Threshold for floor in aircraft

Abstract

A sill for a floor in an aircraft is described herein. An example aircraft includes a subfloor, a first flooring material on the subfloor, a second flooring material on the subfloor, and a sill at least partially between the first flooring material and the second flooring material. The sill includes a vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface. The vertical body portion has a recessed area extending into the second side surface at the bottom surface, and wherein the second edge of the second flooring material extends into the recessed area. The sill further includes a ramp portion extending from the first side surface. The ramp portion has a thickness that tapers from the vertical body portion to a distal end of the ramp portion. The ramp portion is positioned between the subfloor and a portion of the first flooring material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to thresholds and, more particularly, to thresholds for floors in aircraft. Background Art

[0002] Aircraft fuselages typically have different types of floor materials in different sections of the fuselage. For example, some sections have non-woven flooring (NTF), such as vinyl mats or rubber mats, while other sections have fabric flooring, such as carpet. A threshold is installed between the edges where the two floor materials meet. Summary of the invention

[0003] An aircraft includes: a subfloor; a first floor material, on the subfloor, the first floor material has a first edge; and a second floor material, on the subfloor, the second floor material has a second edge. The aircraft includes a door sill at least partially between the first floor material and the second floor material. The door sill includes a vertical body portion, the vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite the first side surface. The vertical body portion has a recessed area extending into the second side surface at the bottom surface, wherein the second edge of the second floor material extends into the recessed area. The door sill also includes a ramp portion extending from the first side surface. The ramp portion has a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion to a distal end of the ramp portion. The ramp portion is positioned between the subfloor and a portion of the first floor material.

[0004] A threshold for installation between two floor materials, the threshold comprising a vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The second side surface has a recessed area at the bottom surface to receive an edge of a floor material. The recessed area forms an overhang on the second side surface. The threshold also includes a ramp portion extending from the first side surface. The ramp portion has a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion to a distal end of the ramp portion.

[0005] A method for installing flooring material and a door sill in an aircraft includes: bonding a first portion of a first flooring material to a subfloor in the aircraft, and bonding a door sill to the subfloor near a first edge of the first flooring material. The door sill includes a vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite the first side surface. The vertical body portion has a recessed area extending into the second side surface at the bottom surface. The door sill also includes a ramp portion extending from the first side surface. The ramp portion has a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion to a distal end of the ramp portion. The method also includes: bonding a second portion of the first flooring material to the top of the ramp portion of the door sill so that the first edge of the first flooring material is adjacent to the first side surface of the vertical body portion. The method also includes bonding a second flooring material to the subfloor and tucking the second edge of the second flooring material into the recessed area of ​​the door sill. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 An example aircraft is shown in which the example thresholds disclosed herein may be implemented.

[0007] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional or side view of an exemplary door sill constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 3 Is has Figure 2 Example thresholds Figure 1 A cross-sectional or side view of the floor of an exemplary aircraft.

[0009] Figure 4A An example of a carpet with a bound edge treatment is shown.

[0010] Figure 4B An example of a carpet with a quick-bind edge treatment is shown.

[0011] Figure 4C An example of a carpet without edge treatment is shown.

[0012] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional or side view of another exemplary door sill.

[0013] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional or side view of another exemplary door sill.

[0014] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional or side view of another exemplary door sill.

[0015] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional or side view of another exemplary door sill.

[0016] Fig. 9is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of installing flooring material and an exemplary threshold.

[0017] Generally, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or similar parts. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Instead, the thickness of a layer or region may be exaggerated in the drawings. Although the drawings show layers and regions with clear lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In practice, boundaries and / or lines may be invisible, mixed, and / or irregular. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Disclosed herein are exemplary thresholds (sometimes referred to as transition strips) that may be installed at the junction between two floor materials. Thresholds are used to create a smooth transition where the edges of two floor materials meet. Thresholds are commonly used in aircraft between different floor sections. For example, the galley of a fuselage typically has a mat or plastic floor, while the passenger area of ​​the fuselage has a carpet floor. A threshold may be installed between the edge of a mat and the edge of a carpet. Thresholds help prevent the mat and / or carpet from lifting, and provide a smooth transition from one floor material to another when they have different thicknesses.

[0019] Known door sills are relatively bulky and create a significant bulge between the two floor materials. This bulge can be a nuisance for wheeled devices such as kitchen carts, luggage, wheelchairs, knee scooters, etc. In addition, known door sills have long arms that extend over the tops of the two floor materials. These arms create weak points in the door sill that are susceptible to cracking, chipping, warping and shrinkage problems.

[0020] Disclosed herein is a low profile threshold that does not produce a large ridge as seen in known threshold designs. This enables galley carts and other wheeled devices to easily roll between two floor materials without causing noticeable jolts. The exemplary thresholds disclosed herein are also less prone to failure, which reduces costs associated with aircraft maintenance. The exemplary thresholds disclosed herein are lighter and constructed of less material than known thresholds. As such, the exemplary thresholds disclosed herein are cheaper to manufacture. The exemplary thresholds disclosed herein can be used for new installations or retrofitted on existing floors during refresh periods (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).

[0021] The exemplary threshold disclosed herein includes a vertical body portion and a ramp portion. In some examples, the threshold is constructed as a single or monolithic component (e.g., an integral structure), such as via an extrusion process. In some examples, the threshold is constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The vertical body portion is disposed between the edge of the first floor material and the edge of the second floor material. The ramp portion extends from the first side of the vertical body portion and is installed below the first floor material (e.g., a mat). The ramp portion has a gradually increasing thickness to lift the first floor material to a height closer to the second floor material (e.g., a carpet). The second side surface of the vertical body portion has a recessed area (e.g., an inner recess or a recessed portion) forming a small overhang. The edge of the second floor material is tucked into the recessed area. The small overhang reduces or limits the amount by which the edge of the second floor material can be lifted. Compared with the arms of the known thresholds, the overhang is relatively small. This reduces or limits weak points that may cause cracks.

[0022] Although the exemplary door sills disclosed herein are described in conjunction with floors in aircraft, the exemplary door sills disclosed herein may also be used in conjunction with any flooring. For example, the door sills may be used in other types of vehicles (e.g., buses, trains, etc.), in residential buildings, in commercial buildings, and / or in any other location where a door sill is typically used between two flooring materials.

[0023] Figure 1 An exemplary aircraft 100 is shown in which embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented. In the illustrated example, the aircraft 100 includes a fuselage 102, a first wing 104 (left wing) coupled to the fuselage 102, a second wing 106 (right wing) coupled to the fuselage 102, and a tail 108 at the tail end of the fuselage 102. The tail 108 has a horizontal stabilizer 110 and a vertical stabilizer 112. The aircraft 100 also includes a first engine 114 carried by the first wing 104 and a second engine 116 carried by the second wing 106. In other examples, the aircraft 100 may have multiple engines coupled to each of the first wing 104 and the second wing 106 and / or disposed in other locations on the aircraft 100 (e.g., coupled to the fuselage 102, coupled to the tail 108, etc.).

[0024] The fuselage 102 of the aircraft 100 carries passengers and / or cargo. The fuselage 102 may include one or more floors or layers having floors. The floors may include, for example, carpets and / or mats. Disclosed herein are exemplary thresholds that may be used between edges or joints where two floor materials meet.

[0025] Figure 2is a cross-sectional or side view of an exemplary door sill 200 that may be used in exemplary aircraft 100. For example, door sill 200 may be used as a transition between two floor materials (e.g., mat and carpet) in fuselage 102 of aircraft 100. Door sill 200 creates a smooth transition between floor materials to reduce (e.g., minimize) bumps and damage to the floor materials.

[0026] The threshold 200 has one or more portions or sections. In the example shown, the threshold 200 has a vertical body portion 202 and a ramp portion 204 coupled to the vertical body portion 202 and extending from the vertical body portion. When the threshold 200 is installed between two floor materials, the vertical body portion 202 is disposed between the edges of the two floor materials, and the ramp portion 204 extends under one of the two floor materials to help raise the floor material to the same height as the other floor material. The threshold 200 can be constructed in any length (dimensions extending into and out of the page). As Figure 2 As shown, the vertical body portion 202 has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape and has a top surface 206 , a bottom surface 208 opposite to the top surface 206 , a first side surface 210 , and a second side surface 212 opposite to the first side surface 210 .

[0027] In the illustrated example, the vertical body portion 202 has a recessed area 214 at the bottom surface 208 that extends into the second side surface 212. In other words, the second side surface 212 has or forms a recessed area 214 at the bottom surface 208. The recessed area 214 may also be referred to as a recess or an inner recess. The recessed area 214 receives the edge of the floor material, as shown in further detail herein. The recessed area 214 forms an overhang 215 on the second side surface 212 that extends outward from the top surface 206. The overhang 215 helps prevent the floor material from lifting, as shown in further detail herein.

[0028] like Figure 2As shown, the vertical body portion 202 of the threshold 200 has a first edge 216 between the top surface 206 and the first side surface 210. In the example shown, the first edge 216 is curved or rounded. In some examples, the first edge 216 has a constant radius of curvature. The threshold 200 also has a second edge 218 between the top surface 206 and the second side surface 212. In the example shown, the second edge 218 is curved or rounded. In some examples, the second edge 218 has a constant radius of curvature. In some examples, the first edge 216 and the second edge 218 have a radius of curvature of 0.035 inches. In other examples, the radius of curvature can be larger or smaller. In some examples, the first edge 216 and the second edge 218 are curved or rounded to provide a smooth transition along the top surface 206 of the threshold 200.

[0029] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the top surface 206 of the vertical body portion 202 is curved or rounded (e.g., convex) between the first edge 216 and the second edge 218. This curved or rounded shape helps to address Figure 3 . In this way, the curved or rounded shape helps provide a smooth transition between floor materials. In some examples, the top surface 206 has a continuous curvature between the first edge 216 and the second edge 218. In some examples, the top surface 206 is curved with a constant radius of curvature between the first edge 216 and the second edge 218. In some examples, the radius of curvature is 2 inches. In other examples, the radius of curvature can be larger or smaller. In other examples, the top surface 206 can be curved with a varying radius of curvature between the first edge 216 and the second edge 218.

[0030] In the illustrated example, the ramp portion 204 extends from the first side surface 210 of the vertical body portion 202 at the bottom surface 208. The ramp portion 204 has a top surface 220, a bottom surface 222 opposite the top surface 220, and a distal end 224. In the illustrated example, the distal end 224 of the ramp portion 204 is rounded or curved. However, in other examples, the distal end 224 may have a sharp corner (e.g., a 90° corner). The bottom surface 222 of the ramp portion 204 is continuous with the bottom surface 208 of the vertical body portion 202. Therefore, the bottom surface 222 and the bottom surface 208 form a bottom side or bottom surface 226 of the threshold 200. The ramp portion 204 has a bottom surface 222 extending from the vertical body portion 202 ( Figure 2 ) to the distal end 224 of the slope portion 204 ( Figure 2 In other words, the thickness of the ramp portion 204 gradually increases from the distal end 224 to the vertical body portion 202. For example, Figure 2As shown, the ramp portion 204 has a first thickness T1 at the distal end 224 and a second thickness T2 at the connection with the vertical body portion 202. Thickness T2 is greater than thickness T1. This gradually increasing thickness raises the floor material closer to the top surface 206 of the threshold 200 and closer to the height of another floor material.

[0031] In some examples, the door sill 200 is constructed from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). For example, the door sill can be constructed from Lubrizol ESTANE ether-based TPU. ® 58244 construction. This type of material has increased durability and dimensional stability. In other examples, the threshold 200 is constructed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), such as BMS 8-137. In other examples, the threshold 200 can be constructed of other types of materials. In this example, the threshold 200 is constructed as a single or integral structure. For example, the threshold 200 can be manufactured via an extrusion process or a molding process. In other examples, the threshold 200 can be constructed of two or more separate parts (e.g., a vertical body portion 202 and a ramp portion 204), which are connected together (e.g., via a joining process) to form the threshold 200. The threshold 200 can be constructed of any length depending on the length of the edge of the floor material.

[0032] exist Figure 2 2. The various dimensions are shown in FIG. The threshold 200 has an overall height of H1 between the bottom surface 226 and the top surface 206. The first side surface 210 has a height H2 between the top surface 220 of the ramp portion 204 and the top surface 206 of the vertical body portion 202. The bottom surface 226 of the threshold 200 has a width W1. The vertical body portion 202 has a width W2. The thickness of the ramp portion 204 increases from T1 to T2. The overhang 215 has a width W3 and a height H3. The dimensions can be determined based on the type and / or thickness of the two floor materials between which a transition is required. In some examples, the ratio W1 / W2 is greater than 2 or 3. This is because the ramp portion 204 is relatively wide (in the horizontal direction) compared to the vertical body portion. In some examples, having a larger width W1 provides a sufficiently low surface for adhesive or double-sided tape width, while also providing enough material to be tucked under the flooring material (e.g., pad) to help hold the threshold 200 down, which provides greater stability and rigidity to the threshold 200. This also allows for a longer, more gradual rise in the height of the flooring material, which reduces (e.g., minimizes) noticeable ridges in the floor. In some examples, having a smaller width W2 is advantageous for aesthetic purposes because it reduces (e.g., minimizes) the amount of visible plastic (more plastic is generally less aesthetically pleasing).

[0033] Figure 3 It is aircraft 100 ( Figure 1 ) body 102 ( Figure 1 ) is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a floor 300 in which a threshold 200 is used. In the illustrated example, the floor 300 includes a subfloor 302 on which one or more floor materials are layered. The subfloor 302 can be constructed of one or more floor panels of different materials. In some examples, the subfloor 302 is constructed of a composite material, such as a honeycomb core with graphite or fiberglass plies on the top and bottom. In other examples, the subfloor 302 can be constructed of other materials (e.g., wood, plastic, etc.).

[0034] The floor 300 of the aircraft 100 includes a first floor material 304 on the subfloor 302 and a second floor material 306 on the subfloor 302. In this example, the first floor material 304 is a mat (e.g., a vinyl mat), referred to herein as mat 304, and the second floor material 306 is a carpet, referred to herein as carpet 306. The door sill 200 is at least partially disposed between the mat 304 and the carpet 306 and provides a smooth transition between the mat 304 and the carpet 306. For example, the mat 304 may be a first floor material 304 on the fuselage 102 ( Figure 1 ) and the carpet 306 may be the floor in the passenger seating area of ​​the fuselage 102. The threshold 200 provides a smooth transition between the two different floor materials and areas of the fuselage 102. In some examples, the mat 304 and the carpet 306 have different heights or thicknesses relative to the subfloor 302. Thus, the threshold 200 also provides a smooth transition between the two different heights. In other examples, the first floor material 304 and the second floor material 306 may be other types of materials and / or combinations of materials, such as carpet and carpet, mat and mat, carpet and laminate, mat and laminate, etc.

[0035] In the example shown, the threshold 200 is disposed on the subfloor 302. In some examples, the threshold 200 is coupled to the subfloor 302 via an adhesive. Figure 3 As shown, an adhesive layer 308 is disposed between the subfloor 302 and the bottom surface 226 of the threshold 200. The adhesive layer 308 holds the threshold 200 in place on the subfloor 302. In some examples, the adhesive layer 308 is a tape, such as a double-sided tape (e.g., BMS5-133 Type II, Category 2 tape). In some examples, the adhesive layer 308 is a self-adhesive layer on the bottom surface 226 of the threshold 200. In other examples, other types of adhesives (e.g., glue) can be used. In still other examples, an adhesive layer is not used. Instead, the bottom surface 226 of the threshold 200 can be directly in contact with the subfloor 302 and / or coupled to the subfloor 302 via other mechanisms (e.g., nails, screws, etc.).

[0036] Mat 304 has a top surface 310, a bottom surface 312, and a first edge 314. Carpet 306 has a top surface 316, a bottom surface 318, and a second edge 320. In some examples, mat 304 and carpet 306 have different thicknesses. Figure 3 3, the thickness of the mat 304 is less than the thickness of the carpet 306. The threshold 200 is at least partially disposed between the edges 314, 320 of the mat 304 and the carpet 306 and serves to create a smooth transition between the two types of flooring and their respective heights.

[0037] In the illustrated example, a portion of the pad 304 is disposed on or above the ramp portion 204 of the threshold 200. In other words, the ramp portion 204 is located between the subfloor 302 and a portion of the pad 304. In some examples, the weight of the portion of the pad 304 on the ramp portion 204 helps to hold the threshold 200 in place. Additionally, as discussed above, the pad 304 can be thinner than the carpet 306. Thus, the ramp portion 204 provides a gradual increase in the height of the pad 304, so that the top surface 310 of the pad 304 is closer to or the same height as the top surface 206 of the threshold 200 and the top surface 316 of the carpet 306. This enables the wheeled device to roll easily and smoothly between the two floor materials.

[0038] In some examples, mat 304 is coupled to subfloor 302 via an adhesive layer. For example, Figure 3 An exemplary adhesive layer 322 is shown on the bottom surface 312 of the pad 304. The adhesive layer 322 helps the pad 304 adhere to the subfloor 302 to prevent or limit movement. Figure 3 As shown, adhesive layer 322 is also between bottom surface 312 of pad 304 and top surface 220 of ramp portion 204. This helps door sill 200 remain coupled to pad 304 and reduces or limits relative movement between pad 304 and door sill 200. In some examples, adhesive layer 322 is a self-adhesive layer manufactured with pad 304, and the liner is disposed on the self-adhesive layer. Before installing pad 304, the liner is removed to expose the self-adhesive layer. In other examples, adhesive layer 322 can be another type of adhesive, such as tape (e.g., double-sided tape).

[0039] In some examples, the first edge 314 of the pad 304 does not extend all the way to the first side surface 210 of the vertical body portion 202 of the door sill 200. Figure 3As shown, sealant 324 is disposed between first edge 314 of pad 304 and first side surface 210 of vertical body portion 202. Sealant 324 may be, for example, BAC5010 TY 60 (RTV108-silicone sealant), BMS5-142, BMS5-45, or other types of sealants. Sealant 324 fills the gap or space between first edge 314 of pad 304 and first side surface 210 of rocker 200 to provide a smooth transition between top surface 310 of pad 304 and top surface 206 of rocker 200. Sealant 324 also prevents liquid from entering under pad 304.

[0040] In the illustrated example, the second edge 320 of the carpet 306 extends into (eg, is tucked into) the recessed area 214 formed on the second side surface 212 of the door sill 200. In some examples, the second edge 320 of the carpet 306 contacts the second side surface 212 of the door sill 200. Figure 3 As shown, the second edge 320 of the carpet 306 is rounded or curved. In some examples, the second edge 320 of the carpet 306 is edge treated, which helps prevent the carpet 306 from being worn. Figure 4A and Figure 4B Two exemplary edge treatments for carpet 306 are shown, including serging and speed binding. In other examples, other types of edge treatments may be implemented. In other examples, such as Figure 4C As shown, edge processing may not be provided. Figure 3 In some examples, carpet 306 is coupled to the subfloor via adhesive layer 326. In some examples, carpet 306 is manufactured with a self-adhesive layer or adhesive dots on bottom surface 318 and the self-adhesive layer or adhesive dots are covered by a liner. Before installing carpet 306, the liner is removed and carpet 306 can then be pressed onto subfloor 302.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the second edge 320 of the carpet 306 is disposed in the recessed area 214. As such, the overhang 215 of the door sill 200 is above (e.g., protrudes over) a portion of the carpet 306. The overhang 215 limits or prevents the second edge 320 of the carpet 306 from being lifted away from the subfloor 302. The design of the recessed area 214 and the overhang 215 also reduces (e.g., minimizes) or limits any gap between the door sill 200 and the carpet 306. The overhang 215 is relatively small compared to known door sills having long arms extending above the top of the carpet 306. In some examples, the overhang 215 has a width W3 (e.g., ±0.01 inches) in the horizontal direction that is less than about 0.100 inches (e.g., ±0.01 inches). Figure 2). Known thresholds with long arms extend about 1 inch or more in the horizontal direction. Therefore, in some examples, the overhang 215 is about 1 / 10 the size of the arm on a conventional threshold. Having a smaller overhang reduces or eliminates weak points of cracking and / or lifting. In other examples, the overhang 215 can have a width W3 greater than 0.100 inches. The width W3 can depend on the type and / or size of the flooring material.

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the top surface 206 of the threshold 200 provides a smooth transition between the top surface 310 of the pad 304 and the top surface 316 of the carpet 306. The transition is relatively gradual and does not cause a noticeable ridge as seen in known thresholds. This enables a wheeled device to easily pass over the transition between the pad 304 and the carpet 306. This also reduces impacts to the threshold 200 and thus reduces wear and tear on the threshold 200, and thereby increases the service life of the threshold 200.

[0043] As disclosed above, different sizes of threshold 200 may be selected based on the type and / or size of flooring material. In some examples, threshold 200 is sized to be used with flooring materials having a range of thicknesses. For example, assume that pad 304 has a minimum thickness of 0.059 inches (") and a maximum thickness of 0.132", and carpet 306 has a minimum thickness of 0.14" and a maximum thickness of 0.47". In this example, reference Figure 2 , the total height H1 is 0.17", the height H2 is 0.11", the width W1 is 1.4", the width W2 is 0.40", the thickness T1 is 0.04", the thickness T2 is 0.06", the width W3 of the overhang 215 is 0.100", and the height H3 of the overhang 215 is 0.123". These dimensions enable the door sill 200 to be used with mats and carpets having the above-mentioned thickness range, which are commonly found on aircraft. However, in other examples, the door sill 200 can be configured with different dimensions. For example, in the case of thicker / taller carpets, the thickness T1 and height H1 can be larger. As another example, the height H3 of the overhang 215 can be larger or smaller depending on the thickness of the carpet. In some examples, the height H3 of the overhang 215 can be in the range of 0.123" to 0.400".

[0044] In the example shown, the threshold 200 has an overhang 215 on one side and a ramp portion 204 on the opposite side. In this example, the first side surface 210 of the vertical body portion 202 has no overhang or arm that protrudes beyond the pad 304. In addition, the second side surface 212 has no ramp portion that extends under the carpet 306. Thus, the threshold 200 has an overhang on one side and a ramp portion on the opposite side. This minimized design makes use of less material and is therefore lighter and cheaper to manufacture. However, in other examples, the threshold 200 may have an overhang and / or a ramp on both sides.

[0045] Figures 5 to 8 304 and carpet 306. Other exemplary door sills that may be implemented in aircraft 100 are shown. The exemplary door sills are similar to door sill 200, except as noted below and shown in the accompanying drawings. Any exemplary aspects (e.g., dimensions, materials, etc.) disclosed in connection with door sill 200 may also be applied to the aircraft 100. Figures 5 to 8 The threshold in.

[0046] Figure 5 An exemplary door sill 500 is shown having a vertical body portion 502 and a ramp portion 504. The vertical body portion 500 has a first side 506 and a second side surface 508. In this example, the first side 506 has an overhang 510. Thus, when the pad 304 is installed, the overhang 510 is located above or protrudes above a portion of the pad 304. This limits or prevents the pad 304 from lifting. In addition, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, a recessed area 512 is formed on the second side surface 508. The recessed area 512 is larger than the recessed area 214 disclosed above. Therefore, the vertical body portion 502 is formed to protrude from the carpet 306 ( Figure 3 ) with a larger arm 514 above.

[0047] Figure 6 Shows that with Figure 2 and Figure 3 The shape of the threshold 200 is substantially similar to the shape of the exemplary threshold 600. However, in Figure 6 6, a sill 600 has a channel 602 extending into a bottom surface 604 of a vertical body portion 606. The channel 602 helps keep the thickness of the sill 600 more constant throughout the extrusion process, which helps improve the quality of the extrusion (e.g., minimizes potential flow due to cooling rate and material flow). The channel 602 also helps reduce (e.g., minimize) material usage and weight.

[0048] Figure 7An exemplary door sill 700 is shown having a vertical body portion 702 and a ramp portion 704. The vertical body portion 702 and the ramp portion 704 are similar to the vertical body portion 202 and the ramp portion 204 disclosed above. However, in this example, the ramp portion 704 is relatively wide (in degrees) compared to the width of the vertical body portion 702. Figure 7 In addition, vertical body portion 702 is relatively short compared to other vertical body portions. Therefore, threshold 700 may be advantageous for use with thinner floor materials. The longer slope provides a more gradual increase or slope to the floor material.

[0049] Figure 8 An exemplary threshold 800 is shown having a vertical body portion 802 and a ramp portion 804. The threshold 800 is substantially similar to Figure 7 The threshold 800 is the same as the threshold 700 of FIG. However, the threshold 800 has a shorter ramp portion. In addition, the vertical body portion 802 is higher. Therefore, this threshold 800 is advantageous for use with thicker floor materials.

[0050] Fig. 9 1 is a flow chart showing an exemplary method 900 for installing flooring material and exemplary door sill 200 in an aircraft, such as aircraft 100. Exemplary method 900 is disclosed in conjunction with mat 304 as a first flooring material and carpet 306 as a second flooring material. However, the exemplary method may be similarly performed in conjunction with other types of flooring materials. Additionally, the exemplary method may be performed in conjunction with other types of door sills, such as Figures 5 to 8 threshold) to implement exemplary method 900.

[0051] At block 902, method 900 includes positioning mat 304 in a desired location on subfloor 302, such as by one or more installers. The installer then bonds a first portion of mat 304 to subfloor 302. For example, the installer may lift back a corner or section of mat 304 and peel back the liner to expose adhesive layer 322 (e.g., a self-adhesive layer). Mat 304 may then be placed back on subfloor 302 to bond the first portion of mat 304 to subfloor 302. All portions of mat 304 are bonded to subfloor 302 except for a second portion along first edge 314. In some examples, the liner is held on the bottom of mat 304 along the second portion so that mat 304 is not accidentally bonded to subfloor 302. In other examples, mat 304 may be bonded to subfloor 302 using double-sided tape that has not yet been installed on mat 304.

[0052] At block 904, method 900 includes positioning threshold 200 in a desired position along the vicinity of first edge 314 of pad 304. In some examples, threshold 200 may be bonded to subfloor 302 using adhesive layer 308. In some examples, adhesive layer 308 is a double-sided tape. In such examples, the double-sided tape may first be bonded to bottom surface 226 of threshold 200, and then threshold 200 may be bonded to subfloor 302. In other examples, adhesive layer 308 may be a self-adhesive layer already on bottom surface 226 of threshold 200. Thus, method 900 may include positioning threshold 200, peeling off a liner covering the self-adhesive layer, and then bonding threshold 200 to subfloor 302. In some examples, subfloor 302 may be prepared by vacuuming and / or applying a solvent cleaner prior to bonding threshold 200 to help ensure a good bond.

[0053] At block 906, method 900 includes peeling the liner from pad 304 and bonding a second portion of pad 304 to the top of ramp portion 204 of rocker 200 such that first edge 314 of pad 304 is adjacent first side surface 210 of vertical body portion 202. In this manner, pad 304 is coupled to ramp portion 204 of rocker 200.

[0054] At block 908, method 900 includes positioning carpet 306 in a desired location on subfloor 302. Carpet 306 is positioned so that second edge 320 extends under overhang 215 of door sill 200. The installer then bonds carpet 306 to subfloor 302 (e.g., via adhesive layer 326) and tucks second edge 320 of carpet 306 into recessed area 214 of door sill 200 (and under overhang 215). Adhesive layer 326 may be, for example, a self-adhesive layer or a double-sided tape.

[0055] At block 910 , the method 900 includes adding a sealant 324 between the first edge 314 of the pad 304 and the first side surface 210 of the vertical body portion 202 .

[0056] In other examples, the flooring material and threshold 200 may be installed in a different order or sequence. For example, the carpet 306 may be installed before the mat 304 is installed.

[0057] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the term "above" describes the relationship of two parts relative to the earth. A first part is above a second part if at least a portion of the second part is between the earth and the first part. Likewise, as used herein, a first part is "below" a second part when the first part is closer to the earth than the second part. As described above, a first part can be above or below a second part if: there are one or more other parts between the first part and the second part, there are not one or more other parts between the first part and the second part, the first part and the second part are in contact, or the first part and the second part are not in direct contact with each other.

[0058] As used in this patent, stating that any part (e.g., a layer, film, region, area, or plate) is on another part in any manner (e.g., positioned on another part, located on another part, disposed on another part, or formed on another part, etc.) indicates that the referenced part is in contact with the other part, or that the referenced part is located above the other part with one or more intermediate parts located therebetween.

[0059] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and engagement) may include intermediate members between elements referenced by the connection reference and / or relative movement between these elements. Thus, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other and / or are in a fixed relationship to each other. As used herein, stating that any part is "in contact" with another part is defined as meaning that there is no intermediate part between the two parts.

[0060] Unless otherwise specifically stated, descriptors such as "first," "second," "third," etc., are used herein without representing or otherwise indicating any meaning of priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or ordering in any manner, but are merely used as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some instances, the descriptor "first" may be used to refer to an element in a specific embodiment, while the same element may be referred to in the claims as having a different descriptor such as "second" or "third." In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to clearly identify the element in the context of the discussion (e.g., in the claims), where the elements may, for example, otherwise share the same name.

[0061] As used herein, "approximately" and "about" modify their subject matter / values ​​to recognize the potential for variations that occur in real-world applications. For example, "approximately" and "approximately" may modify dimensions that may not be exact due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world imperfections, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "approximately" and "about" may indicate that such dimensions may be within a tolerance range of + / - 10%, unless otherwise specified in the description below.

[0062] "Include" and "comprising" (and all their expressions and formulations) are used herein as open-ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim employs any form of the expression "includes" or "comprising" (e.g., covers, has, possesses, contains, has, etc.) as a preamble or within any type of claim recitation, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may be present without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or recitation. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term, such as in the preamble of a claim, it is open-ended in the same manner as the terms "include" and "comprising" are open-ended. For example, when used in a form such as A, B, and / or C, the term "and / or" refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, or (7) A, B, and C. As used herein, in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein, in the context of describing the performance or execution of a process, instruction, action, activity, or the like, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing the performance or execution of a process, instruction, action, activity, etc., the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0063] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a," "an," "first," "second," etc.) do not exclude a plurality. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" object refers to one or more of the object. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. In addition, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements, or actions may be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. In addition, although individual features may be included in different instances or claims, these features may be combined, and inclusion in different instances or claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous.

[0064] From the foregoing, it should be appreciated that exemplary systems, apparatus, articles, and methods have been disclosed that provide a smooth transition between two flooring materials. The exemplary low profile thresholds disclosed herein reduce or eliminate significant ridges or height discontinuities between two flooring materials. This reduces or eliminates the difficulty of moving a wheeled device over the threshold. The exemplary thresholds disclosed herein are lighter than known thresholds, use less material, are less prone to failure, and result in significant cost savings.

[0065] Examples and combinations of examples disclosed herein include the following:

[0066] Example 1 is an aircraft, comprising: a subfloor; a first floor material, on the subfloor, the first floor material has a first edge; a second floor material, on the subfloor, the second floor material has a second edge; and a door sill, at least partially between the first floor material and the second floor material. The door sill includes a vertical body portion, the vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The vertical body portion has a recessed area extending into the second side surface at the bottom surface, wherein the second edge of the second floor material extends into the recessed area. The door sill also includes a ramp portion extending from the first side surface. The ramp portion has a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion to a distal end of the ramp portion. The ramp portion is positioned between the subfloor and a portion of the first floor material.

[0067] Example 2 includes the aircraft of example 1, wherein the recessed region forms an overhang on the second side surface, the overhang having a width less than 0.100 inches.

[0068] Example 3 includes the aircraft of example 1 or 2, wherein the door sill is constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0069] Example 4 includes the aircraft of any of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the door sill is a unitary structure.

[0070] Example 5 includes an aircraft according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the vertical body portion has a first edge between the top surface and the first side surface, and a second edge between the top surface and the second side surface, and wherein the top surface of the vertical body portion is curved between the first edge of the vertical body portion and the second edge of the vertical body portion.

[0071] Example 6 includes the aircraft of Example 5, wherein the first edge of the vertical body portion is rounded and the second edge of the vertical body portion is rounded.

[0072] Example 7 includes the aircraft of any of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising an adhesive layer between the subfloor and the bottom surface of the door sill.

[0073] Example 8 includes the aircraft of example 7, wherein the adhesive layer is a double-sided tape.

[0074] Example 9 includes the aircraft of any of Examples 1 to 8, further comprising an adhesive layer between the first floor material and the top surface of the ramp portion.

[0075] Example 10 includes the aircraft of any of Examples 1-9, further comprising a sealant between the first edge of the first floor material and the first side surface of the vertical body portion.

[0076] Example 11 includes the aircraft of any of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the first floor material is a mat and the second floor material is a carpet.

[0077] Example 12 includes the aircraft of example 11, wherein the second edge of the carpet is edge treated.

[0078] Example 13 is a threshold for installation between two floor materials, the threshold comprising a vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The second side surface has a recessed area at the bottom surface to receive an edge of a floor material. The recessed area forms an overhang on the second side surface. The threshold also includes a ramp portion extending from the first side surface. The ramp portion has a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion to the distal end of the ramp portion.

[0079] Example 14 includes a threshold according to Example 13, wherein the vertical body portion has a first edge between the top surface and the first side surface and a second edge between the top surface and the second side surface, and wherein the top surface of the vertical body portion is curved between the first edge of the vertical body portion and the second edge of the vertical body portion.

[0080] Example 15 includes the threshold of Example 14, wherein the first edge of the vertical body portion is rounded and the second edge of the vertical body portion is rounded.

[0081] Example 16 includes the door sill of any of Examples 13-15, wherein the door sill is constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0082] Example 17 includes the side sill of any of Examples 13-16, wherein the first side surface does not include an overhang.

[0083] Example 18 is a method of installing flooring material and a door sill in an aircraft, the method comprising bonding a first portion of a first flooring material to a subfloor in the aircraft, and bonding a door sill to the subfloor near a first edge of the first flooring material. The door sill comprises: a vertical body portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite the first side surface. The vertical body portion has a recessed area extending into the second side surface at the bottom surface and the door sill also comprises a ramp portion extending from the first side surface, the ramp portion having a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion to a distal end of the ramp portion. The method also comprises: bonding a second portion of the first flooring material on top of the ramp portion of the door sill so that the first edge of the first flooring material is adjacent to the first side surface of the vertical body portion; and bonding a second flooring material to the subfloor and tucking the second edge of the second flooring material into the recessed area of ​​the door sill.

[0084] Example 19 includes the method of Example 18, further comprising adding a sealant between the first edge of the first flooring material and the first side surface of the vertical body portion of the threshold.

[0085] Example 20 includes the method of Example 18 or 19, wherein the recessed area forms an overhang on the second side surface of the vertical body portion, the overhang being disposed over a portion of the second flooring material.

[0086] The attached claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description by this reference. Although certain exemplary systems, devices, articles and methods have been disclosed herein, the coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all systems, devices, articles and methods that fall completely within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. An aircraft (100), comprising: Subfloor (302); a first floor material (304) on the subfloor (302), the first floor material (304) having a first edge (314); a second floor material (306) on the subfloor (302), the second floor material (306) having a second edge (320); and A threshold (200) is at least partially between the first floor material (304) and the second floor material (306), the threshold (200) comprising: A vertical body portion (202) having a top surface (206), a bottom surface (208) opposite to the top surface (206), a first side surface (210), and a second side surface (212) opposite to the first side surface (210), the vertical body portion (202) having a recessed area (214) extending from the bottom surface (208) into the second side surface (212), wherein the second edge (320) of the second floor material (306) extends into the recessed area (214); and A ramp portion (204) extends from the first side surface (210), the ramp portion (204) having a thickness gradually decreasing from the vertical body portion (202) to a distal end (224) of the ramp portion (204), the ramp portion (204) being positioned between the subfloor (302) and a portion of the first floor material (304).

2. The aircraft (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The recessed area (214) forms an overhang (215) on the second side surface (212), the overhang (215) having a width less than 0.100 inches.

3. The aircraft (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The threshold (200) is constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane.

4. The aircraft (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The threshold (200) is an integral structure.

5. The aircraft (100) of claim 1, wherein: The vertical body portion (202) has a first edge (216) between the top surface (206) and the first side surface (210) and a second edge (218) between the top surface (206) and the second side surface (212), and wherein the top surface (206) of the vertical body portion (202) is curved between the first edge (216) of the vertical body portion (202) and the second edge (218) of the vertical body portion (202).

6. The aircraft (100) according to claim 5, wherein: A first edge (216) of the vertical body portion (202) is rounded, and a second edge (218) of the vertical body portion (202) is rounded.

7. The aircraft (100) of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive layer (308) between the subfloor (302) and a bottom surface (226) of the door sill (200).

8. The aircraft (100) of claim 7, wherein the adhesive layer (308) is a double-sided tape.

9. The aircraft (100) of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive layer (322) between the first floor material (304) and a top surface (220) of the ramp portion (204).

10. The aircraft (100) of claim 1, further comprising: A sealant (324) is provided between a first edge (314) of the first floor material (304) and the first side surface (210) of the vertical body portion (202).

11. The aircraft (100) of claim 1, wherein: The first floor material (304) is a mat and the second floor material (306) is a carpet.

12. The aircraft (100) according to claim 11, wherein: The second edge (320) of the carpet is edge-treated.

13. A threshold (200) for installation between two floor materials, the threshold (200) comprising: A vertical body portion (202) having a top surface (206), a bottom surface (208) opposite to the top surface (206), a first side surface (210), and a second side surface (212) opposite to the first side surface (210), wherein the second side surface (212) has a recessed area (214) at the bottom surface (208) to receive an edge of a flooring material, the recessed area (214) forming an overhang (215) on the second side surface (212); and A slope portion (204) extends from the first side surface (210), the slope portion (204) having a thickness that gradually decreases from the vertical body portion (202) to a distal end (224) of the slope portion (204).

14. The threshold (200) according to claim 13, wherein: The vertical body portion (202) has a first edge (216) between the top surface (206) and the first side surface (210) and a second edge (218) between the top surface (206) and the second side surface (212), and wherein the top surface (206) of the vertical body portion (202) is curved between the first edge (216) of the vertical body portion (202) and the second edge (218) of the vertical body portion (202).

15. The threshold (200) according to claim 14, wherein: A first edge (216) of the vertical body portion (202) is rounded, and a second edge (218) of the vertical body portion (202) is rounded.

16. The threshold (200) according to claim 13, wherein: The threshold (200) is constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane.

17. The threshold (200) according to claim 13, wherein: The first side surface (210) does not include an overhang.

18. A method of installing a floor material and a door sill (200) in an aircraft (100), the method comprising: bonding a first portion of a first flooring material (304) to a subfloor (302) in the aircraft (100); The threshold (200) is bonded to the subfloor (302) near a first edge (314) of the first floor material (304), the threshold (200) comprising: a vertical body portion (202) having a top surface (206), a bottom surface (208) opposite to the top surface (206), a first side surface (210), and a second side surface (212) opposite to the first side surface (210), the vertical body portion (202) having a recessed area (214) extending from the bottom surface (208) to the second side surface (212); and a ramp portion (204) extending from the first side surface (210), the ramp portion (204) having a thickness gradually decreasing from the vertical body portion (202) to a distal end (224) of the ramp portion (204); bonding a second portion of the first floor material (304) to a top of the sloped portion (204) of the threshold (200) such that the first edge (314) of the first floor material (304) is adjacent to the first side surface (210) of the vertical body portion (202); and A second flooring material (306) is bonded to the subfloor (302), and a second edge (320) of the second flooring material (306) is tucked into the recessed area (214) of the threshold (200).

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising adding a sealant (324) between the first edge (314) of the first flooring material (304) and the first side surface (210) of the vertical body portion (202) of the threshold (200).

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The recessed area (214) forms an overhang (215) on the second side surface (212) of the vertical body portion (202), and the overhang (215) is disposed above a portion of the second floor material (306).

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