Aircraft cabin barrier

Abstract

A deployable steward seat assembly configured to deploy in a vehicle cabin from a stowed position as a steward seat into a deployed position, thereby configuring the deployable steward seat assembly to a lockable barrier, a lockable barrier is provided to prevent passengers from moving into a vehicle area in front of the lockable barrier along an aisle in a vehicle cabin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of barriers, and more particularly to barrier doors configured for use within an aircraft. Background Art

[0002] An aircraft has a cockpit that includes flight instruments, instrument panels, and various controls that enable the crew to operate the aircraft. The cockpit is located toward the front of the aircraft and is typically a separate compartment away from the cabin area where passengers sit during flight. A cockpit door further separates the cockpit from the cabin area.

[0003] The cockpit door is closed and locked during flight. This allows the crew to focus on operating the aircraft and prevents unwanted personnel from entering the cockpit. However, the cockpit door can be opened during flight for various reasons. One situation is when the crew uses the lavatory located in the cabin area of ​​the aircraft. Other situations are when food and / or drinks prepared in the galley in the cabin area are served to the crew in the cockpit.

[0004] Opening the cockpit door can provide an opportunity for someone who should not be there to enter the cockpit. Once the cockpit door is opened, the person who should not be there may suddenly rush to the front of the aircraft and gain access to the cockpit. It is difficult for the crew working in the cabin area to react to this movement in a fast enough manner to close and lock the cockpit door.

[0005] There is a need for a device that can prevent people from rushing towards the cockpit. The device can prevent people from reaching the front of the aircraft or slow their movement so that the cockpit door can be closed and locked before the person reaches the cockpit.

[0006] Nothing herein is admitted to be prior art merely by inclusion in the Technical Field and / or Background sections unless explicitly stated otherwise. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present aspect relates to a deployable barrier in a vehicle cabin area, which vehicle cabin area may be, for example, an aircraft cabin lobby area, wherein the barrier is formed by deploying a deployable attendant seat assembly from a stowed position to a deployed position, wherein the barrier in the deployed position is configured to prevent persons from passing from the cabin area (including from the lobby area) into a vehicle control compartment, which may be, for example, a cockpit in an aircraft.

[0008] The present invention relates to an aircraft cabin barrier, wherein the aircraft cabin barrier comprises: a deployable attendant seat assembly, wherein the deployable attendant seat assembly comprises: a deployable attendant seat; and a movable back panel having a first side of a movable back panel and a second side of a movable back panel. The first side of the movable back panel is fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, and wherein the movable back panel is configured to extend laterally from a retracted position of the movable back panel to a deployed position of the movable back panel. The aircraft cabin barrier also comprises an aircraft cabin first monument, the aircraft cabin first monument comprising an aircraft cabin first monument wall positioned adjacent to the movable back panel when the movable back panel is in the retracted position of the movable back panel. The aircraft cabin barrier also comprises a track assembly, the track assembly comprising a first track assembly component and a second track assembly component, the first track assembly component being fixedly attached to the first aircraft cabin monument wall, the second track assembly component being fixedly attached to the second side of the movable back panel, and the first track assembly component being configured to be movably engaged with the second track assembly component. The track assembly is configured to movably attach the movable back panel to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin, wherein the track assembly is further configured to control the movable back panel to move laterally relative to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin along a track path, wherein the track path extends between a movable back panel stowed position and a movable back panel deployed position, and wherein the track path further includes a track path initial position and a track path extended position. The movable back panel further includes a movable back panel thickness extending from the first side of the movable back panel to the second side of the movable back panel, wherein the movable back panel includes a through opening extending through the movable back panel thickness.

[0009] In another aspect, the track assembly includes a locking mechanism configured to retain the movable back plate at a selected position along the track path.

[0010] In another aspect, the selected location along the track path is a track path extension location.

[0011] In another aspect, the track path extended position corresponds to the movable back panel deployed position.

[0012] In another aspect, the movable back panel is positioned adjacent to the aircraft cabin first monument wall when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel stowed position.

[0013] In a further aspect, the movable back panel is substantially within the first aircraft cabin monument footprint in the movable back panel stowed position.

[0014] On the other hand, the movable back panel is integrally formed with the deployable attendant seat.

[0015] In another aspect, the track assembly first component is integrally formed with the aircraft cabin first monument wall.

[0016] In another aspect, the track assembly second member is integrally formed with the second side of the movable back plate.

[0017] In another aspect, the movable backpanel includes a movable backpanel height selected to leave a gap between a top edge of the movable backpanel and an aircraft cabin ceiling when the movable backpanel is in the movable backpanel deployed position, the gap comprising an average gap height from about 1 inch to about 6 inches.

[0018] In another aspect, the track assembly is configured to lock when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel deployed position and the track assembly is in the track path extended position.

[0019] In another aspect, the movable backpanel further includes a movable backpanel front vertical first edge and a movable backpanel rear vertical second edge, wherein the movable backpanel is configured to radially pivot at the movable backpanel rear vertical second edge when the movable backpanel is in the movable backpanel deployed position and the track assembly is in the track path extended position.

[0020] In a further aspect, the movable back panel front first vertical edge comprises a first mating component, the first mating component being configured to mate with a second mating component, the second mating component being located at an aircraft cabin second monument outer surface of an aircraft cabin second monument, wherein the aircraft cabin second monument outer surface is located at a selected distance from the aircraft cabin first monument wall and opposite the aircraft cabin aisle relative to the aircraft cabin first monument wall.

[0021] In another aspect, the aircraft cabin second monument comprises an extendable panel, wherein the extendable panel is configured to deploy from an extendable panel stowed position adjacent an outer surface of the aircraft cabin second monument to an extendable panel deployed position, wherein the extendable panel comprises a second mating component.

[0022] In another aspect, the second mating component is configured to mate with the first mating component in a locked configuration.

[0023] In another aspect, the extendable panel in the extendable panel deployed position is configured to engage the movable back panel in the moveable back panel deployed position at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

[0024] The present invention relates to an aircraft, the aircraft comprising an aircraft cabin, wherein the aircraft cabin comprises an aircraft cabin barrier, wherein the aircraft cabin barrier comprises a deployable attendant seat assembly, wherein the deployable attendant seat assembly comprises a deployable attendant seat, and a movable back panel having a first movable back panel side and a second movable back panel side, wherein the first movable back panel side is fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, and wherein the movable back panel is configured to extend laterally from a retracted movable back panel position to a retracted movable back panel position. The aircraft cabin barrier further comprises an aircraft cabin first monument, the aircraft cabin first monument comprising an aircraft cabin first monument wall positioned proximate to the movable back panel when the movable back panel is in the retracted movable back panel position. The aircraft cabin barrier further comprises a track assembly, wherein the track assembly comprises a first track assembly component and a second track assembly component, wherein the first track assembly component is fixedly attached to the first aircraft cabin monument wall, wherein the second track assembly component is fixedly attached to the second movable back panel side, and wherein the first track assembly component is configured to be movably engaged with the second track assembly component. The track assembly is configured to movably attach the movable back panel to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin, wherein the track assembly is further configured to control the movable back panel to move laterally relative to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin along a track path, wherein the track path extends between a movable back panel stowed position and a movable back panel deployed position, and wherein the track path further includes a track path initial position and a track path extended position. The movable back panel further includes a movable back panel thickness extending from a first side of the movable back panel to a second side of the movable track panel, wherein the movable back panel includes a through-hole extending through the movable back panel thickness.

[0025] Yet another aspect relates to an apparatus including a deployable attendant seat and a removable back panel having a removable back panel first side and a removable back panel second side, wherein the removable back panel first side is fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, wherein the removable back panel further includes a through opening extending from the removable back panel first side to the removable back panel second side. The apparatus further includes a track assembly component, wherein the track assembly component is fixedly attached to the removable back panel second side, and wherein the track assembly component is configured to mate with the track assembly second component.

[0026] On the other hand, the movable back panel is integrally formed with the deployable attendant seat.

[0027] In another aspect, the track assembly component is integrally formed with the second side of the movable back plate.

[0028] Yet another aspect relates to an aircraft including an aircraft cabin, the aircraft cabin including an apparatus including a deployable attendant seat and a movable back panel having a first movable back panel side and a second movable back panel side, wherein the first movable back panel side is fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, wherein the movable back panel further includes a through opening extending from the first movable back panel side to the second movable back panel side. The apparatus further includes a track assembly component, wherein the track assembly component is fixedly attached to the second movable back panel side, and wherein the track assembly component is configured to mate with the track assembly second component.

[0029] Another present aspect relates to a method of controlling passenger movement along an aisle in a cabin area of ​​an aircraft, the method comprising: prior to opening a cockpit door, moving a barrier to a closed position, wherein the cockpit is located on a first side of the barrier and a passenger section of the cabin area is located on a second side of the barrier, the barrier comprising a deployable attendant seat assembly, wherein the deployable attendant seat assembly comprises a deployable attendant seat, and a movable back panel having a first movable back panel side and a second movable back panel side, wherein the first movable back panel side is fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, and wherein the movable back panel is configured to extend laterally from a retracted movable back panel position to a retracted movable back panel position. The aircraft cabin barrier further comprises an aircraft cabin first monument, the aircraft cabin first monument comprising an aircraft cabin first monument wall positioned proximate to the movable back panel when the movable back panel is in the retracted movable back panel position. The aircraft cabin barrier further comprises a track assembly, the track assembly comprising a track assembly first component and a track assembly second component, the track assembly first component being fixedly attached to the aircraft cabin first monument wall, the track assembly second component being fixedly attached to the movable back panel second side, and the track assembly first component being configured to be movably engaged with the track assembly second component. The track assembly is configured to movably attach the movable back panel to the aircraft cabin first monument wall, wherein the track assembly is further configured to control the movable back panel to move laterally relative to the aircraft cabin first monument wall along a track path, wherein the track path extends between a movable back panel stowed position and a movable back panel deployed position, and wherein the track path further comprises a track path initial position and a track path extended position. The movable back panel further comprises a movable back panel thickness extending from the movable back panel first side to the movable track back panel second side, wherein the movable back panel comprises a through opening extending through the movable back panel thickness. The method also includes locking the barrier in the closed position and, after locking the barrier, opening a cockpit door and providing a driver with access to a front section of a cabin area, the front section of the cabin area being located at a first side of the barrier, and reclosing the cockpit door after providing the driver with access to the front section of the cabin area.

[0030] In another aspect, the method further includes monitoring a position of the barrier; and activating an indicator located in the cockpit when the barrier is in the closed position.

[0031] The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed can be achieved independently in various aspects or may be combined in other aspects, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Having thus generally described variations of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0033] Figure 1 is an illustration of a vehicle in the form of an aircraft according to aspects of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a cross section taken along line 2-2 of an aircraft cabin within an exemplary vehicle in the form of an aircraft according to aspects of the present invention shown in FIG.

[0035] Figure 3A is from Figure 1 A partial front view of a cockpit door and lavatory monument viewed from the lobby of an aircraft cabin within an exemplary vehicle in the form of an aircraft according to aspects of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3B is from Figure 1 A partial front view of a cockpit door and lavatory monument viewed from the lobby of an aircraft cabin within an exemplary vehicle in the form of an aircraft according to aspects of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 4A is a rear view of components of a deployable attendant seat assembly according to aspects of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 4B A view of a cabin section showing a lavatory and cockpit door according to aspects of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a track assembly in a mating configuration according to aspects of the present invention;

[0040] Fig. 6A yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a lobby in an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0041] Figure 6B yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a lobby in an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0042] Figure 6C is from Figure 1 A partial front view of a deployable attendant seat in a deployed position as viewed from a vestibule of an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0043] Fig. 7A yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a lobby in an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0044] Figure 7B yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a lobby in an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0045] Fig. 8A yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a lobby in an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 8B yes Figure 1 A partial top view of a lobby in an aircraft cabin within an exemplary aircraft according to aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Fig. 9 is a block diagram outlining a vehicle according to aspects of the present invention;

[0048] Fig.10 is a flow chart outlining a method according to aspects of the present invention;

[0049] Fig.11 is a flow chart outlining a method according to aspects of the present invention;

[0050] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of a monitoring system according to aspects of the present invention; and

[0051] Fig.13 is a schematic block diagram of a monitoring system according to aspects of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] According to various aspects of the present invention, an aircraft cabin barrier is disclosed to control and restrict access of personnel to a cockpit from a passenger cabin section or from a vestibule area. The barrier is formed by deploying a crew seat assembly from a stowed position proximate a wall of a monument to a deployed position extending away from the monument into the vestibule and across an aisle in the vestibule.

[0053] Aspects of the present invention provide significant advantages with respect to forming and using presently converted and modified attendant seat assemblies as additional barriers or secondary barriers for cockpits. Such advantages include, but are not limited to, using existing aircraft cabin structures to form the secondary barrier, so that little additional weight is added to an aircraft configured to include the barrier of the present disclosure as a secondary barrier. Furthermore, since only minimal hardware is required to convert an aircraft attendant seat to the presently disclosed deployable attendant seat assembly barrier, without adding significant weight or cost, the retrofit process configured to include / add the barrier of the present disclosure to an aircraft cabin and to an aircraft including the barrier is significantly simplified.

[0054] According to various aspects of the present invention, Figure 1 and Figure 2 A vehicle is shown in the form of an aircraft 100 comprising a fuselage 101 . Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of aircraft 100 taken along line 2-2. Figure 2 As shown, a cockpit 110 is located at the front or front section of the fuselage 101, and a cabin area 103 is located at the rear (also referred to herein as the "tail"). The cabin area 103 is equipped to accommodate passengers. The dimensions of the cockpit 110 and the cabin area 103 may vary depending on the aircraft 100. One or more doors 104 are provided for passengers to enter and exit the aircraft 100.

[0055] The cockpit 110 includes one or more crew seats 111 for crew members, including a pilot, a co-pilot, and a navigator. Various controls and instrument panels (not shown) used by the pilot and co-pilot to control the aircraft 100 are provided in the cockpit.

[0056] The cabin area 103 is located behind the cockpit 110 along the fuselage 101. The cabin area 103 includes a passenger section 121 having passenger seats 105 arranged in rows along one or more aisles 106. In some examples, including, for example, commercial airlines, the passenger seats 105 are distributed throughout the cabin area 103. In other examples, where the aircraft 100 is used for cargo transportation, a limited number of passenger seats 105 are located in the cabin area 103.

[0057] The cabin area 103 also includes a vestibule 120 located between the cockpit 110 and the passenger section 121. In some examples, the vestibule 120 includes crew seats 111a used by crew members such as flight attendants. When not in use, the crew seats 111a can be folded out of the way. The vestibule 120 includes one or more structures 112 mounted to structural members of the aircraft 100 within the fuselage 101. The structures 112 are functional units used during flight, examples of which include, but are not limited to, galleys, lavatories, and storage units. In some examples, the structures 112 are shaped and sized to extend from the floor 107 to the ceiling 108 of the cabin area 103 (at Figure 3A and Figure 3B In some examples, monument 112 extends from a wall 114 of fuselage 101 to aisle 106 . Figure 2 Also shown is an antechamber 120 which includes a pair of kitchen monuments 112a, 112b, a bathroom monument 112c and a storage monument 112d which may be, for example, a closet.

[0058] The cockpit door 110a separates the cockpit 110 from the cabin area 103, and specifically separates the cockpit 110 from the vestibule 120. The cockpit door 110a prevents unintended personnel from entering the cockpit 110 from the cabin area 103. Figure 2 Also shown is an example with an opening 113 formed between a pair of monuments 112b, 112d. The opening 113 may be aligned with the aisle 106 to facilitate the movement of passengers during boarding and departure. The cabin area 103 also includes an opening 113 for passengers and crew members to pass through when moving between the vestibule 120 and the passenger section 121. The opening 113 may be formed between various components such as the monuments 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d, the wall 114 of the fuselage 101, and the passenger seats 105.

[0059] Figure 3A and Figure 3B 1 is a view from within the general cabin area 103 and the vestibule 120 looking forward toward the closed cockpit door 110a. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the cockpit door 110a includes a cockpit door lock 110b configured to secure the cockpit door 110a when the cockpit door is closed. The cockpit door lock 110b may include various configurations for unlocking, such as a magnetic card reader and an input button. The viewing hole 110c enables the crew on the cockpit 110 to observe the cabin area 103 without opening the cockpit door 110a. In some examples, the cockpit door 110a is mounted in a frame that is mounted to one or more of the building 112, the floor 107, and the ceiling 108.

[0060] Figure 3Aand Figure 3B Also shown is a lavatory monument 112c, also referred to herein as an aircraft cabin first monument 140, which includes a lavatory door 134 and also includes an aircraft cabin first monument wall 132 to which is attached a deployable attendant seat assembly, which is shown in more detail and described more fully in subsequent figures presented herein. The crew seat 111a is shown in a stowed position and attached to a movable back panel, which is positioned proximate to the lavatory wall, referred to herein as an aircraft cabin first monument wall 132.

[0061] According to aspects of the invention, the attendant seat is fixedly attached to the back panel or configured to be integral with the back panel. The back panel is configured to remain movable relative to a first aircraft cabin monument wall (e.g., an aircraft lavatory monument wall shown in the accompanying drawings), and is therefore also referred to herein as a movable back panel. The attendant seat is combined with the movable back panel to form a deployable attendant seat assembly. When the deployable attendant seat assembly is in a deployed state (also referred to herein as a deployable attendant seat assembly deployed position), the attendant seat is combined with the fixedly attached movable back panel to be configured to serve as an aircraft cabin barrier as described herein. According to aspects of the present invention, the attendant seat portion of a deployable attendant seat assembly is configured to have a dual function: to serve as an attendant seat (at least when the attendant seat assembly is in a stowed configuration and proximate to a first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin), and also to serve as an aircraft cabin barrier when the deployable attendant seat assembly is moved into a deployable position across the aisle and the deployable attendant seat assembly is 1) locked in a deployed position at least proximate to a second architectural building of the aircraft cabin, or 2) received by the second architectural building of the aircraft cabin and engaged in a locked configuration with the second architectural building of the aircraft cabin.

[0062] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The movable connection between the deployable attendant seat assembly and the first architectural wall of the aircraft is shown. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 includes an attendant seat 126 a fixedly attached to a movable back panel first side 128 a of a movable back panel 128 . Figure 4AA view of a second side 128b of a movable back panel is also shown, which further includes a second track assembly component 129b fixedly attached. In some examples, the second track assembly component can be integrally formed with the movable back panel 128 as a single component. The movable back panel 128 also includes a first vertical edge 128d before the movable back panel and a second vertical edge 128e after the movable back panel. The movable back panel 128 can also include a movable back panel through-opening, which extends through the thickness of the movable back panel and extends from the first side 128a of the movable back panel to the second side 128b of the movable back panel. The movable back panel has a selected height "h". According to this aspect, when the movable back panel is moved into the deployed position to serve as a barrier, the movable back panel height "h" can be less than the distance from the aircraft cabin floor to the aircraft cabin ceiling, and a gap is left between the top edge of the movable back panel and the aircraft cabin ceiling. The gap that may exist between the top of the back panel and the ceiling in the deployed barrier position may be of any size, so long as the gap is small enough that a person cannot traverse the barrier through the gap. According to aspects of the invention, the gap formed may have a regular or irregular geometry, wherein the maximum width of the gap is less than about 1 foot, and further within a range from about 2 inches to about 8 inches.

[0063] When the deployable attendant seat assembly is in the stowed position, the movable back panel is movably engaged with and positioned proximate to the first monument wall of the aircraft cabin. Figure 4B As shown, the aircraft cabin first monument 140 may be a lavatory monument 112c, wherein the first monument 140 includes an aircraft cabin first monument wall 132 and a lavatory first monument door 134. The first monument wall 132 (against which the movable back panel 128 is positioned in the stowed configuration) also includes a fixedly attached track assembly first part 129a, which is sized and configured to mate with a track assembly second part 129b (such as a track assembly second part 129b) attached to the second side of the movable back panel (with the track portion attached) 128b. Figure 4A In some examples, the track assembly first component 129a can be integrally formed with the movable back plate 128 as a single component.

[0064] The movable back panel is movably attached to the aircraft cabin monument wall by engagement and directional cooperation of the track assembly first component 129a and the track assembly second component 129b to form a mating track assembly 129 . Figure 5A non-limiting example of a track assembly 129 is shown, showing the cooperation of a track assembly first component 129a and a track assembly second component 129b (e.g., their cooperation engages and cooperates). Either or both of the track assembly first component 129a and the track assembly second component 129b may also include one or more cooperating locking features 130, so that the track assembly 129 can be extended along the track path from an initial position to an extended position at one or more extension lengths, so that it can be retained and locked to a selected track path length. The selected track path length is a length configured to be sufficient to extend across an aircraft aisle so that the deployable attendant seat assembly can contact and be received by the aircraft cabin second building across the aisle from the aircraft cabin first building, or can be otherwise positioned adjacent to the aircraft cabin second building for the purpose of establishing a deployable attendant seat assembly barrier door.

[0065] According to aspects of the present invention, the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 can be deployed to form a barrier (such as, for example, an aircraft cabin barrier) within, for example, an aircraft cabin, and form: 1) a lockable barrier itself, which extends from a stowed position in communication with a first aircraft structure and is sufficiently strong (without securing the leading edge of the back panel to another structure) to hinder the passage of personnel along the aircraft aisle; 2) a lockable barrier that contacts a second aircraft structure across the aisle from the first aircraft structure; and / or 3) a lockable barrier that contacts a panel in communication with a second aircraft structure from the first aircraft structure across the aisle, wherein the panel extends from the second aircraft structure and remains in contact with the second aircraft structure.

[0066] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig. 8A and Figure 8B A non-limiting example of establishing a cabin barrier according to aspects of the present invention is shown, the barrier being established by deploying a deployable attendant seat assembly from a stowed position to a deployed position. Fig. 6A Show that it can be presented at least Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3B A top view of a vestibule 120 in the form of an aircraft cabin of an aircraft of the type shown in FIG. Fig. 6A As shown, a plurality of aircraft cabin monuments 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d are located in an aircraft lobby 120. In one example, as shown in FIG. Fig. 6AAs further shown, the lavatory monument 112c is also referred to as the aircraft cabin first monument 140, and the galley monument 112b is also referred to as the aircraft second monument 144. The deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is shown in a stowed position and positioned proximate to the aircraft first monument wall 132. When it is desired to establish an additional barrier to prevent access to an area within the vestibule 120 (e.g., to establish a barrier that prevents access to the vestibule 120 and prevents access to the cockpit door 110a of the cockpit 110), the deployable attendant seat barrier can be extended from the stowed position to the aircraft cabin first monument wall 132. Fig. 6A The stowed position shown in a direction substantially parallel to the aircraft first monument wall 132 is laterally movable to a position that blocks or otherwise obstructs the passage of personnel through the vestibule 120 in a forward direction by crossing the aisle 106. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B 129c, the track assembly that movably couples the deployable attendant seat assembly to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin facilitates the lateral movement of the movable back panel and the entire deployable attendant seat assembly along the track path from the track path initial position in the stowed position to the track path extension position. In the track path extension position, the track assembly first component and the track assembly second component that cooperate to form the track assembly reach a maximum track extension position and engage with each other to achieve an articulated connection that enables the deployable attendant seat assembly to pivot about the track assembly hinge 129c.

[0067] like Figure 6B As shown, the deployable attendant seat assembly is configured to pivot toward the second aircraft structure 144 (according to this example, as shown in FIG. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B 106, the second aircraft monument is located in the aircraft cabin lobby across the aisle 106 at a position diagonally arranged relative to the first aircraft monument) until contact or near contact with the second aircraft monument is achieved. If a locking arrangement between the deployable attendant seat assembly and the second aircraft monument is selected, the movable back panel front vertical first edge 128d of the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 may include a front first edge mating component 128f configured to mate with the second mating component 144a of the second aircraft monument 144. In one example, as Figure 6B As shown, the first mating component 128f and the second mating component 144a can be locked together. Figure 6BAs shown, when the first edge mating component 128f contacts the second mating component 144a (and, if optional, locks together), the circuit can be completed and the monitoring device can send a signal to, for example, a controller or other device that communicates with one or more of these mating components 128f, 144a, which is configured to activate an indicator (which can be, for example, in the cockpit) to alert personnel and / or crew that the deployable crew seat assembly has been successfully deployed into a barrier configuration, which can be a locked barrier configuration.

[0068] Figure 6C The deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is shown deployed into a deployed position to engage with the aircraft second monument 144, wherein the movable back panel front vertical first edge 128d and the front first edge mating component 128f are in contact with the second mating component 144a of the aircraft second monument 144. The movable back panel may include a movable back panel through-opening (not shown) extending through the thickness of the movable back panel to enable visual observation of the portion of the vestibule now blocked by the barrier and located in front of the established barrier from a position behind the deployed seat assembly barrier. Such a through-opening may also be selected not to be, because a line of sight and visual access can be established from the rear of the barrier to the area in front of the barrier due to the gap existing between the upper edge of the barrier and the ceiling.

[0069] In addition, if Figure 6B As shown, when the movable back panel 128 is fully deployed to the barrier configuration by "sliding" inwardly as far as possible via the track assembly, the movable back panel rear vertical second edge 128e (e.g., "outer edge") of the movable back panel 128 may include a vertical "flat" area 128e' that facilitates pivotal movement of the movable back panel to the fully deployed position (if necessary).

[0070] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B Yet another aspect of the invention is shown wherein a deployable attendant seat assembly is deployed and configured to form or otherwise establish a barrier across an aircraft aisle by becoming part of or otherwise forming a deployable barrier that contacts a panel in communication with a second aircraft monument, wherein the second aircraft monument is opposite the aisle from a first aircraft monument, wherein the panel extends a selected distance from the second aircraft monument and remains in contact with the second aircraft monument. Fig. 7A As shown, a plurality of aircraft cabin monuments 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d are located in an aircraft lobby 120. In one example, as shown in FIG. Fig. 7AAs further shown in FIG. 1 , the lavatory monument 112c is also referred to as the aircraft cabin first monument 140, and the galley monument 112a is also referred to as the aircraft second monument 144. The deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is shown in a stowed position and is positioned adjacent to the aircraft first monument wall 132. When it is desired to establish an additional barrier to prevent access to an area within the vestibule 120 (e.g., to establish a barrier to prevent a person from entering the vestibule 120 along the aisle to the entrance of the cockpit door 110a leading to the cockpit 110), the deployable attendant seat barrier is removed from the stowed position. Fig. 7A The stowed position shown in FIG. 1 in a direction substantially parallel to the aircraft first monument wall 132 is laterally moved to a position capable of obstructing or otherwise blocking the passage of personnel through the vestibule 120 in a forward direction by crossing the aisle 106 . Fig. 7A Also shown is an extendable second monument panel 146 in communication with second aircraft monument 144 and in a stowed position in which second monument panel 146 may be proximate to or may be secured to an outer surface and / or outer wall of second aircraft monument 144 .

[0071] Despite Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The track assembly that movably couples the deployable attendant seat assembly to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin facilitates the lateral movement of the movable back panel and the entire deployable attendant seat assembly along the track path from a track path initial position in the stowed position to a track path extended position. In the track path extended position, the track assembly first component and the track assembly second component that cooperate to form the track assembly reach a maximum track extension position and can be engaged with each other to achieve an articulated connection that enables the deployable attendant seat assembly to pivot about a hinge. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The aspect of the invention shown, moves to the deployed position ( Figure 7B The deployable attendant seat assembly of FIG. 1 does not need to pivot about a hinge.

[0072] like Figure 7B As shown, the deployable attendant seat assembly in the deployed position is configured to pass through the aisle 106 toward the aircraft second building 144 (ie, according to this example, such as Fig. 7A and Figure 7BThe second monument is shown in FIG. 1 , which is located in the aircraft cabin lobby at a position substantially opposite the aisle 106 relative to the first aircraft monument) until it contacts or comes into close contact with the second aircraft monument panel 146, which has been deployed and can, for example, pivot about the second monument panel hinge 146a (for example, the second aircraft monument panel is deployed or moved from a folded state to a deployed state) and moves away from the second aircraft monument 144. If the locking arrangement between the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 and the second aircraft monument panel 146 is selected, the movable back panel front vertical first edge 128d of the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 can include a front first edge mating component 128f configured to mate with the second mating component 144a of the second aircraft monument 144.

[0073] In one example, if Figure 7B As shown, the first mating component 128f and the second mating component 144a can be locked together. In one example, when the first mating component 128f contacts the second mating component 144a (and, if optional, locks together), the circuit can be completed, and the monitoring device can send a signal to, for example, a controller or other device that communicates with one or more of these mating components, which is configured to activate an indicator (which can be, for example, in the cockpit) to alert the personnel and / or crew that the deployable attendant seat assembly has been successfully deployed into the barrier configuration, which can be a locked barrier configuration.

[0074] In another example, Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The deployable attendant seat assembly is shown deployed and configured to form or otherwise establish a barrier across an aircraft aisle by becoming part of or otherwise forming a deployable barrier that contacts a panel in communication with a second aircraft monument, wherein the second aircraft monument is opposite the aisle from a first aircraft monument, wherein the panel extends a selected distance from the second aircraft monument and remains in contact with the second aircraft monument. Fig. 8A As shown, a plurality of aircraft cabin monuments 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d are located in an aircraft lobby 120. In one example, as shown in FIG. Fig. 8A As further shown in FIG. 1 , the lavatory monument 112 c is also referred to as an aircraft cabin first monument 140 , and the galley monument 112 a is also referred to as an aircraft second monument 144 .

[0075] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The kitchen structures 112a, 144 shown are different from Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The construction of the kitchen building shown. That is, Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The illustrated galley building footprints 112a, 144 are different from Fig. 7A and Figure 7B Kitchen structure footprint shown. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The larger galley footprint shown in FIG. 1 enables a portion of the galley monument wall to be located at a point substantially perpendicular to and in contact with the deployable crew seat assembly in the deployed position, thereby avoiding Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The presence of a second building panel is presented in.

[0076] like Fig. 8A As shown, the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is shown in the stowed position and is positioned adjacent to the aircraft first architectural wall 132. When it is desired to establish additional barriers to prevent access to the area within the vestibule 120 (e.g., to establish a barrier to prevent a person from entering the vestibule 120 forward along the aisle 106 and toward the cockpit door 110a of the cockpit 110), the deployable attendant seat barrier can be extended from the stowed position. Fig. 7A The aircraft 100 is shown in a stowed position in a direction substantially parallel to the aircraft first monument wall 132 and is laterally movable to a deployed position in which it is capable of blocking and otherwise obstructing personnel from traversing the vestibule 120 in a forward direction across the aisle 106 .

[0077] Despite Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The track assembly that movably couples the deployable attendant seat assembly to the first architectural wall of the aircraft cabin facilitates the lateral movement of the movable back panel and the entire deployable attendant seat assembly along the track path from a track path initial position in the stowed position to a track path extended position. In the track path extended position, the track assembly first component and the track assembly second component that cooperate to form the track assembly reach a maximum track extension position and can be engaged with each other to achieve an articulated connection that enables the deployable attendant seat assembly to pivot about a hinge. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The aspect of the invention shown, moves to the deployed position ( Figure 8B The deployable attendant seat assembly of FIG. 1 does not need to pivot about a hinge.

[0078] like Figure 8B As shown, the deployable attendant seat assembly in the deployed position is configured to pass through the aisle 106 toward the aircraft second building 144 (according to this example, such as Fig. 8A and Figure 8B106, the second monument is located in the aircraft cabin lobby at a position substantially opposite the aisle 106 relative to the aircraft first monument) until it contacts or comes into close contact with the aircraft second monument 144. If a locking arrangement between the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 and the aircraft second monument 144 is selected, the movable back panel front vertical first edge 128d of the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 may include a front first edge mating component 128f configured to mate with the second mating component 144a of the aircraft second monument 144.

[0079] In one example, if Figure 8B As shown, the first mating component 128f and the second mating component 144a can be locked together. According to aspects of the present invention, when the first mating component 128f contacts (and, if optional, locks together) the second mating component 144a of the second aircraft structure 144, a circuit can be completed, and the monitoring device can send a signal to, for example, a controller or other device that communicates with one or more of these mating components, which is configured to activate an indicator (which can be, for example, in the cockpit) to alert personnel and / or crew that the deployable attendant seat assembly has been successfully deployed into a barrier configuration, which can be a locked barrier configuration.

[0080] although Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig. 8A , Figure 8B Not shown, the movable back panel 128 of the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 includes a movable back panel through-opening 128c extending through the thickness of the movable back panel (from the first side of the movable back panel to the second side of the movable back panel) to enable visual observation of the portion of the vestibule now blocked by the barrier and positioned forward of the established barrier from a position rearward of the deployed seat assembly barrier.

[0081] Fig. 91 is a block diagram 150 further illustrating aspects of the invention, wherein a vehicle 100, which may be in the form of an aircraft, includes an interior area 102 within a fuselage containing an operations center which may be a cockpit when the vehicle is in the form of an aircraft. The vehicle also includes a main cabin area 103, which further includes a deployable attendant seat barrier 126. According to aspects of the invention, the deployable attendant seat barrier includes an attendant seat 126a fixedly attached to a back panel 128, the back panel having an attached track assembly component, which may be in the form of a component of a cooperating slide, guide, runner, etc., and is configured to engage or enter a cooperative configuration with a track assembly component located on a first aircraft monument to which the back panel is then movably engaged. The deployable attendant seat handle is understood to also include a component of a locking device, which may be a movable back panel front first edge mating component 128f configured to engage with, for example, a second mating component of a second aircraft cabin monument. The deployable attendant seat assembly may also include a component of a monitoring circuit 152 that is configured to send a signal to, for example, a controller or other device that communicates with one or more of these mating components, the signal being configured to activate an indicator 154 (which may be located, for example, within the cockpit 110) to alert an individual and / or crew member that the deployable attendant seat assembly has been successfully deployed to a barrier configuration, which may be a locked barrier configuration.

[0082] Fig.10 and Fig.11 is a flow chart outlining a method according to aspects of the invention. Fig.10A method 200 of controlling passenger movement along an aisle in a cabin area of ​​an aircraft is summarized, the method comprising, prior to opening a cockpit door, moving a barrier to a closed position (step 202), wherein a cockpit is located on a first side of the barrier and a passenger section of the cabin area is located on a second side of the barrier, the barrier comprising a deployable attendant seat assembly, wherein the deployable attendant seat assembly comprises a deployable attendant seat and a movable back panel having a first movable back panel side and a second movable back panel side, wherein the first side of the movable back panel is fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, and wherein the movable back panel is configured to extend laterally from a movable back panel stowed position to a movable back panel deployed position. The aircraft cabin barrier further comprises an aircraft cabin first monument, the aircraft cabin first monument comprising an aircraft cabin first monument wall positioned proximate to the movable back panel when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel stowed position. The aircraft cabin barrier further comprises a track assembly, the track assembly comprising a track assembly first component and a track assembly second component, the track assembly first component being fixedly attached to the aircraft cabin first monument wall, the track assembly second component being fixedly attached to the movable back panel second side, and the track assembly first component being configured to movably engage with the track assembly second component. The track assembly is configured to movably attach the movable back panel to the aircraft cabin first monument wall, wherein the track assembly is further configured to control lateral movement of the movable back panel relative to the aircraft cabin first monument wall along a track path, wherein the track path extends between a movable back panel stowed position and a movable back panel deployed position, and wherein the track path further comprises a track path initial position and a track path extended position. The movable back panel further comprises a movable back panel thickness extending from the movable back panel first side to the movable back panel second side, wherein the movable back panel comprises a through opening extending through the movable back panel thickness. The method also includes locking the barrier in the closed position (step 204), and after locking the barrier, opening the cockpit door (step 206) and providing access to a front section of the cabin area to the driver, wherein the front section of the cabin area is located at a first side of the barrier, and after providing access to the front portion of the cabin area, reclosing the cockpit door (step 208). Fig.10 Optionally also includes returning the deployed (deployable) attendant seat assembly from the barrier configuration to the stowed position by moving the barrier to the deployed position (step 210).

[0083] Fig.11 An overview includes Fig.10The method 300 of the steps described in the method 200 shown in FIG. 1 and further includes monitoring the position of the deployable attendant seat assembly in the barrier configuration (step 302) after reclosing the cockpit door (step 208), and when the crew safety seat assembly is fully deployed, activating an indicator, such as may be located in the cockpit, to confirm that the deployable attendant seat assembly in the deployed configuration (e.g., configured to form a barrier) is in the closed position (step 304). The method described herein may be used in conjunction with a deployable attendant seat assembly, a vehicle cabin including a deployable attendant seat assembly, and a cabin including a deployable attendant seat assembly of the type described herein, such as at least in Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5 , Fig. 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Fig. 8A , Figure 8B and Fig. 9 The means of transport shown.

[0084] According to aspects of the present invention, the barrier that is established can act as a secondary barrier to prevent people in the passenger section of the aircraft 100 from moving into the vestibule 120 and entering the cockpit 110. In some examples, the barrier acts to slow down the movement of people into the vestibule 120. The barrier delays the time for passengers who should not enter to enter the area in front of the barrier that has been deployed and established, because the person who should not enter needs to break the barrier or otherwise move the barrier to the open position. This time delay enables the crew to move into the cockpit 110 and fix the cockpit door 110a. The cockpit door 110a is safer than the barrier and can prevent people from reaching the cockpit 110.

[0085] As stated herein, aircraft 100 may be equipped with Fig.12 and Fig.13. The monitoring system 500 receives signals from the sensor 512 at the cockpit door 110a and the sensor 510 at the barrier. The monitoring system 500 provides the status of the cockpit door 110a and the barrier to the crew in the cockpit 110. This prevents the cockpit door 110a from opening when the barrier is in the open position. The sensor 210 senses the position of the barrier and the sensor 512 senses the position of the cockpit door 110a. The control unit 501 receives signals from the sensors 510, 512 and monitors the position. An indicator 509 such as a light or an audible alarm is located in the cockpit 110. Before opening the cockpit door 110a, the crew checks the status of the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 moving into the barrier configuration to form a barrier. If the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is in a barrier position (e.g., a deployed configuration, in which the deployed attendant seat assembly is configured as a barrier), the cockpit door 110a can be opened. This allows the crew to access the vestibule 120 of the cabin area 103, such as to use the lavatory. If the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is not in a fully engaged barrier position (e.g., in an "open" or not fully engaged barrier position), the cockpit door 110a remains closed. This prevents people who may be in the vestibule 120 from entering the cockpit 110.

[0086] In some examples, the control unit 501 controls the lock 540 on the cockpit door 110a. When the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 is in the open position, the control unit 501 keeps the lock 540 engaged. When the deployable attendant seat assembly is a barrier and is in the fully closed position, the control unit 501 disengages the lock 540 and allows it to open.

[0087] The control unit 501 monitors the status and operation of the cockpit door 110a. Fig.13 As shown, the control unit 501 includes a processing circuit 502 and a memory circuit 503. The processing circuit 502 controls the overall operation of the monitoring according to the program instructions stored in the memory circuit 503. The processing circuit 502 may include one or more circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, hardware, or a combination thereof. The memory circuit 503 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions (such as a computer program product), which configures the processing circuit 502 to implement one or more of the techniques discussed herein. The memory circuit 503 may include different memory devices, such as, for example, read-only memory and flash memory.

[0088] The control unit 501 includes a communication circuit 508 that provides communication functionality with the sensors 512, 510. The communication circuit 508 may be configured to communicate unidirectionally with the sensors 512, 510 or bidirectionally with the sensors 512, 510. The control unit 501 may also communicate with other systems on the aircraft 100, such as a flight control system that controls the operation of the aircraft during flight.

[0089] The user interface 504 enables the crew to monitor the status. The user interface 504 may include one or more input devices 506, such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, a touch pad, a scroll ball, and a joystick. The user interface 504 may also include one or more displays 205 for displaying information. The display 505 may be located in one or more of the cockpit 110 and the vestibule 120.

[0090] Indicator 509 provides a visual and / or audible indication of the status of one or both of cockpit door 110 and deployable attendant seat assembly 126. Indicator 509 may be a separate device or may be incorporated within user interface 504, such as a display icon on display 505.

[0091] In one example, the lock 540 includes a metal strip extending along one side (e.g., lateral side) of the outer side. The lock 540 also includes an electromagnetic locking device that engages with the metal strip to secure the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 in the closed / barrier position. The crew can unlock the lock 540 from the front side and enable the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 to be moved back to the raised (e.g., non-barrier) position. In the event of a power outage, the lock 540 is configured to disengage to provide for moving the deployable attendant seat assembly 126 from the barrier position to the "non-barrier" open position.

[0092] As used herein, the term "substantially" means that a particular characteristic, parameter or value need not be achieved exactly. Rather, deviations or variations (including, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement precision limitations, and other factors known to those skilled in the art) may occur in an amount that does not interfere with the effect that the characteristic is intended to provide.

[0093] Although a vehicle in the form of an aircraft is shown in the figures, aspects of the present invention may be incorporated to provide an improved barrier that is incorporated into a deployable attendant seat assembly in a passenger vehicle, including an aircraft, a rotorcraft, a marine vehicle, a land vehicle, an air cushion vehicle, and combinations thereof.

[0094] Of course, without departing from the essential features of the present disclosure, aspects of the present invention may be implemented in other ways than those specifically set forth herein. The aspects of the present invention are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and all changes falling within the meaning and equivalent range of the appended claims are intended to be included therein.

Claims

1. An aircraft cabin barrier (126), comprising: A deployable attendant seat assembly (126), the deployable attendant seat assembly comprising: A deployable crew seat (126a); a movable back panel (128) having a movable back panel first side (128a) and a movable back panel second side (128b), the movable back panel first side being fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, the movable back panel being configured to be laterally extendable from a movable back panel stowed position to a movable back panel deployed position; An aircraft cabin first monument (140) comprising an aircraft cabin first monument wall (132) positioned adjacent to the movable back panel when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel stowed position; a track assembly (129), the track assembly comprising a first track assembly component (129a) and a second track assembly component (129b), the first track assembly component being fixedly attached to the first aircraft cabin building wall, the second track assembly component being fixedly attached to the second side of the movable back panel, the first track assembly component being configured to be movably engaged with the second track assembly component; as well as wherein the track assembly is configured to enable the movable back panel to be movably attached to the first building wall of the aircraft cabin, and the track assembly is further configured to control the movable back panel to move laterally relative to the first building wall of the aircraft cabin along a track path, the track path extending between a stowed position of the movable back panel and an extended position of the movable back panel, the track path further comprising a track path initial position and a track path extended position; and Wherein, the movable backplate includes a movable backplate thickness extending from the first side of the movable backplate to the second side of the movable backplate, and the movable backplate includes a through opening (128c) extending through the movable backplate thickness.

2. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The movable back panel is substantially within a first aircraft cabin monument footprint in the movable back panel stowed position.

3. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The movable back panel is integrally formed with the deployable attendant seat.

4. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The movable back panel height of the movable back panel is selected to leave a gap between the top edge of the movable back panel and the aircraft cabin ceiling when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel deployed position, the gap having an average gap height of about 1 inch to about 6 inches.

5. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The track assembly is configured to lock when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel deployed position and the track assembly is in the track path extended position.

6. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The movable backplane also includes a movable backplane front vertical first edge and a movable backplane rear vertical second edge, and the movable backplane is configured to radially pivot at the movable backplane rear vertical second edge when the movable backplane is in the movable backplane deployed position and the track assembly is in the track path extended position.

7. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The movable back panel front vertical first edge comprises a first mating component, which is configured to mate with a second mating component, which is located at an aircraft cabin second monument outer surface of an aircraft cabin second monument, the aircraft cabin second monument outer surface being located at a selected distance from the aircraft cabin first monument wall and opposite the aircraft cabin aisle with respect to the aircraft cabin first monument wall.

8. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1, wherein: The movable backplate includes a movable backplate thickness extending from the movable backplate first side to the movable backplate second side, the movable backplate including a through opening (128c) extending through the movable backplate thickness.

9. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 7, wherein: The aircraft cabin second monument comprises an extendable panel configured to be deployed from an extendable panel stowed position adjacent an outer surface of the aircraft cabin second monument to an extendable panel deployed position, the extendable panel comprising the second mating component.

10. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 7, wherein: The second mating component is adapted to mate with the first mating component in a locked configuration.

11. The aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 9, wherein: The extendable panel in the extendable panel deployed position is configured to engage the movable back panel in the movable back panel deployed position at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

12. An aircraft cabin comprising an aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 1.

13. An aircraft comprising an aircraft cabin barrier according to claim 11.

14. A device (126), comprising: Crew seat (126a); a movable back panel (128) having a movable back panel first side (128a) and a movable back panel second side (128b), the movable back panel first side being fixedly attached to the attendant seat, the movable back panel being configured to be movable from a movable back panel stowed position to a movable back panel deployed position, the movable back panel being positioned adjacent to a first architectural wall (132) of the aircraft cabin when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel stowed position; A track assembly (129), the track assembly comprising: a first track assembly mating component (129a), the first track assembly mating component being fixedly attached to the first aircraft cabin building wall; a second track assembly mating component (129b), the second track assembly mating component being fixedly attached to the second side of the movable back panel, the first track assembly mating component being configured to movably engage with the second track assembly mating component; and The track assembly is configured to movably attach the movable back panel to the first building wall of the aircraft cabin, and the track assembly is further configured to control the movable back panel to move laterally relative to the first building wall of the aircraft cabin along a track path, wherein the track path extends between a stowed position of the movable back panel and an extended position of the movable back panel, and the track path includes a track path initial position and a track path extended position.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein: The track assembly includes a locking mechanism to retain the movable back panel in a selected track path extension position.

16. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: The movable back panel is configured to radially pivot when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel deployed position and the track assembly is in the track path extended position.

17. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: The movable back panel is integrally formed with the attendant seat.

18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein: The movable backplate includes a movable backplate thickness, the movable backplate including a movable backplate through-opening (128c) configured to extend through the movable backplate thickness.

19. An aircraft cabin comprising a device according to claim 14.

20. An aircraft comprising an apparatus according to claim 14.

21. A method (200) of controlling the movement of passengers along an aisle within a cabin area of ​​an aircraft, the method comprising: A barrier is moved to a closed position (202) prior to opening a cockpit door, wherein the cockpit is located on a first side of the barrier and a passenger section of the cabin area is located on a second side of the barrier, the barrier comprising: Foldable crew seats; and a movable back panel fixedly attached to the deployable attendant seat, the movable back panel being configured to be movable from a movable back panel stowed position to a movable back panel deployed position, the movable back panel being positioned adjacent to a first monument wall of the aircraft cabin of the aircraft cabin when the movable back panel is in the movable back panel stowed position; A track assembly, the track assembly comprising a first track assembly mating component and a second track assembly mating component, the first track assembly mating component being fixedly attached to a first building wall of an aircraft cabin, the second track assembly mating component being fixedly attached to a second side of a movable back panel, the first track assembly mating component being configured to be movably engaged with the second track assembly mating component to form the track assembly, the track assembly further comprising a track path extending from a track path initial position when the movable back panel is in a retracted position of the movable back panel to a track path extended position when the movable back panel is in an extended position of the movable back panel, the track assembly further comprising a locking mechanism for holding the movable back panel at a selected track path position; locking the barrier in the closed position (204); After locking the barrier, opening the cockpit door and providing the crew with access to a front section of the cabin area (206), the front section of the cabin area being located at a first side of the barrier; and After providing the crew with access to the front section of the cabin area, the cockpit door (208) is reclosed.

22. The method (300) of claim 21, further comprising: monitoring the position of the barrier (302); as well as When the barrier is in the closed position, an indicator (304) located in the cockpit is activated.

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