Aircraft cabin

Abstract

A double bed compartment (5) for an aircraft cabin (3) and an aircraft cabin comprising a double bed compartment are also disclosed. The double bed compartment has two passenger gateways (9) and two passenger seats (31) positioned next to each other side by side. In some embodiments, the double bed cabin has an upright privacy screen (7c) movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. In the deployed position, the privacy screen forms a wall that divides the double bed bay into separate individual bays, each bay being accessible via one of the gateways. In some embodiments, each passenger seat may move independently of another seat or pairs of seats may move together in synergy. In some embodiments, the double bed cabin has a wall (7b) along an aisle (51) of the aircraft cabin, the wall defining two gateways, and the wall being curved outwardly and forming two regions on which passengers can stand between the seats and the gateways.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a passenger cabin area (or cabin) in an aircraft.

[0002] The invention relates to an aircraft cabin (or aircraft cabin) having at least one passenger cabin zone.

[0003] It should be noted that the terms “aircraft,” “aircraft,” and “aircraft” are used interchangeably herein. Background Art

[0004] Commercial aircraft cabins include passenger cabin areas, such as those found in first class cabins.

[0005] International application PCT / SG2005 / 000042 (WO2005 / 080196) in the name of the applicant discloses such an aircraft cabin having a passenger cabin area, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] WO2005 / 080196 discloses an aircraft cabin having an outer row of passenger cabin zones and an inner row of passenger cabin zones, the cabin zones in each row being spaced apart in the longitudinal extension direction of the aircraft. Each cabin zone comprises a wall, the wall defining the cabin zone space and accessible via a doorway in one of the walls, each cabin zone comprising a seat for a passenger and a separated bed. The bed is in a double folding configuration, and when not in the bed configuration position in the cabin zone, it can be accommodated in a cavity in the wall of the cabin zone. The outer row is separated from the inner row by a longitudinally extending aisle. The outer row is positioned along the opposite side of the aircraft, wherein the aircraft sidewall forms a section of the cabin zone wall for these rows. The inner row comprises at least one pair of adjacent passenger cabin zones, each cabin zone in the paired adjacent passenger cabin zones having a separated doorway providing access to an adjacent aisle.

[0007] WO2005 / 080196 discloses that at least one pair of adjacent cabins in an inner row can be combined to form a double bed cabin option for passengers. When the cabin is in a double cabin configuration, the beds in each cabin of the pair of adjacent cabins are positioned to form a double bed.

[0008] More specifically, WO2005 / 080196 discloses that at least one pair of cabin sections is separated by a dividing wall extending upward from the floor of the cabin section to about waist height. A top rail and a retractable shutter housed in the top rail are located above the dividing wall. The shutter can be pulled down to be positioned between the cabin sections so as to engage with a portion of the dividing wall, thereby completely separating the cabin section into two separate cabin sections. The shutter can also be retracted into the top rail, so that the cabin section can be converted from two separate cabin sections to a double bed cabin section.

[0009] International application PCT / SG2017 / 050475 (WO2019 / 059841), incorporated herein by reference, discloses another aircraft cabin in the name of the applicant, which includes a passenger cabin area including a double bed cabin area option for passengers.

[0010] WO2019 / 059841 discloses an aircraft cabin having an outer row of passenger cabin zones and an inner row of passenger cabin zones, the cabin zones in each row being spaced apart in the longitudinal extension direction of the aircraft. Each cabin zone comprises a wall defining a cabin zone space and accessible via a doorway in one of the walls, wherein each cabin zone comprises seats for passengers and a separated bed. The outer row is positioned along the opposite side of the aircraft, wherein the aircraft sidewall forms a section of the cabin zone wall for these rows. The inner row comprises at least one pair of adjacent passenger cabin zones, each of the paired adjacent passenger cabin zones having a separated doorway providing access to an adjacent aisle.

[0011] Each compartment section includes a storage box for storing the bed in a vertical orientation along the longer edges of the bed in a stowed position, wherein the bed is movable in the box between the stowed position and an operating position in which the bed defines a sleeping platform within the passenger space.

[0012] The dual cabin section option of WO2019 / 059841 comprises the two above-mentioned cabin sections separated by a common peripheral wall section between the cabin sections.

[0013] The common wall is an extendable / retractable wall such that the wall can be vertically extended or retracted between an upwardly extended position and a retracted position. The bed of the cabin area is positioned against the common wall. When the extendable / retractable wall is in the retracted position, the bed can be moved from the stowed position to the operating position and defines a double bed arrangement (or configuration) in the operating position.

[0014] The present invention provides an alternative to the passenger cabin area disclosed in WO2005 / 080196 and WO2019 / 059841.

[0015] The above description should not be regarded as an admission of common general knowledge. Summary of the invention

[0016] The present invention provides an aircraft cabin, which includes multiple passenger cabin areas, the multiple passenger cabin areas including (or containing) at least one double bed passenger cabin area, wherein the double bed cabin area is defined by the following components, namely a peripheral wall having two openings allowing entry and exit to the double bed cabin area, two passenger seats positioned side by side adjacent to each other, and an upright privacy screen, which is movable between (a) a retracted position and (b) a deployed position, wherein in the retracted position, the privacy screen is at least substantially stowed outside the double bed cabin area so that the movement of passengers in the cabin area is not restricted by the privacy screen, and in the deployed position, the privacy screen is located between the passenger seats in the double bed cabin area and divides the cabin area into two separate individual passenger cabin areas, the privacy screen forming a common wall between the separate individual cabin areas, and each separate individual cabin area is accessible via one of the openings.

[0017] Unlike the double bed compartments of WO2005 / 080196 and WO2019 / 059841, the double bed compartment described in the preceding paragraph does not require a dividing wall, which would otherwise take up valuable floor space and restrict passenger movement within the double bed compartment. Therefore, more floor space can be utilized when the privacy screen is in the stowed position.

[0018] When deployed, the privacy screen ensures passenger privacy in two separate individual passenger cabin areas.

[0019] When stowed, the complete absence of privacy screens in the double bed cabin area creates a fully integrated passenger space for two passengers. Each integrated space is fully accessible to the passengers in the space. Specifically, when the seat is not in the bed configuration, a passenger can walk from one side of the integrated space to the other.

[0020] Unlike the vertically movable privacy screens of the cabin area of ​​WO2005 / 08196 and WO2019 / 059841, the privacy screen is horizontally movable between a retracted position at least substantially outside the double bed cabin area and a deployed position in which the privacy screen is located between the passenger seats in the double bed cabin area. In practice, this usually (although not necessarily) means that the privacy screen moves forwards and backwards in the longitudinal extension direction of the aircraft from and towards the stowed retracted position.

[0021] The peripheral wall may include a cavity for receiving the privacy screen and thereby stowing the privacy screen in the retracted position.

[0022] The cavity may be positioned behind the passenger seat. However, the invention is not limited to this orientation, and by way of example, it is also conceivable that the cavity could be positioned in front of the passenger seat.

[0023] The privacy screen may include a plurality of upstanding panels that are movable independently of one another between retracted and deployed positions.

[0024] In the retracted position, the panels may be arranged in an overlapping arrangement outside the double bed compartment area, ie the panels are arranged side by side with a face of one panel facing a face of an adjacent panel.

[0025] In the deployed position, the panels may be arranged in an end-to-end arrangement, ie with side edges of adjacent panels touching, with each panel occupying a section of a common wall between separate individual compartments.

[0026] The privacy screen may include a plurality of upright panels that are interconnected and telescopic between a retracted position and a deployed position.

[0027] The height of the peripheral wall may be any suitable height.

[0028] For example, the height may be in the range of 1.5-1.9 m, typically 1.7 m.

[0029] The privacy screen may extend to the height of the peripheral wall adjacent the privacy screen.

[0030] However, the invention is not limited to this arrangement, and by way of example, it is also contemplated that the privacy screen may extend to a height that is less than or greater than the height of the peripheral wall.

[0031] The passenger cabin area may include at least one rail for supporting and guiding the privacy screen for movement between the passenger seats and between the retracted position and the deployed position.

[0032] The guide rail may be positioned at a height adjacent the peripheral wall of the privacy screen.

[0033] The passenger cabin area may comprise at least one lower rail on the floor of the cabin area. Suitably, the lower rail is recessed into the floor so that it does not form a tripping hazard to passengers.

[0034] The privacy screen may be electrically operated.

[0035] Alternatively, the privacy screen may be manually operated.

[0036] The present invention also provides an aircraft comprising the above-mentioned double bed passenger cabin area.

[0037] The present invention also provides a double bed passenger cabin area for an aircraft, the double bed cabin area being defined by the following components, namely a peripheral wall having two openings allowing entry and exit to the double bed cabin area, two passenger seats positioned side by side adjacent to each other, and an upright privacy screen, wherein the privacy screen is movable between (a) a retracted position and (b) a deployed position, wherein in the retracted position the privacy screen is at least substantially stowed outside the double bed cabin area so that passenger movement in the cabin area is not restricted by the privacy screen, and in the deployed position the privacy screen is located in the cabin area between the passenger seats and divides the double bed cabin area into two separate individual cabin areas, wherein the privacy screen forms a common wall between the two separate individual cabin areas, and each separate individual cabin area is accessible via one of the openings.

[0038] The present invention also provides an aircraft cabin, which includes a plurality of passenger seats, wherein the plurality of passenger seats include at least one pair of passenger seats positioned adjacent to each other and side by side, each passenger seat in the pair of passenger seats being adjustable between an upright position and a tilted position, each passenger seat in the pair of passenger seats being individually operable by a passenger to adjust the position of the seat independently of the other seat in the pair of seats, and the paired seats can also be operated together so that the positions of the paired seats can be adjusted simultaneously, thereby the two seats moving in coordination (or one after the other).

[0039] It should be noted that the arrangement described in the preceding paragraph is not limited to aircraft cabins having a double bed passenger cabin area.

[0040] The arrangement described in the two paragraphs above this paragraph provides passengers with flexibility in how they wish to operate their seats. The passenger seats in a pair of passenger seats can be operated individually, or they can be operated in coordination so that one passenger (for example) can operate both seats whereby the seats move together to the same tilt angle. This option of coordinated operation means that one passenger does not have to individually adjust his / her seat to match the angle of the seat of the other passenger in the pair.

[0041] The angle adjustment of the passenger seat in the pair of passenger seats can be remotely operated via a remote controller (or remote controller).

[0042] Suitably, the remote controller is capable of adjusting the angle of each passenger seat independently. The remote controller may comprise a single controller. Alternatively, the remote controller may comprise a plurality of controllers. The remote controller may comprise a wall mounted (or wall mounted) control panel. The control panel may be located on a peripheral wall of the cabin area. The remote controller may comprise a hand held controller. The hand held controller may be a wireless unit.

[0043] The passenger seat may have an inner armrest and an outer armrest, and at least one of the inner armrest and the outer armrest is height adjustable.

[0044] The terms "inside" and "outside" are understood herein to refer to a position relative to an aisle. For example, an "outside armrest" is an armrest of each seat that is positioned closer to an adjacent aisle of the cabin area.

[0045] When the passenger seat is in the upright position, the inner armrest can be lowered to create a two-seater sofa configuration.

[0046] The term "two-seater sofa configuration" is understood herein to mean the equivalent of a two-seater sofa formed by the seats.

[0047] When the passenger seat is in the reclined position, the inner and outer armrests can be lowered to create a double bed configuration.

[0048] The term "double bed configuration" is understood herein to mean the equivalent of a double bed formed by the seats.

[0049] At least one of the inner armrest and the outer armrest may be electrically operated, for example via an electric motor.

[0050] Alternatively, at least one of the inner and outer armrests may be pneumatically operated. This may be achieved by operation of an air compressor or by controlled release of compressed air from a storage tank to inflate an inflatable bladder (such as a balloon or bag) inside the armrest.

[0051] Alternatively, at least one of the inner and outer armrests may be hydraulically operated. This may be achieved by operation of a pump to pump fluid into an inflatable bladder (such as a balloon or bag-like member) inside the armrest.

[0052] The height of at least one of the inner armrest and the outer armrest may be adjustable via a remote controller.

[0053] At least one of the seats may have a backrest comprising a middle section and wing sections pivotably connected to the middle section such that the curvature of the backrest is adjustable.

[0054] The wing sections may be inflatable by operation of an air compressor or via the controlled release of compressed air from a storage tank to inflate an inflatable bladder (such as a balloon or bag) inside the wing sections.

[0055] Alternatively, the inflatable bladder may be inflated by injecting a fluid to inflate the bladder. In other words, the inflatable bladder may be hydraulically operated.

[0056] The above-described backrest arrangement is adapted to provide both a flat surface when in the double bed configuration and a curved surface when in the upright position.

[0057] The passenger compartment area may include a footrest (or ottoman) having a seat.

[0058] The term "footrest" is understood herein to mean a cushioned (or padded) seat, typically but not necessarily without a backrest or armrests, and typically but not necessarily configured to define a storage space, wherein the seat is hinged to form a lid to enclose the storage space.

[0059] When the seat is in the bed configuration, the footrest and seat can be configured to define a bed.

[0060] The footrest may include space for storing (or stowing) luggage.

[0061] The space may be located at a lower side of the seat of the footstool.

[0062] The footrest seat can be moved upward to allow access to the storage space.

[0063] Typically, the footrest is separate from the seat and located in front of and spaced from the seat. The seat of the footrest can be lifted upward to reveal the cabin luggage storage space below the seat. The passenger can access the storage space even when sitting in the seat (with the seat belt in the operating position). This design maximizes storage space and maintains a clean, minimalist design.

[0064] The ottoman seat can also be used as a "buddy" seat, which allows passengers to dine facing each other when the table is also deployed, with one passenger sitting in the seat and the other sitting on the ottoman. When the privacy screen is retracted, up to four passengers can enjoy a meal together.

[0065] The passenger compartment area may include a table movably connected to an arm extending from the peripheral wall. Suitably, the table can slide along guide rails on the arm.

[0066] The advantage of the table is that it is attached to the perimeter wall rather than to the floor or seats. This means that when the table is folded up there is no obstruction to passengers walking around the cabin area.

[0067] In some embodiments, the arm is telescopically movable.

[0068] The table may have several sections connected together so that the table is foldable to change from a compact table assembly to an expanded table assembly.

[0069] The present invention also provides an aircraft comprising the above-mentioned pair of passenger seats positioned side by side adjacent to each other.

[0070] The present invention also provides an aircraft cockpit, comprising:

[0071] (a) at least two outer rows of passenger cabin areas located on each side of the aircraft cabin, wherein each row is spaced apart in the longitudinal extension of the aircraft cabin, the aircraft side walls forming sections of the cabin areas of each row,

[0072] (b) two adjacent passenger compartment areas of at least one inner row,

[0073] (c) at least two aisles extending in said longitudinal extension direction and separating the bays in each row, so that each bay is accessible via one of said aisles,

[0074] as well as

[0075] (d) Each cabin zone includes walls defining the cabin zone space and a doorway allowing entry into the cabin zone space from one of the aisles, wherein each cabin zone includes at least seats for passengers configured to function as both seats and beds, and the walls along the aisles are outwardly curved walls forming an area between the seats and the doorway on which passengers can stand when the seats are in a bed configuration.

[0076] It should be noted that the arrangement described in the preceding paragraph is not limited to aircraft cabins having a double bed passenger cabin area.

[0077] Each bay may include a door movable between a closed position in which the door extends across and closes the doorway and an open position in which the door is away from the doorway.

[0078] The doorways of the cabin areas on the opposite side of the aisle may be misaligned whereby the doorways face the doorway wall on the opposite side of the aisle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0079] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0080] Figure 1 is a general layout diagram of an embodiment of an aircraft cabin according to the invention, which includes an embodiment of a passenger cabin area according to the invention, noting that the invention is not limited to these embodiments;

[0081] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exterior perspective view of the passenger cabin area is shown with the privacy screen in the deployed position;

[0082] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exterior perspective view of the passenger cabin area is shown with the privacy screen in the stowed position;

[0083] Figure 4A and Figure 4B yes Figure 1 An exterior perspective view of the passenger cabin area is shown with the privacy screen in a partially deployed position;

[0084] Figure 5 yes Figure 1An interior perspective view of the passenger cabin area is shown with the privacy screen in the stowed position;

[0085] Fig. 6A yes Figure 1 a front perspective view of a passenger seat shown with the backrest defining a flat surface;

[0086] Figure 6B yes Figure 1 a front perspective view of a passenger seat shown with the backrest defining a curved surface;

[0087] Fig. 7A yes Figure 1 a perspective view of the passenger cabin area shown with the table in the stowed position;

[0088] Figure 7B yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the passenger cabin area with both tables in both deployed and folded positions;

[0089] Figure 7C yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the passenger cabin area of ​​FIG. 1 with both tables in deployed and unfolded positions; and

[0090] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the outer row suite passenger cabin area is shown with the table in the deployed and extended positions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Figure 1 An aircraft cabin 3 is shown, comprising a plurality of passenger cabin zones 5 defining a multifunctional cabin space for passengers.

[0092] The cabin area 5 is designed so that the cabin area can be completely enclosed so that the passengers can have complete privacy.

[0093] The cabin area 5 is particularly (but not exclusively) designed for long-haul flights, during which passengers occupying the cabin area may wish to work, relax or sleep.

[0094] The cabin comprises outer rows 11a, 11c of cabin areas 5 and an inner row 11b comprising a double bed cabin area option formed by two adjacent cabin areas 5, wherein the cabin areas 5 of each row are spaced apart in the longitudinal extension direction of the aircraft and wherein the rows are separated by a longitudinally extending aisle 51.

[0095] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the number of bays 5; the number of rows 11a, 11b, 11c; and the number of aisles 51 shown in the figures.

[0096] The cabin areas 5 of each row 11a, 11b, 11c are accessible via an opening in the form of a doorway 9 in a wall 7b defining a corridor 51 (hereinafter referred to as "doorway wall 7b").

[0097] The doorway 9 is centrally located in the doorway wall 7b and divides the wall 7b into two equal sized sections (one section on each side of the wall 7b).It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to such a centrally located doorway arrangement.

[0098] The two outer rows 11a, 11c of the cabin sections 5 are located along opposite sides of the aircraft. The aircraft side walls 15 form the outer side walls of the cabin sections 5. The cabin sections 5 in each outer row 11a, 11c also include a wall 7a extending inwardly from the aircraft side walls 15. The wall 7a forms an end wall of the cabin section 5. The doorway wall 7b extends from the end wall 7a and forms the inner side wall of the cabin section 5. The aircraft side walls 15, the wall 7a and the doorway wall 7b together form the peripheral wall of each cabin section 5.

[0099] Each of the end walls 7a and the sections of the doorway wall 7b extending in opposite directions from the end wall 7a are arranged substantially (or essentially) in a T-shape.

[0100] The inner row 11b of cabin sections 5 comprises pairs of cabin sections 5 in a side-by-side relationship. These cabin sections 5 have a curved front wall 7d, a doorway wall 7b and an end wall 7a which together define the perimeter wall of the cabin section 5. The doorway wall 7b is bowed outwardly towards the aircraft side wall 15. The cabin sections 5 in each pair have a doorway 9 leading to an aisle 51 on the opposite side of the inner row 11b. The curved front wall 7d and the bowed door wall 7d result in an egg-shaped appearance of the cabin section 5 when viewed in plan.

[0101] It should be noted that the aircraft cabin 3 may comprise more than one inner row 11 b of pairs of cabin sections 5 , wherein these pairs of cabin sections are spaced apart in the longitudinal extension direction of the aircraft.

[0102] The cabin areas 5 in the inner row 11b are identical in terms of furniture and layout to the cabin areas 5 in the outer rows 11a and 11c, except that the outer rows 11a, 11c have different table assemblies (this will be explained later in the description).

[0103] The cabins 5 in the inner row 11b are separated by upright privacy screens 7c which are capable of being in a deployed (or extended) position within the cabin 5 and in a cavity 6 (also described as a "slot" - see Figure 1 and other figures), so that the cabin area 5 can be converted from a separated single cabin area 5 into an open double bed cabin area, as further described below.

[0104] It should be noted that the invention extends to arrangements in which the layout of the bays in the rows 11a, 11b, 11c differs from the one shown in the drawings.

[0105] The walls 7a, 7b, 7d have any suitable height ensuring the privacy of the passengers in the cabin area 5. For example, the walls 7a, 7b, 7d are 1.7 m high.

[0106] The aisle 51 is formed as a curved aisle. The curved aisle contributes to the overall appearance of the cabin. The curved aisle 51 is formed by forming the doorway wall 7b as a convex wall as viewed from the aisle 51 and by staggering the positions of the cabin areas 5 so that the doorways 9 of the cabin areas 5 on the opposite sides of the aisle 51 are not aligned.

[0107] The bays 5 in rows 11a, 11b, 11c are staggered along the length of the aisle 51 so that the doorways 9 of the bays on one side of the aisle 51 face the doorway walls 7b on the other side of the aisle 51 and vice versa.

[0108] As mentioned above, forming the doorway wall 7b as a curved wall as viewed from the aisle 51 means that there is additional space in these sections of the cabin area 5, as described further below. This is an advantage because it allows for more efficient use of the available space within the cabin area 5.

[0109] Each cabin section 5 includes a sliding door assembly for closing a doorway 9. The sliding door assembly of each cabin section 5 includes a door 8, which is mounted for sliding movement between a retracted position and a closed position, wherein in the retracted position, the door 8 is located in a frame (not shown) in the doorway wall 7b, and in the closed position, the door 8 extends across the doorway 9 to close the cabin section 5. In the closed position, the door 8 and the doorway wall 7b are bent outwardly into the corresponding aisle 51. By bending the door 8 outwardly, additional space is created within the cabin section 5. This additional space is useful because when the door is closed and the seat 31 is tilted in the bed configuration (as further described below), there is space between the bed and the closed door 8 that allows a passenger to stand or comfortably place his / her legs to stand next to the bed configuration.

[0110] Each door 8 has a fixed sunshade (or louver).

[0111] Each passenger cabin zone 5 accommodates a wide range of furniture required by passengers, particularly on long haul flights.

[0112] The furniture includes the above-mentioned chair 31 , a footstool 36 having a seat, and a table assembly 38 located in the cabin area 5 .

[0113] The furniture is designed and arranged to be interactive, allowing it to be selectively arranged in many different functional configurations depending on the needs of the passengers, especially on long-haul flights.

[0114] The seat 31 is located on one side of the doorway and is positioned against the end wall 7a on that side of the doorway 9, the footrest 36 is located on the other side of the doorway 9, and the table assembly 38 is housed in the end wall 7a near the footrest 36 and is movable between a storage position in which the table is stored in a cavity in the end wall 7a and an operating position in which the table assembly 38 extends horizontally into the space between the seat 31 and the footrest 36. In the case of the outer rows 11a and 11c of the cabin area 5, the table assembly 38 is located adjacent to the aircraft side wall 15. In the case of the inner row 11b of the cabin area 5, the table assembly 38 is located adjacent to the front wall 7d on that side of the doorway 9.

[0115] The footrest 36 has a space for storing luggage at the lower side of the seat of the footrest 36. The seat can be lifted upward to expose the luggage stored in the space.

[0116] The seat 31 is multifunctional. Specifically, the seat 31 can be folded between an upright position suitable for a person to sit in the seat 31 and a fully reclined position in which the seat 31 forms a bed. It should be noted that the seat 31 can be adjusted to any position between the upright position and the fully reclined position.

[0117] In some embodiments, footstool 36 can be adjacent to the end of the bed to extend the length of the bed. In this regard, footstool 36 has a top surface that is at the same height as the top surface of the bed to provide a flat surface for lying.

[0118] Figure 2 Figures 4 to 4 show interior views of pairs of compartments 5 in the inner row 11b.

[0119] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the paired cabins 5 are separated by upright privacy screens 7c, which include three independently movable (i.e., individual) upright panels 53 in the above-mentioned deployment position within the cabin 5. In this position, the panels 53 form a continuous privacy screen 7c shown in the figure, which separates the paired cabins 5. In other words, in this position, the panels 53 are arranged end to end, i.e., the side edges 55 of adjacent panels are in contact, and each panel 53 occupies a section (or a portion) of the common wall between the cabins 5. Each panel 53 extends the entire peripheral wall height, i.e., 1.7m. When the privacy screen 7c is in the deployment position, the privacy screen 7c ensures that the passengers in the paired cabins 5 are blocked from sight from each other and cannot enter across the cabin 5. When the privacy screen 7c is in the deployment position, the privacy screen 7c also serves as an acoustic barrier. In this regard, the privacy screen 7c may include sound-absorbing materials to further attenuate the noise propagating between the cabins.

[0120] As described above, the upright privacy screen 7c can be moved from a deployed position within the cabin area 5 to a retracted position outside the cabin area 5, so that the cabin area 5 can be converted from a separate single cabin area to a larger double bed cabin area. In the double bed cabin area configuration, the privacy screen 7c does not restrict movement within the larger double bed cabin area.

[0121] The panel 53 of the privacy screen 7c can be moved in a deployment position (such as Figure 2 shown) and the retracted position in the cavity 6 (see Figure 1 and other figures) independently of each other horizontally. In the retracted position, the panels 53 are arranged in an overlapping arrangement, that is, the panels 53 are in a side-by-side arrangement, with the face of one panel 53 facing the face of an adjacent overlapping panel 53.

[0122] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The privacy screen 7c is shown in two partially deployed configurations. These partially deployed configurations provide passengers with some degree of privacy from passengers in opposing cabin areas. Figure 4A In the example, passengers in one cabin area 5 are prevented from viewing passengers in another cabin area 5 from the waist down. Figure 4B In the embodiment, passengers in one cabin area 5 are able to visually observe passengers in another cabin area 5, but are prevented from observing the screen located on the front wall of the cabin area 5.

[0123] Figure 3 and Figure 5 The cabin area 5 is shown with the privacy screen 7c in a retracted position located in the cavity 6 in a portion of the end wall 7a located behind the seat 31 .

[0124] The cavity 6 is an elongated slot (and hereinafter referred to as slot 6) extending the entire cabin height (i.e. 1.7 m). The depth of the slot 6 is determined by the depth of the panels forming the privacy screen 7c. In other words, the slot 6 must be deep enough to accommodate a single panel without the panel protruding outside the slot 6. The width of the slot 6 is determined by the maximum thickness of the panel located closest to the slot 6. Preferably, each panel of the privacy screen 7c has the same thickness.

[0125] However, it is also envisaged that, when the privacy screen is in the deployed position, the thickness of the panels may be less for panels further away from the slot 6 than for panels closer to the slot. For example, the terminal panel located furthest from the slot 6 in the deployed position may have the smallest thickness. In some forms of privacy screen 7c (not shown), the variation in thickness allows the panels of the privacy screen 7c to telescope within each other when retracted into the stowed position. Therefore, except for the terminal panel, each panel needs to be of sufficient thickness to accommodate its adjacent panels.

[0126] The privacy screen 7c moves along and between the pair of rails (or tracks) 10 via an electric drive system (not shown). The pair of rails 10 is located at the cabin height (ie, 1.7 m) and extends between the passenger seats 31.

[0127] The privacy screen 7c is electrically operated via a remote controller. The remote controller may be a handheld remote controller or a control panel mounted on a wall.

[0128] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A diagram of a seat 31 for use in each passenger compartment zone 5 is shown. The seat 31 can be in an upright position (e.g. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B The seat 31 can be pivotally adjusted between a tilted position (not shown) and a fully tilted position (not shown) and any suitable position therebetween. In the tilted position, the seat 31 becomes a bed suitable for a passenger to lie flat.

[0129] Adjacent passenger seats 31 are pivotally connected so that adjusting the angle of one passenger seat 31 simultaneously adjusts the angle of the other passenger seat 31. When the adjacent passenger seats 31 operate in coordination (or in tandem), as described above, a passenger's companion is able to simultaneously adjust the angle of both seats 31. This configuration avoids the passenger's companion having to carefully adjust his / her seat 31 to match the angle of his / her companion's seat 31.

[0130] The angle adjustment of the passenger seats 31 is remotely operated via a remote controller. The remote controller may have a secondary (or second) mode of operation, whereby the angle of each passenger seat 31 can be adjusted independently. Preferably, the remote controller is the same remote controller used to operate the privacy screen 7c. However, it is also conceivable that the remote controller may be a different remote controller.

[0131] For safety reasons, it is desirable for the flight attendant (or crew member) to be able to use a remote controller and be able to select which mode of operation (i.e., coordinated or independent angle adjustment) to operate the seats 31. For takeoff and landing, the seats 31 must be in an upright position. Therefore, the flight attendant may wish to override the control of the seats 31 to return all or some of the seats 31 to an upright position.

[0132] Each passenger seat 31 has a pair of armrests 32. The armrests 32 are electrically actuated so that the height of each armrest is adjustable. When a pair of passenger seats 31 is in an upright position, the armrests (inner armrests) located between the seats 31 can be lowered to form a configuration equivalent to a "two-seat sofa" configuration from a pair of adjacent seats. When the pair of passenger seats is in a reclined position, the armrests (outer armrests) located closest to the privacy screen 7c can be lowered to form a configuration equivalent to a "double bed" configuration from a pair of adjacent seats.

[0133] The height of at least one of the armrests 32 is adjustable via a remote control. Preferably, the remote control is the same remote control used to operate the angle of the seat. However, it is also conceivable that the remote control may be a different remote control.

[0134] Each seat 31 has a seat portion 33 , a backrest 34 , and a leg rest 35 .

[0135] The backrest 34 comprises a middle section 34a to which side wings 34b are pivotally connected. The side wings 34b allow the curvature of the backrest to be adjustable, such as Figure 5 A and Figure 5 B. It is desirable to provide a flat surface when the seat 31 is in the "double bed" configuration and a curved surface when the seat 31 is in the upright position.

[0136] Each seat 31 also has a leg rest 35 pivotally connected to the base of the seat 31. When the seat 31 is in an upright position, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 A and Figure 5 B, the leg rest 35 is substantially perpendicular to the base of the seat 31 so that it is tucked under the legs of the passenger. However, when the seat 31 is in a tilted position, the top surface of the leg rest 35 is flush with the seat 33 and the backrest 34.

[0137] like FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C As shown, each of the inner row 11 b cabin zones 5 has a table assembly 38 connected to an arm 39 via a bracket 40 .

[0138] The arm 39 has a proximal end connected to the front wall 7d and a distal end connected to the bracket 40. The arm 39 is telescopically extendable in a first direction along a first axis extending between adjacent seats.

[0139] The arm 39 extends from the end wall 7a rather than the floor. This configuration minimizes obstructions that would otherwise present a trip hazard to passengers walking across the floor when the table assembly 38 is in the stowed configuration.

[0140] The bracket 40 includes a bottom section that is fixedly connected to the distal end of the arm 39 so that the bracket 40 is movable with the arm 39 as the arm 39 extends in the first direction along the first axis.

[0141] The table assembly 38 is a bi-fold table comprising two table hinges 38a, 38b which are hinged together such that the hinges are pivotally movable about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis.

[0142] As in Fig. 7AAs can be seen in the figure, a portion of the front wall 7d in front of the seat 31 includes a horizontally extending elongated slot that defines a storage pocket 41. The storage pocket 41 is sized so that the table assembly 38 can be fully retracted into the storage pocket 41 in the stowed configuration.

[0143] In the deployed configuration, the table assembly 38 is configured to support food and other items.

[0144] The table assembly 38 can be electrically transformed from the stowed configuration to the deployed configuration via a remote controller. Alternatively, the table assembly 38 can be manually transformed from the stowed configuration to the deployed configuration.

[0145] To convert the table assembly 38, the bracket 40 is extended in a first direction along the first axis to position the table assembly 38 between the seat 31 and the ottoman 36, which results in Figure 7B Then, one of the table flaps 38a, 38b can be pivoted about the second axis to unfold the table assembly 38, which results in Figure 7C The arrangement shown in .

[0146] like Figure 8 As shown, each of the outer rows 11a, 11c cabin sections 5 has a table assembly 41, which includes a table 42 having two table flaps 42a, 42b hingedly connected to each other. The table 42 is connected to an arm 43, which is slidably mounted on a bracket 44. The bracket 44 is mounted along the aircraft side wall 15. To stow the table assembly 41, the passenger folds the table flaps 42a, 42b and slides the table assembly 41 forward into a storage bag located in front of the seat 31 in the cabin section.

[0147] This configuration similarly minimizes obstructions that would otherwise present a tripping hazard to passengers walking across the floor when the table assembly 41 is in the stowed configuration.

[0148] In summary, the aircraft cabin according to the present invention optimizes space utilization, enhances the luxury experience, and minimizes the amount of trip hazards within the passenger cabin area.

[0149] In the appended claims and the foregoing description of the invention, unless the context requires otherwise due to explicit language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "include" or "have" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e., specifying the presence of the stated features but not excluding the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0150] It should be appreciated that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such citation does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.

Claims

1. An aircraft cabin comprising a plurality of passenger cabin zones, the plurality of passenger cabin zones including at least one double bed passenger cabin zone, wherein the double bed cabin zone is defined by a peripheral wall having two openings allowing access to the double bed cabin zone, two passenger seats positioned side by side adjacent to each other, and an upright privacy screen, the privacy screen being movable between (a) a retracted position and (b) a deployed position, wherein in the retracted position the privacy screen is at least substantially stowed outside the double bed cabin zone so that movement of passengers in the cabin zone is not restricted by the privacy screen, and in the deployed position the privacy screen is located in the double bed cabin zone between the passenger seats and divides the cabin zone into two separate individual passenger cabin zones, the privacy screen forming a common wall between the separate individual cabin zones, and each separate individual cabin zone being accessible via one of the openings.

2. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 1, wherein: The peripheral wall includes a cavity for receiving the privacy screen and thereby stowing the privacy screen in the retracted position.

3. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 2, wherein: The cavity is positioned rearward of the passenger seat.

4. An aircraft cabin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The privacy screen includes a plurality of upstanding panels that are movable independently of one another between retracted and extended positions.

5. An aircraft cabin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The privacy screen extends to a height of the peripheral wall adjacent the privacy screen.

6. An aircraft cabin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The passenger cabin area includes at least one rail for supporting and guiding the privacy screen for movement between the passenger seats and between the retracted position and the deployed position.

7. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 6, wherein: The at least one rail includes an upper rail positioned at a height adjacent the peripheral wall of the privacy screen.

8. An aircraft cabin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The privacy screen is an electrically operable privacy screen.

9. A double bed passenger cabin area for an aircraft, the double bed cabin area being defined by a perimeter wall having two openings allowing access to the double bed cabin area, two passenger seats positioned side by side adjacent to each other, and an upright privacy screen movable between (a) a retracted position and (b) a deployed position, wherein in the retracted position the privacy screen is at least substantially stowed outside the double bed cabin area so that movement of a passenger in the cabin area is not restricted by the privacy screen, and in the deployed position the privacy screen is located in the double bed cabin area between the passenger seats and divides the cabin area into two separate individual passenger cabin areas, wherein the privacy screen forms a common wall between the separate individual cabin areas and each separate individual cabin area is accessible via one of the openings.

10. An aircraft cabin comprising a plurality of passenger seats, the plurality of passenger seats comprising at least one pair of passenger seats positioned adjacent to each other and side by side, each passenger seat in the pair of passenger seats being adjustable between an upright position and a reclined position, each passenger seat in the pair of passenger seats being operable separately by a passenger to adjust the position of the seat independently of the other seat in the pair of passenger seats, and the pair of passenger seats being operable together so that the positions of the pair of seats can be adjusted simultaneously, thereby the two seats moving in coordination.

11. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 10, wherein: The angle adjustment of the passenger seat may be remotely operated via a remote controller.

12. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 11, wherein: The remote control is capable of adjusting the angle of each passenger seat independently.

13. An aircraft cockpit according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: Each passenger seat has an inner armrest and an outer armrest, and at least one of the inner armrest and the outer armrest is height-adjustable.

14. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 13, wherein: When the passenger seat is in the upright position, the inner armrest can be lowered to form a two-seater sofa configuration.

15. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 14, wherein: When the passenger seat is in the reclined position, the inner and outer armrests can be lowered to form a double bed configuration.

16. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 14, wherein: At least one of the inner armrest and the outer armrest is electrically operated.

17. An aircraft cockpit according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein: A height of at least one of the inner armrest and the outer armrest may be adjustable via the remote controller.

18. An aircraft cabin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: At least one of the seats has a backrest comprising a middle section to which side wings are pivotably connected such that the curvature of the backrest is adjustable.

19. An aircraft cockpit according to any preceding claim, further comprising a footrest supported by the floor.

20. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 17, wherein: The footrest has space for storing luggage.

21. The aircraft cockpit according to claim 18, wherein: The storage space is located below the footrest seat, and the footrest seat is a hinged seat that can be raised to reveal luggage stored in the storage space.

22. An aircraft cabin according to any preceding claim, further comprising a table movably connected to an arm extending from the peripheral wall.

23. An aircraft cockpit according to claim 22, wherein: The arm is telescopically movable.

24. An aircraft cockpit according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein: The table is foldable.

25. An aircraft cockpit, comprising: (a) at least two outer rows of passenger cabin areas on each side of the aircraft cabin, wherein the rows are spaced apart in the longitudinal extension of the aircraft cabin, the aircraft side walls forming sections of the cabin areas of each row, (b) two adjacent passenger compartment areas of at least one inner row, and (c) at least two aisles extending in said direction of longitudinal extension and separating the bays in each row, such that each bay is accessible via one of said aisles, and (d) Each cabin zone includes walls defining the cabin zone space and a doorway allowing access to the cabin zone space from one of the aisles, wherein each cabin zone includes at least seats for passengers configured to function as both seats and beds, and the walls along the aisles are outwardly curved walls that form an area between the seats and the doorway on which passengers can stand when the seats are in a bed configuration.

26. An aircraft cockpit according to claim 25, wherein: Each bay includes a door movable between a closed position in which the door extends across and closes the doorway and an open position in which the door is away from the doorway.

27. An aircraft cockpit according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein: Doorways of cabins on opposite sides of the aisle are misaligned whereby the doorways face doorway walls on opposite sides of the aisle.

28. An aircraft comprising an aircraft cabin as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8 and 10 to 27.

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