting base 570 includes an alignment mounting feature 574 configured to support the drape 180. The alignment mounting feature 574 can include an opening 576, such as a threaded opening for receiving a fastener. In examples, the alignment mounting feature 574 is disposed at a distal end of the support fitting 508. The alignment mounting feature 574 defines an attachment point for attaching the drape 180 to the chassis 502. In various examples, the alignment mounting feature 574 is defined by a planar surface. The planar surface can be parallel to the plate 510. Alternatively, the planar surface can be angled non-parallel to the plate 510. For example, the planar surface can be edge-to-edge tilted and / or end-to-end tilted. The angle of the alignment mounting feature 574 relative to the plate 510 controls the orientation of an attachment surface of the drape 180 relative to the plate 510. For example, depending on the angle of the alignment mounting feature 574, the drape 180 can be held parallel to the plate 510 or can be held non-parallel to the plate 510.

[0102] In example examples, the position and orientation of the drape mounting bases 570 relative to one another is maintained by the plate 510. The plate 510 spaces the drape mounting bases 570 at a predetermined spacing to support the drape 180 along a length of the drape 180. The height of the drape mounting bases 570 is selected to control the vertical spacing of the drape latches 580 relative to the plate 510. In various examples, the height of the drape mounting bases 570 can be different from one another, such as to offset the alignment mounting features 574 at different heights relative to the plate 510. In other examples, pads or shims can be disposed at the plate 510 to control the vertical position or height of the support fittings 508 relative to one another and to position the drape mounting bases 570 at different heights. The angle of the alignment mounting features 574 is selected to control the angular orientation of the drape latches 580 relative to the plate 510. In various examples, the angular tilt of one or more of the alignment mounting features 574 can be different from the angular tilt of at least one other alignment mounting feature 574.

[0103] The alignment mounting features 574 are positioned relative to one another to define a longitudinal mounting axis 578. In various examples, the edge-to-edge positioning of the drape mounting bases 570 can be selected to control the orientation of the longitudinal mounting axis 578 relative to the longitudinal plate axis 515 and, thus, the position of the drape 180 relative to the plate 510. In various examples, the drape mounting bases 570 can be aligned with one another such that the longitudinal mounting axis 578 is parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 515 and, thus, the drape 180 is oriented parallel to the plate 510. In alternative examples, the drape mounting bases 570 can be offset from one another such that the longitudinal mounting axis 578 is non-parallel to the longitudinal plate axis 515 and, thus, the drape 180 is oriented non-parallel to the plate 510.

[0104] Figure 11is an exploded view of a lower light assembly 500 according to an example. The lower light assembly 500 includes a lower chassis 502, one or more lower lights 504, lower wires 506, and one or more drape supports 580 for supporting the drape 180. The components of the lower light assembly 500 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation to the luggage rack assembly 140. For example, the lower light assembly 500 can be pre-assembled outside of the aircraft 110, such as on an assembly table where the components are easily accessible for proper and quick assembly. The assembly unit can be inspected outside of the aircraft 110 prior to installation to the luggage rack assembly 140, such as to ensure that the lights 504 are properly installed to the chassis 502 and the wires 506 are properly routed and secured to the chassis 502.

[0105] The drape support 580 includes a rail 582 and a plurality of spring clips 590 coupled to the rail 582. The rail 582 extends longitudinally between opposite ends. The rail 582 includes a flange 584 at a bottom edge. The flange 584 is for supporting the drape 180. The rail 582 includes rail mounting brackets 586 along a length of the rail 582, such as at the ends and along a center portion of the rail 582. The rail 582 includes a plurality of clip mounting brackets 588 along the length of the rail 582.

[0106] The spring clips 590 are mounted to the clip mounting brackets 588 along the rail 582. Each spring clip 590 includes a mounting end 592 coupled to the clip mounting brackets 588 of the rail 582 and a clip end 594 opposite the mounting end 592. The clip end 594 faces the flange 584. A portion of the drape 180 is configured to be received between the flange 584 and the clip end 594 of the rail 582.

[0107] During assembly, the drape support 580 is configured to be secured to the drape mounting base 570, such as using fasteners. For example, the rail mounting brackets 586 are secured to the drape mounting base 570 using fasteners. In various examples, the rail 582 is coupled to the lights 504 and both the rail 582 and the lights 504 are coupled to the support fitting 508. The position and orientation of the drape support 580 and the lights 504 are controlled by the support fitting 508.

[0108] In examples, the lower light assembly 500 includes a plurality of lights 504, such as a first light and a second light. Each light 504 includes a housing 700 holding a lighting element or light 702 and a lens 704. In examples, the lighting element 702 is an LED; however, in other examples, other types of lighting elements can be used, such as fluorescent tubes. The lens 704 is located in front of the light 504 and controls the lighting effect. Light from the lighting element 702 is emitted through the lens 704. The light 504 extends along a longitudinal light axis 706.

[0109] The lamps 504 are mounted to corresponding lamp mounting bases 530 of the chassis 502. In an example example, each lamp 504 is supported by a plurality of lamp mounting bases 530. For example, the lamp mounting bases 530 can be disposed near the ends of the lamps 504 and / or along other portions of the lamps 504, such as central portions of the lamps 504. The housings 700 of the lamps 504 are mounted to the aligned mounting features 534 of the lamp mounting bases 530, such as using fasteners. The aligned mounting features 534 control the position and orientation of the lamps 504 relative to the chassis 502. In an example, the lamps 504 are positioned adjacent to one another such that the lamp axes 706 are coincident. The lamp axes 706 can be parallel to the longitudinal panel axis 515. In another example, the lamp axes 706 can be oriented transverse to the longitudinal panel axis 515 (e.g., tilted inwardly or outwardly and / or tilted upwardly or downwardly).

[0110] The wires 506 are electrically connected to the lamps 504 for providing power to the lighting elements 702. The wires 506 can be terminated directly to the lighting elements 702. In other various examples, a wire pigtail or jumper harness can extend from the lighting elements 702, and the wires 506 are terminated to the wire pigtail or jumper harness. In other various examples, an electrical connector can be disposed at the end of the wires 506 for connection to a mating electrical connector associated with the lighting elements 702. The wires 506 can carry power and / or data to / from the lighting elements 702. In an example example, the wires 506 extend from the lamps 504 and are configured to be coupled to corresponding wire holders 540. For example, the wires 506 can be secured to the wire holders 540 using cable ties or other securing elements. In various examples, the wires 506 can be wrapped or coiled around the wire holders 540 to tighten slack in the wires 506 and properly position the wires 506 relative to the panel 510. The wire holders 540 can be sized and shaped to control bending of the wires 506, such as to limit stress in the wires 506 and maintain a minimum bend radius of the wires 506.

[0111] In an example example, the plurality of wires 506 includes upstream wires and downstream wires. The upstream wires are configured to be electrically connected to the upstream lamps 504. The downstream wires are configured to be electrically connected to the downstream lamps 504. Power and / or data are provided between the lamps 504 by the wires 506. In an example example, a wire disconnect 556 is disposed at the end of the wires 506. The wire disconnect 556 is an electrical connector, such as a plug connector or a socket connector. The wire disconnect 556 can include a connector housing and one or more contacts held in the connector housing. The wire disconnect 556 is configured to be electrically connected to an upstream or downstream wire disconnect. In an example example, the wire disconnect 556 is coupled to the chassis 502 at a wire disconnect mounting bracket 550.

[0112] Figure 12 is an exploded view of a lower light assembly 500 according to an example. In the illustrated example, the lower light assembly 500 includes a single lower light 504. The lower chassis 502 is sized and shaped to house the single light 504 rather than support multiple lights 504. The lower light assembly 500 includes a lower chassis 502, a support fitting 508, a lower light 504, a lower wire 506, and a valance support 580. The components of the lower light assembly 500 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation to the luggage rack assembly 140.

[0113] Figure 13 is a top view of a lower light assembly 500 according to an example. In the illustrated example, the shape of the lower chassis 502 is different than the example shown in FIG. 5, such as shorter and wider. The lower chassis 502 can be used on different portions of the luggage rack assembly 140 (FIG. 1) or on luggage rack assemblies having different shapes. In the illustrated example, the wire support 540 is located at a different position along the lower chassis 502 to control the routing of the lower wire 506. The lower light assembly 500 includes a single lower light 504. The components of the lower light assembly 500 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation to the luggage rack assembly 140. Figure 12 Figure 4 Figure 13 is a top view of a portion of the lower light assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 according to an example. The lower chassis 502 supports the support fitting 508 and the wire support 540 in place for supporting the lower light 504, the lower wire 506, and the valance support 580. The lower wire 506 is secured to the wire support 540 using a securing element 542, such as a cable tie. The lower wire 506 can be coiled into one or more wire coils 507, which can be secured to one or more wire supports 540. In various examples, tie blocks 544 are used to control the routing of the wiring. The securing element 542 secures the lower wire 504 to the tie blocks 544. The components of the lower light assembly 500 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation to the luggage rack assembly 140.

[0114] Figure 14 is a top view of a portion of the lower light assembly 500 shown in FIG. 5 according to an example. The lower chassis 502 supports the support fitting 508 and the wire support 540 in place for supporting the lower light 504, the lower wire 506, and the valance support 580. The lower wire 506 is secured to the wire support 540 using a securing element 542, such as a cable tie. The lower wire 506 can be coiled into one or more wire coils 507, which can be secured to one or more wire supports 540. In various examples, tie blocks 544 are used to control the routing of the wiring. The securing element 542 secures the lower wire 504 to the tie blocks 544. The components of the lower light assembly 500 are configured to be assembled into an assembly unit prior to installation to the luggage rack assembly 140. Figure 11

[0115] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a valance 180 according to an example. The valance 180 includes a valance panel 181 including an inner surface 182 and an outer surface 183. The inner surface 182 forms a valance pocket 184. The valance 180 includes an upper edge 190 and a lower edge 192. The valance pocket 184 is located between the upper edge 190 and the lower edge 192.

[0116] ​​​The curtain 180 includes ribs 185 in the curtain cavity 184 that support the curtain panels 181. The ribs 185 are spaced along the length of the curtain panels 181. Each rib 185 includes a cam surface 186 that is configured to engage a guide roller 187 (shown in Figure 16 ) to guide the curtain 180 in cooperation with the luggage rack assembly 140. The ribs 185 fix the overall shape of the curtain 180 throughout the length of the curtain 180. The ribs 185 are periodically spaced along the curtain 180 to provide internal structure to the curtain 180 to maintain shape. The shape between two different curtains 180 is maintained to control the fit and alignment of curtains 180 placed adjacent to each other in an aircraft. The curtain 180 includes a plurality of latching elements 188 that are configured to latchably couple to the curtain latches 480 Figure 16 ). The latching elements 188 can be located near the upper edge 190. In various examples, the latching elements 188 can be clips that are configured to clip into the curtain latches 480.

[0117] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a portion of the aircraft 110 that couples to the corresponding luggage rack lighting assembly 150 according to an example. The curtain 180 is coupled to one of the luggage rack lighting assemblies 150 to show the components of the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 when the curtain is removed from the other luggage rack lighting assembly 150. The luggage rack lighting assembly 150 is pre-assembled outside of the aircraft 110, such as on an assembly table where the components are easily accessible for proper and quick assembly. The assembled unit can be inspected outside of the aircraft 110, such as to ensure that the lighting and wiring are properly installed and routed before assembly to the luggage rack assembly 140, before installing the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 to the upper portion 146 of the luggage rack assembly 140.

[0118] The space 138 is disposed between the luggage rack assemblies 140. Portions of the locator plate 144 extend into the space 138 to support the luggage rack assemblies 140. In various examples, portions of the luggage rack lighting assembly 150 can span the space 138. For example, the wire 406 (and the wire 506, which is not shown in Figure 16 ) can span the space 138. In various examples, the chassis 402 and the light 404 can span the space 138. The wire holder 440 provides an anchor point for the wire 406 to route the wire 406 relative to other structures, such as the locator plate 144, the guide roller 187, or other structures.

[0119] The luggage rack lighting assembly 150 is mounted to the upper portion 146 to position a curtain latch 480 for receiving the curtain 180. During assembly of the curtain 180, a lower portion of the curtain 180 is coupled to the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150 and an upper portion of the curtain 180 is coupled to the upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150. The latch element 188 is latchably coupled to the curtain latch 480. In an example example, for ease of installation, the curtain 180 is configured for blind installation. For example, a lower portion of the curtain 180 can be set into the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150 and then the curtain 180 can be pivoted in a mating direction to latchably couple an upper portion of the curtain 180 to the upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150. In an example example, the curtain 180 can be assembled without the use of tools.

[0120] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a portion of the aircraft 110 coupled to one of the curtains 180 to corresponding luggage rack assemblies 140 and luggage rack lighting assemblies 150, according to an example example. In an example example, for ease of installation, the curtain 180 is configured for blind installation without the use of tools.

[0121] During assembly, a lower edge 192 of the curtain 180 is coupled to the curtain support 580 of the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150. The curtain 180 is then pivoted in a mating direction (shown by the arrow) to latchably couple the latch element 188 at an upper edge 190 of the curtain 180 to the curtain latch 480 of the upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150. Figure 16 The guide roller 187 is used to guide the mating of the latch element 188 with the curtain latch 480. For example, a cam surface 186 is formed in the rib 185 to engage the guide roller 187 and guide the latch element 188 into latching engagement with the curtain latch 480.

[0122] Figure 18 is a perspective view showing a portion of the aircraft 110 coupled to one of the curtains 180 to corresponding luggage rack assemblies 140 and luggage rack lighting assemblies 150, according to an example example. In an example example, for ease of installation, the curtain 180 is configured for blind installation without the use of tools. Figure 19 is a perspective view showing a portion of the aircraft 110 coupled to one of the curtains 180 to corresponding luggage rack assemblies 140 and luggage rack lighting assemblies 150, according to an example example. In an example example, for ease of installation, the curtain 180 is configured for blind installation without the use of tools.

[0123] The upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150 and the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150 are coupled to the upper portion 146 of the luggage rack assembly 140. In an example, the upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150 is coupled to the first wall 147 and the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150 is coupled to the second wall 149. However, in other examples, the upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150 and the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150 can be coupled to the same wall of the luggage rack assembly 140. In an example embodiment, the upper chassis 402 holds the upper light 404 behind and above the drape support such that light from the upper light 404 can be directed toward the ceiling 104 to illuminate the ceiling 104. In an example embodiment, the lower chassis 502 holds the lower light 504 below and in front of the lower edge of the drape 180 such that light from the lower light 504 can be directed along the bottom of the drape 180 toward the outer surface 183 of the drape 180 to illuminate the drape 180. The upper wire 406 and the lower wire 506 are located behind the drape 180, such as in the drape cavity 184. The wires 406, 506 are organized and held in place by the wire holder 440, 540.

[0124] During assembly, the drape 180 is initially coupled to the drape support 580 of the lower luggage rack lighting assembly 150. The lower edge 192 is coupled to the track 582. For example, the lower edge 192 is received in the cavity of the flange 584 at the bottom edge of the track 582. The spring clip 590 holds the lower edge 192 in the cavity of the flange 584. The clip end 594 of the spring clip 590 presses against the lower edge 192 and holds the lower edge 192 against the flange 584. The lower edge 192 captured in the cavity is not visible to passengers in the cabin. In other examples, the upper edge 190 can additionally or alternatively be captured by a track and spring clip in a similar manner as described herein with respect to the lower edge 192.

[0125] At the upper edge 190 of the drape 180, the latching element 188 is shown latchably coupled to the drape latch 480 of the upper luggage rack lighting assembly 150. The guide roller 187 guides the latching element 188 into latching engagement with the drape latch 480. For example, the cam surface 186 formed in the rib 185 travels along the guide roller 187 to guide the latching element 188 into latching engagement with the drape latch 480. The cam surface 186 has a contoured surface that guides the latching element 188 into the drape latch 480 as the drape 180 is rotated in the mating direction. In an example embodiment, the rib 185 includes a wire cutout 189 for the wire 404 to pass through the rib 185. The latching element 188 is hidden from view of passengers by the drape 180. The latching element 188 can be released from above the drape 180. In various examples, the drape 180 can be removed without the use of tools.

[0126] Referring back to Figures 1 to 19Systems and methods are provided for installing lighting components and drapes within an interior cabin of an aircraft. The systems and methods allow for easy installation of lighting and drape components to a luggage rack assembly in an aircraft. For example, the systems and methods provide for assembly of various components outside of the aircraft, such as on a workbench, where the components can be quickly assembled and the assembly can be precisely controlled and customized to accommodate the luggage rack assembly configuration. The assembled unit with lighting and wiring is installed in the aircraft in a single step without the need to assemble the lighting or wiring in place in the aircraft. The drape is configured to be assembled in place in the aircraft. In various examples, the drape can be blindly fitted to the support without the use of tools for quick and easy installation. The systems and methods allow for different lighting and drape configurations to be installed to different luggage rack assemblies due to changes in the shape of the cabin along the fuselage.

[0127] Certain examples provide a luggage rack lighting assembly for installation to an interior cabin of a vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a chassis including a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and configured to be installed to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin. The chassis supports a light mount base and a wire holder. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light assembly removably coupled to the chassis. The light assembly includes a light and a wire electrically connected to the light. The light is coupled to the light mount base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The wire provides power to the light and is coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control a position of the wire.

[0128] In at least one example, the light and the wire of the luggage rack lighting assembly are pre-assembled to the chassis prior to installation of the chassis to the luggage rack assembly.

[0129] In at least one example, the lamp mounting bases of the luggage rack lighting assembly provide multiple attachment points for the lamps, and the plate maintains the spacing of the lamp mounting bases relative to one another. In various examples, each lamp mounting base includes an alignment mounting feature that supports a portion of a lamp. The alignment mounting features can be offset relative to one another and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle. The alignment mounting features of the lamp mounting bases can define a longitudinal mounting axis that is laterally tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis. The lamps are held along the longitudinal mounting axis. The height of each alignment mounting feature can be different than the height of at least one other alignment mounting feature to cause the longitudinal mounting axis to be perpendicularly tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis. The height of each alignment mounting feature can be different than the height of at least one other alignment mounting feature such that the longitudinal mounting axis is perpendicularly tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis. Each alignment mounting feature can include an angled mounting surface formed at an angle relative to an upper surface of the plate. The angled mounting surface can be formed at a different angle relative to at least one other angled mounting surface. All of the angled mounting surfaces define the longitudinal mounting axis. In various examples, the lamp mounting bases have different heights to position the lamps at different distances from the upper surface of the plate, such as to orient the lamps to extend along the longitudinal mounting axis.

[0130] In at least one example, the plate of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes a step feature configured to span a gap from the luggage rack assembly to an adjacent luggage rack assembly.

[0131] In at least one example, the chassis of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes wire guide boss extending from an upper surface of the plate that supports a wire guide on the chassis for controlling routing of the wire between the wire and the wire holder.

[0132] In at least one example, the wire is wrapped around at least two of the wire holders.

[0133] In at least one example, the chassis of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire disconnect mounting bracket. The wire has a wire disconnect at an end of the wire that is coupled to the wire disconnect mounting bracket to position the wire disconnect relative to the chassis.

[0134] In at least one example, the lamp is a first lamp. The lamp assembly further includes a second lamp mounted to a corresponding lamp mounting base. The lamp mounting base positions the first lamp adjacent to the second lamp on the chassis. The first lamp extends along a first axis, and the second lamp extends along a second axis. The lamp mounting base can hold the first lamp and the second lamp with the first axis coincident with the second axis.

[0135] In at least one example, the lamp mounting base is integral with the plate.

[0136] In at least one example, the bottom tray of the luggage rack lighting assembly includes at least one drape support supported by the bottom tray. A drape is coupled to the at least one drape support. The drape is configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support. In an example, the drape support includes a track and a plurality of spring clips coupled to the track. A lower edge of the drape is coupled between the track and the spring clips. The track can include a flange. The spring clips can include a mounting end coupled to the track and a clip end opposite the mounting end facing the flange. The lower edge of the drape can be captured between the flange and the clip end of the spring clips. In an example, the drape includes a drape panel including an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface forms a drape cavity. The drape includes ribs within the drape cavity supporting the drape panel. The ribs can include cam surfaces configured to engage a guide roller extending from the luggage rack assembly to control the fit of the drape to the drape support. In an example, the drape support includes drape latches. The drape can be latchably coupled to the drape latches. In an example, the bottom tray further includes drape mounting pedestals extending from the upper surface of the plate. The drape latches are coupled to corresponding drape mounting pedestals. The drape mounting pedestals position the plurality of drape latches relative to the plate. In an example, each drape mounting pedestal includes an alignment mounting feature supporting a corresponding drape latch. The alignment mounting features are offset relative to each other and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle. The alignment mounting features of the drape mounting pedestals can define a longitudinal mounting axis that is laterally tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis. The drape is retained along the longitudinal mounting axis.

[0137] Certain examples provide a luggage rack lighting assembly for mounting to an interior cabin of a vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a bottom tray including a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The plate has an upper surface configured to mount to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin and a lower surface. The bottom tray supports a light mounting pedestal above the upper surface. The bottom tray supports a wire holder above the upper surface. The bottom tray supports at least one drape support above the upper surface. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a light mounted to the light mounting pedestal. The light is positioned above the plate by the light mounting pedestal for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a wire electrically connected to the light to provide power and / or data to the light. The wire is coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control the position of the wire relative to the plate. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes a drape coupled to the drape mounting pedestal. The drape is configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

[0138] Certain examples provide a vehicle having an interior cabin having a ceiling, a plurality of luggage rack assemblies within the interior cabin each having an upper portion facing the ceiling, and a plurality of luggage rack lighting assemblies coupled to the luggage rack assemblies at the upper portions of the corresponding luggage rack assemblies. Each luggage rack lighting assembly includes a chassis including a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The chassis is mounted to the corresponding luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin. The chassis supports a lamp mount base and a wire support. Each luggage rack lighting assembly includes a lamp assembly removably coupled to the chassis. The lamp assembly includes a lamp and a wire electrically connected to the lamp. The lamp is coupled to the lamp mount base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle. The wire provides power to the lamp. The wire is coupled to at least one of the wire supports to control the position of the wire.

[0139] Certain examples provide a vehicle having an interior cabin having a ceiling, a luggage rack assembly within the interior cabin, and a luggage rack lighting assembly. The luggage rack assembly has an upper portion facing the ceiling and a cavity formed between the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly and the ceiling. The luggage rack lighting assembly is housed in the cavity. The luggage rack lighting assembly includes an upper lamp assembly, a lower lamp assembly, and a drape coupled between the upper lamp assembly and the lower lamp assembly. The upper lamp assembly includes an upper chassis coupled to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly. The upper chassis includes an upper plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The upper chassis supports an upper lamp mount base above the upper plate. The upper lamp assembly includes an upper lamp mounted to the upper lamp mount base. The upper chassis supports an upper drape latch above the upper chassis. The lower lamp assembly includes a lower chassis coupled to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly independent of the upper chassis. The lower chassis includes a lower plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The lower chassis supports a lower lamp mount base above the lower plate. The lower lamp assembly includes a lower lamp mounted to the lower lamp mount base. The lower chassis supports a lower drape support above the lower chassis. The drape is coupled to the lower drape support and to the upper drape latch to control the position of the drape relative to the luggage rack assembly.

[0140] Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a method of lighting a luggage rack assembly in an interior cabin of an aircraft. The method includes the steps of: coupling a lamp to a plurality of lamp mount bases extending from a chassis at a location outside the interior cabin; coupling a wire extending from the lamp to a plurality of wire supports extending from the chassis at the location outside the interior cabin; and mounting the chassis to an upper portion of the luggage rack assembly inside the interior cabin to position the lamp and the wire above the luggage rack assembly.

[0141] In at least one example, the method includes the step of: inspecting the lamp and the wire mounted on the chassis at the location outside the interior cabin prior to mounting the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly within the interior cable.

[0142] In at least one example, the method includes the steps of: disassembling the chassis with the lights and wires mounted to the chassis from the luggage rack assembly; removing the chassis with the lights and wires mounted to the chassis from the interior cabin; replacing the lights and wires on the chassis; and mounting the chassis with the replaced lights and wires to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly within the interior cabin to position the lights and wires above the luggage rack assembly.

[0143] In at least one example, the method includes the steps of: coupling at least one drape support to the chassis at a location outside the interior cabin and coupling a drape to the at least one drape support to secure the drape to the luggage rack assembly and cover the cavity. The at least one drape support can include a drape latch and the drape can include a cam surface. The step of coupling the drape to the at least one drape support includes engaging the cam surface with a guide roller to guide the drape into cooperation with the drape latch.

[0144] In at least one example, the step of mounting the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly includes mounting the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly such that the lights are held along a longitudinal mounting axis that tapers laterally relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the interior cabin.

[0145] Further, the present disclosure includes examples in accordance with the following:

[0146] Item 1. A luggage rack lighting assembly for mounting to an interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising:

[0147] a chassis including a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and configured to mount to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin, the chassis supporting a light mounting base and a wire holder;

[0148] a light assembly removably coupled to the chassis, the light assembly including a light and a wire electrically connected to the light, the light coupled to the light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle, the wire providing electrical power to the light, the wire coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control a position of the wire.

[0149] Item 2. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the light and wire are preassembled to the chassis prior to mounting the chassis to the luggage rack assembly.

[0150] Item 3. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the light mounting base provides a plurality of attachment points for the light, the plate maintaining a spacing of the light mounting base relative to one another.

[0151] Item 4. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein each light mounting pedestal includes an alignment mounting feature that supports a portion of a light, wherein the alignment mounting features are offset relative to each other and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle, the alignment mounting features of the light mounting pedestal defining a longitudinally tapering longitudinal mounting axis relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis along which the light is held.

[0152] Item 5. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 4, wherein each alignment mounting feature includes a height that is different than a height of at least one other alignment mounting feature, such that the longitudinal mounting axis is perpendicularly tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis.

[0153] Item 6. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 4, wherein each alignment mounting feature includes an angled mounting surface formed at an angle relative to an upper surface of the plate, wherein each angled mounting surface is formed at a different angle relative to at least one other angled mounting surface, and wherein all of the angled mounting surfaces define the longitudinal mounting axis.

[0154] Item 7. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the light mounting pedestals have different heights, such that the light extends along a longitudinally tapering longitudinal mounting axis.

[0155] Item 8. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the plate includes a step feature configured to span a gap from a luggage rack assembly to an adjacent luggage rack assembly.

[0156] Item 9. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the chassis includes a wire guide boss extending from an upper surface of the plate, the wire guide boss supporting a wire guide on the chassis that controls routing of the wire between the wire and the wire holder.

[0157] Item 10. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the wire is wrapped around at least two of the wire holders.

[0158] Item 11. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the chassis includes a wire disconnect mounting holder, the wire having a wire disconnect at an end of the wire, the wire disconnect coupled to the wire disconnect mounting holder to position the wire disconnect relative to the chassis.

[0159] Item 12. The overhead luggage rack lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the light is a first light, the light assembly further including a second light mounted to a corresponding light mounting pedestal, the light mounting pedestal positioning the first light adjacent to the second light on the chassis.

[0160] Item 13. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 12, wherein the first light extends along a first axis and the second light extends along a second axis, the light mounting base holding the first light and the second light, wherein the first axis coincides with the second axis.

[0161] Item 14. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the lamp base is integral with the plate.

[0162] Item 15. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 1, wherein the chassis includes at least one drape support supported by the chassis, a drape coupled to the at least one drape support, wherein the drape is configured to be coupled to the overhead console assembly by the drape support.

[0163] Item 16. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 15, wherein the drape support includes a track and a plurality of spring clips coupled to the track, a lower edge of the drape being coupled between the track and the spring clips.

[0164] Item 17. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 16, wherein the track includes a flange, the spring clips include a plurality of mounting ends coupled to the track and clip ends opposite the mounting ends facing the flange, the lower edge of the drape being captured between the flange and the clip ends of the spring clips.

[0165] Item 18. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 15, wherein the drape includes a drape panel including an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface forming a drape cavity, the drape including a rib supporting the drape panel in the drape cavity, the rib including a cam surface configured to engage a guide roller extending from the overhead console assembly to control the fit of the drape to the drape support.

[0166] Item 19. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 15, wherein the drape support includes a drape latch, the drape being latchably coupled to the drape latch.

[0167] Item 20. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 19, wherein the chassis further includes a drape mounting base extending from an upper surface of the plate, the drape latch being coupled to a corresponding drape mounting base, the drape mounting base positioning the plurality of drape latches relative to the plate.

[0168] Item 21. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 20, wherein each drape mounting base includes an alignment mounting feature supporting a corresponding drape latch, wherein the alignment mounting features are offset relative to one another and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle, the alignment mounting features of the drape mounting bases defining a longitudinal mounting axis that tapers laterally relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis along which the drape is held.

[0169] Item 22. A luggage rack lighting assembly for mounting to an interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising:

[0170] a chassis comprising a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end, the plate having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to mount to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin, the chassis supporting a light mounting base above the upper surface, the chassis supporting a wire holder above the upper surface, the chassis supporting at least one drape support above the upper surface;

[0171] a light mounted to the light mounting base, the light positioned above the plate by the light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle;

[0172] a wire electrically connected to the light to provide power to the light, the wire coupled to at least one of the wire holder to control a position of the wire relative to the plate; and

[0173] a drape coupled to the drape mounting base, wherein the drape is configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

[0174] Item 23. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the drape support comprises a rail and a plurality of spring clips coupled to the rail, a lower edge of the drape being coupled between the rail and the spring clips.

[0175] Item 24. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 23, wherein the rail comprises a flange, the spring clips comprise a plurality of mounting ends coupled to the rail and clip ends opposite the mounting ends facing the flange, the lower edge of the drape being captured between the flange and the clip ends of the spring clips.

[0176] Item 25. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the drape support comprises a drape latch, the drape being latchably coupled to the drape latch.

[0177] Item 26. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the chassis further comprises a plurality of drape mounting bases extending from the upper surface of the plate and a plurality of drape latches coupled to the corresponding drape mounting bases, the drape mounting bases positioning the plurality of drape latches relative to the plate.

[0178] Item 27. The luggage rack lighting assembly of item 26, wherein each drape mounting base comprises an alignment mounting feature supporting a corresponding drape latch, wherein the alignment mounting features are offset relative to each other and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle, the alignment mounting features of the drape mounting bases defining a longitudinal mounting axis tapering laterally relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis along which the drape is held.

[0179] Item 28. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the drape includes a drape panel including an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface forming a drape cavity, the drape including a rib supporting the drape panel in the drape cavity, the rib including a cam surface configured to engage a guide roller extending from the overhead console assembly to control the drape’s cooperation with the drape support.

[0180] Item 29. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the lamp and the wire are pre-assembled to the chassis prior to the chassis being installed to the overhead console assembly, the drape being coupled to the drape support after the chassis is installed to the overhead console assembly.

[0181] Item 30. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the wire is wrapped around at least two of the wire holders, the position of the wire holders controlling the positioning of the coil relative to the board.

[0182] Item 31. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 22, wherein the lamp is a first lamp, the lamp assembly further comprising a second lamp mounted to a corresponding lamp mounting base, the lamp mounting base positioning the first lamp adjacent to the second lamp on the chassis.

[0183] Item 32. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 22, wherein each lamp mounting base includes an alignment mounting feature supporting a portion of the lamp, wherein the alignment mounting features are offset relative to one another and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle, the alignment mounting features of the lamp mounting bases defining a longitudinal mounting axis that is laterally tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis along which the lamp is held.

[0184] Item 33. The overhead console lighting assembly of item 32, wherein each alignment mounting feature includes a height that is different than a height of at least one other alignment mounting feature to cause the longitudinal mounting axis to be perpendicularly tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis.

[0185] Item 34. A vehicle comprising:

[0186] an interior cabin having a ceiling;

[0187] a plurality of overhead console assemblies within the interior cabin, each overhead console assembly having an upper portion facing the ceiling; and

[0188] a plurality of overhead console lighting assemblies coupled to the overhead console assemblies at the upper portions of the corresponding overhead console assemblies, each overhead console lighting assembly comprising:

[0189] a chassis including a board extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end, the chassis being mounted to the corresponding overhead console assembly of the interior cabin, the chassis supporting a lamp mounting base and a wire holder;

[0190] A light assembly removably coupled to a chassis, the light assembly including a light and a wire electrically connected to the light, the light coupled to a light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to an interior cabin of the vehicle.

[0191] Item 35. The vehicle of item 34, wherein the wire is coupled to at least one of the wire supports to control the position of the wire, the light and the wire preassembled to the chassis prior to mounting the chassis to the corresponding luggage rack assembly.

[0192] Item 36. The vehicle of item 34, wherein the plate includes a step feature configured to span adjacent luggage rack assemblies.

[0193] Item 37. The vehicle of item 34, wherein the light is a first light, the light assembly further including a second light mounted to a corresponding light mounting base, the light mounting base positioning the first light adjacent to the second light on the chassis.

[0194] Item 38. The vehicle of item 34, wherein the chassis includes at least one drape support coupled to the chassis, a drape coupled to the at least one drape support, wherein the drape is coupled to the corresponding luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

[0195] Item 39. A vehicle, comprising:

[0196] an interior cabin having a ceiling;

[0197] a luggage rack assembly within the interior cabin, the luggage rack assembly having an upper portion facing the ceiling, a cavity formed between the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly and the ceiling; and

[0198] a luggage rack lighting assembly housed in the cavity, the luggage rack lighting assembly including an upper light assembly, a lower light assembly, and a drape coupled between the upper light assembly and the lower light assembly;

[0199] the upper light assembly including an upper chassis coupled to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly, the upper chassis including an upper plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end, the upper chassis supporting an upper light mounting base above the upper plate, the upper light assembly including an upper light mounted to the upper light mounting base, the upper chassis supporting an upper drape latch above the upper chassis;

[0200] the lower light assembly including a lower chassis coupled to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly independently of the upper chassis, the lower chassis including a lower plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end, the lower chassis supporting a lower light mounting base above the lower plate, the lower light assembly including a lower light mounted to the lower light mounting base, the lower chassis supporting a lower drape support above the lower chassis;

[0201] The curtain is coupled to a lower curtain support and to an upper curtain latch to control the position of the curtain relative to the luggage rack assembly.

[0202] Item 40. The vehicle of item 39, wherein the upper light and the upper wire extending from the upper light are pre-assembled to the upper chassis before the upper chassis is installed to the luggage rack assembly, and wherein the lower light and the lower wire extending from the lower light are pre-assembled to the lower chassis before the lower chassis is installed to the luggage rack assembly.

[0203] Item 41. The vehicle of item 39, wherein the upper chassis is installed to the luggage rack assembly independently of the lower chassis.

[0204] Item 42. A method of illuminating a luggage rack assembly in an interior cabin of an aircraft, the method comprising:

[0205] coupling a light to a plurality of light mounts extending from a chassis at a location outside the interior cabin;

[0206] coupling a wire extending from the light to a plurality of wire mounts extending from the chassis at the location outside the interior cabin;

[0207] installing the chassis to an upper portion of the luggage rack assembly inside the interior cabin to position the light and the wire above the luggage rack assembly.

[0208] Item 43. The method of item 42, further comprising inspecting the light and the wire mounted to the chassis at the location outside the interior cabin before installing the chassis to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly.

[0209] Item 44. The method of item 42, further comprising:

[0210] removing the chassis with the light and the wire mounted to the chassis from the luggage rack assembly;

[0211] removing the chassis with the light and the wire mounted to the chassis from the interior cabin;

[0212] replacing the light and the wire on the chassis; and

[0213] installing the chassis with the replaced light and the wire to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly inside the interior cabin to position the light and the wire above the luggage rack assembly.

[0214] Item 45. The method of item 42, further comprising coupling at least one curtain support to the chassis at the location outside the interior cabin, and coupling a curtain to the at least one curtain support to secure the curtain to the luggage rack assembly and cover the cavity.

[0215] Item 46. The method of item 45, wherein the at least one drape support includes a drape latch, the drape includes a cam surface, said coupling the drape to the at least one drape support includes engaging the cam surface with the guide roller to guide the drape into cooperation with the drape latch.

[0216] Item 47. The method of item 42, wherein said mounting the base pan to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly includes mounting the base pan to the upper portion of the luggage rack assembly such that the light remains along a longitudinal mounting axis that tapers laterally relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the interior cabin.

[0217] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the application without departing from its scope. Dimensions, types of materials, orientations of the various components, and the number and positions of the various components described herein are intended to define parameters of certain examples, and are by no means limiting and are merely exemplary examples. Many other examples and modifications will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the above description. The scope of the application should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead with reference to the appended claims, along with their full scope of equivalents. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

Claims

1. A luggage rack lighting assembly for mounting to an interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising: a chassis comprising a plate extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and configured to mount to a luggage rack assembly of the interior cabin, the chassis supporting a light mounting base and a wire support; a light assembly removably coupled to the chassis, the light assembly comprising a light and a wire electrically connected to the light, the light coupled to the light mounting base for providing illumination from the luggage rack assembly to the interior cabin of the vehicle, the wire providing power to the light, the wire coupled to at least one of the wire support to control a position of the wire, wherein each light mounting base comprises an alignment mounting feature supporting a portion of the light, wherein the alignment mounting features are offset relative to each other and relative to a longitudinal fuselage axis of the vehicle, the alignment mounting features of the light mounting base defining a longitudinal mounting axis that is laterally tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis along which the light is held.

2. The luggage rack lighting assembly of claim 1, wherein, The light and the wire are pre-assembled to the chassis prior to mounting the chassis to the luggage rack assembly.

3. The luggage rack lighting assembly of claim 1, wherein, The light mounting base provides a plurality of attachment points for the light, the plate maintaining a spacing of the light mounting base relative to each other.

4. The luggage rack lighting assembly of claim 1, wherein, Each alignment mounting feature comprises a height that is different than a height of at least one other alignment mounting feature, such that the longitudinal mounting axis is perpendicularly tapered relative to the longitudinal fuselage axis.

5. The overhead console assembly of Claim 1, wherein, Each alignment mounting feature comprises an angled mounting surface formed at an angle relative to an upper surface of the plate, wherein each angled mounting surface is formed at a different angle relative to at least one other angled mounting surface, and wherein all angled mounting surfaces define the longitudinal mounting axis.

6. The luggage rack lighting assembly of claim 1, wherein, The light mounting base has different heights, such that the light extends along a longitudinal mounting axis.

7. The overhead console assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The plate comprises a step feature configured to span a gap from the luggage rack assembly to an adjacent luggage rack assembly.

8. The overhead console lighting assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The chassis comprises a wire guide boss extending from an upper surface of the plate, the wire guide boss supporting a wire guide on the chassis that controls a routing of the wire between the light and the wire support.

9. The overhead console lighting assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The wire is wrapped around at least two of the wire supports.

10. The overhead console assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The chassis comprises a wire disconnect mounting support, the wire having a wire disconnect at an end of the wire, the wire disconnect coupled to the wire disconnect mounting support to position the wire disconnect relative to the chassis.

11. The overhead console lighting assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The light is a first light, the light assembly further comprising a second light mounted to a corresponding light mounting base, the light mounting base positioning the first light adjacent to the second light on the chassis.

12. The overhead console lighting assembly of claim 11, wherein, The first light extends along a first axis and the second light extends along a second axis, the light mounting base holding the first light and the second light, wherein the first axis coincides with the second axis.

13. The overhead console lighting assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The light mounting base is integral with the plate.

14. The overhead console lighting assembly of Claim 1, wherein, The chassis includes at least one drape support supported by the chassis, a drape coupled to the at least one drape support, wherein the drape is configured to be coupled to the luggage rack assembly by the drape support.

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