System and method for monitoring life jacket on aircraft

Abstract

A system and method for monitoring a life vest onboard an aircraft is disclosed. The system may include a sensor configured to output a first signal when the sensor detects the life jacket and to output a second signal when the sensor is unable to detect the life jacket. The system may also include a first visual indicator in communication with the sensor. The first visual indicator may be activated based on the first signal. In addition, the system may also include a second visual indicator in communication with the sensor. A second visual indicator may be activated based on the second signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to monitoring systems, and more particularly to systems that may be used to monitor or detect the presence of items or objects, such as life jackets, stored on an aircraft. Background Art

[0002] This background description is provided for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are neither explicitly nor implicitly admitted to be prior art to the present disclosure or the appended claims.

[0003] Airlines are often faced with strict safety regulations regarding the installation, maintenance, and operation of certain safety equipment on aircraft. For example, commercial aircraft are often equipped with flotation devices or life jackets for passengers to use in the event of a water landing. Safety regulations often require that life jackets be stored within easy reach of each seated passenger and easily removable from the aircraft. This requirement is often met by storing life jackets near each passenger seat in a specific designated area. For example, life jackets can be installed under each passenger seat of the aircraft to ensure that each passenger on board has at least one life jacket. When a life jacket is stored under a passenger seat, the life jacket can be disposed in a storage container.

[0004] In order to ensure that the aircraft complies with safety regulations, a lot of time and effort can be spent on inspecting the life jackets stored on the aircraft before the flight. Currently, the inspection of life jackets can be performed manually by airline crew members. For example, airline crew members can verify the presence of life jackets in various designated areas. Specifically, crew members can perform a visual inspection to confirm that the life jackets are stored under each passenger seat and have not been damaged or otherwise removed.

[0005] In addition, airline crew members may need to access and visually inspect various features of life jackets. For example, each life jacket may need to be removed to inspect or verify the expiration date and other information associated with the life jacket. These manual inspections can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive for airline operations, especially in modern aircraft designed to carry many passengers. In addition, performing such inspections can cause the aircraft to be on standby on the ground until the inspection is completed. These manual and visual inspections can also be prone to human error. For example, a crew member may miss one or more designated areas or misidentify the presence of a life jacket.

[0006] An alternative to manual / visual safety checks may involve equipping life jackets and other safety devices with electronic devices, such as radio frequency identification (RFID). For example, a conventional RFID reader may be able to scan many RFID tags associated with life jackets. However, confirming that all RFID tags are readable within the aircraft cabin may not be sufficient to verify the presence of a life jacket in a designated storage location. For example, receiving a response signal from an RFID tag does not confirm that the tag is attached to a life jacket. In some cases, an RFID tag may be detached from a life jacket and the life jacket may be removed from the aircraft. In addition, a life jacket with an RFID tag may be placed in a non-designated area (e.g., misplaced). Therefore, the implementation of conventional RFID systems in the unique environment of an aircraft cabin is limited, and manual safety checks of life jackets may be required.

[0007] For at least these reasons, it would be advantageous to develop systems and methods for reducing the amount of time and expense involved in security inspections of life jackets and preventing life jackets from being removed and / or stolen. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present application is directed to embodiments involving systems, methods, and apparatus for detecting or monitoring the presence of objects or items, such as life jackets. The embodiments can automatically and continuously monitor or detect the presence of life jackets stored on a vehicle, such as an aircraft. By providing verification that a life jacket is present in a specified location, the embodiments can ensure compliance with airline safety regulations.

[0009] This embodiment can reduce the number of manual inspections involving life jackets, reduce the labor costs of the inspections, and reduce the time to complete the inspections. In addition, this embodiment can reduce the possibility of human error associated with manual inspections of life jackets. For example, this embodiment can be configured to detect whether a life jacket is present under a passenger seat or in an overhead luggage compartment. Furthermore, in the aircraft industry, this embodiment can reduce the number of flights that are delayed due to inspections involving life jackets.

[0010] The embodiment may be configured to provide a visual indication when the life jacket is in its properly stored position. The embodiment may also provide a visual indication and / or an audio alarm when the life jacket is not present or detected in its designated location (e.g., the life jacket has been removed, stolen, misplaced, or damaged). For example, the embodiment may provide a notification or alarm to warn a crew member (e.g., a flight attendant) when the life jacket is no longer detected. Such notifications and alarms may prompt the crew member to verify the presence of the life jacket and / or help ensure that the life jacket is replaced or stored in its proper location. The notifications and alarms may also prevent the life jacket from being removed, misplaced, and / or stolen, thereby reducing the cost and inventory required to replace the life jacket. In addition, the embodiment may be configured to notify the crew member that the life jacket has expired or is about to expire.

[0011] In one aspect, a system for monitoring the presence of a life jacket on an aircraft is disclosed. The system may include a sensor configured to output a first signal when the sensor detects the life jacket and to output a second signal when the sensor fails to detect the life jacket. The system may also include a first visual indicator in communication with the sensor. The first visual indicator may be activated based on the first signal. Additionally, the system may also include a second visual indicator in communication with the sensor. The second visual indicator may be activated based on the second signal.

[0012] In another aspect, a method for monitoring a life jacket of an aircraft is disclosed. The method may include providing a sensor for detecting the life jacket. The method may also include outputting a first signal when the sensor detects the life jacket, and outputting a second signal when the sensor fails to detect the life jacket. In addition, the method may include activating a first color light source in response to the first signal, and activating a second color light source in response to the second signal.

[0013] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] A more complete understanding of embodiments of the present application may be obtained by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to similar elements throughout the drawings. The drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure and do not limit the breadth, scope, proportions, or applicability of the present disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0015] Figure 1 An exemplary aircraft is shown in which embodiments for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket may be implemented;

[0016] Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1 A front elevation view of a portion of a passenger cabin of the aircraft is shown;

[0017] Figure 3 A system for monitoring the presence of a life jacket under a seat is provided according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 a side view of the passenger seats of the cabin shown;

[0018] Figure 4 is a representation of a passenger cabin presented by a graphical user interface of a monitoring unit according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0019] Figure 5is a schematic diagram of a circuit for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0020] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a circuit for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0021] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a circuit for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket according to another exemplary embodiment; and

[0022] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a method for detecting or monitoring the presence of life jackets in a passenger cabin of an aircraft according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The accompanying drawings and the following description illustrate specific exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that those skilled in the art will be able to design various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles described herein and are included within the scope of the claims following this description. In addition, any examples described herein are intended to aid in understanding the principles of the present disclosure and are to be interpreted as not limiting. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments or examples described below, but is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0024] Detailed descriptions are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, common features are represented by common reference numerals throughout the drawings. In some drawings, multiple instances of a particular type of feature may be used. Although the features are physically and / or logically different, the same reference numeral is used for each feature, and different instances are distinguished by adding a letter to the reference numeral. When features are referred to herein as a group or type (for example, when a specific one of the features is not mentioned), the reference numeral is used without a distinguishing letter. However, when a specific one of multiple features of the same type is referred to herein, the reference numeral is used with a distinguishing letter. For example, reference numerals are used in conjunction with distinguishing letters. Figure 2 , a console unit is shown and associated with reference numeral 214. When referring to a specific one of the console units, such as console unit 214A, a distinguishing letter "A" may be used. However, when referring to any one of the console units or to the console units as a group, reference numeral 214 may be used without a distinguishing letter.

[0025] As used herein, each term is only used for the purpose of describing a specific implementation and is not intended to be restrictive. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms. In addition, the terms "comprise", "comprises" and "comprising" are used interchangeably with "include", "includes" or "including". In addition, the term "wherein" is used interchangeably with the term "wherein". As used herein, "exemplary" indicates an example, implementation and / or aspect, and should not be interpreted as limiting or indicating a preference or preferred implementation. As used herein, ordinal terms (e.g., "first", "second", "third", etc.) used to modify elements (such as structures, components, operations, etc.) do not themselves indicate any priority or order of the element relative to another element, but only distinguish the element from another element with the same name (but for the use of ordinal terms). As used herein, the term "set" refers to a grouping of one or more elements, and the term "plurality" refers to a plurality of elements.

[0026] The present application is directed to embodiments involving systems, methods, and apparatus for detecting or monitoring the presence of objects or items, such as life jackets. The embodiments can automatically and continuously monitor or detect the presence of life jackets stored on a vehicle, such as an aircraft. By providing verification that a life jacket is present in a specified location, the embodiments can ensure compliance with airline safety regulations.

[0027] This embodiment can reduce the number of manual inspections involving life jackets, reduce the labor costs of the inspections, and reduce the time to complete the inspections. In addition, this embodiment can reduce the possibility of human error associated with manual inspections involving life jackets. For example, this embodiment can be configured to detect whether a life jacket is present under a passenger seat or in an overhead storage compartment. In addition, in the aircraft industry, this embodiment can reduce the number of flights that are delayed due to inspections involving life jackets.

[0028] The embodiment may be configured to provide a visual indication when the life jacket is in its properly stored location. The embodiment may also provide a visual indication and / or an audio alarm when the life jacket is not present or detected in its designated location (e.g., the life jacket has been removed, stolen, misplaced, or damaged). For example, the embodiment may provide a notification or alarm to warn a crew member (e.g., a flight attendant) when the life jacket is no longer detected. Such notifications and alarms may prompt the crew member to verify the presence of the life jacket and / or help ensure that the life jacket is replaced or stored in its proper location. The notifications and alarms may also prevent the life jacket from being removed, misplaced, and / or stolen, thereby reducing the cost and inventory required to replace the life jacket. In addition, the embodiment may be configured to notify the crew member that the life jacket has expired or is about to expire.

[0029] Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to Figure 1 , shows an example aircraft 100 in which the systems, methods, and apparatus disclosed herein may be implemented. Figure 1 The aircraft 100 includes a fuselage 102 having a left side 104, a right side 106, a nose end 108, and a tail end 110. A first wing 112 is coupled to the left side 104 of the fuselage 102. A second wing 114 is coupled to the right side 106 of the fuselage 102. In the illustrated example, the aircraft 100 includes a door 116 disposed on the left side 104 of the fuselage 102. Passengers and / or crew members may enter (e.g., board) and / or exit (e.g., deplane) the aircraft 100 via the door 116. Figure 1 The aircraft 100 is merely an example, and thus, other aircraft may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it is contemplated that the systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein may be used in other transportation vehicles, such as boats, buses, and trains.

[0030] Figure 2 shows an aircraft (such as Figure 1 2. A front view of a passenger cabin 200 of an aircraft 100 (shown in FIG. 1 ). The passenger cabin 200 may include walls 202, a ceiling 204, a floor 206, windows 208, passenger seats 210, overhead storage boxes 212, and a console unit 214. The walls 202 of the passenger cabin 200 may be connected to the ceiling 204, and the windows 208 may be formed in the walls 202. The overhead storage boxes 212 may be secured to the ceiling 204 and / or the walls 202 of the passenger cabin 200 on either side of an aisle 216. The overhead storage boxes 212 may extend between the front and rear ends of the passenger cabin 200 and may be positioned above the passenger seats 210. The overhead storage boxes 212 may be configured to pivotally open to accept carry-on luggage or other items from passengers.

[0031] like Figure 2As shown, the floor 206 of the cabin 200 can support passenger seats 210. The cabin 200 can include multiple rows of passenger seats 210. In the example shown, each row of passenger seats 210 can include two seats on either side of an aisle 216. In other examples, each row can include more or fewer passenger seats than shown. In addition, the cabin 200 can include more aisles than shown. The console unit 214 can be positioned above the passenger seats 210 in a row.

[0032] Each passenger seat 210 may have a storage container 218 attached to the bottom or underside of the passenger seat 210. The storage container 218 may include a shell or frame 220 that at least partially defines an interior storage area or storage compartment. Each storage container 218 may be used to store a life jacket 222. The storage container 218 may also store other safety equipment, such as medical equipment, food, etc. During an emergency, an occupant of the passenger seat 210 may easily access the storage container 218 to access the life jacket 222. In addition, the storage container 218 may be configured to be attached to a seat in other vehicles, such as a boat, ship, or train, where it is desirable to secure safety equipment, such as a life jacket, to prevent damage and removal.

[0033] like Figure 3 As shown, the sensor 224 can be configured to detect or monitor the presence or status of the life jacket 222 in the storage container 218. The sensor 224 can be configured to output one or more signals to the console unit 214A via one or more wires 226. In some examples, a wireless communication module (not shown) can wirelessly communicate or transmit the signal to the console unit 214A. The specific placement of the sensor 224 on or near the storage container 218 can vary depending on the configuration of the storage container 218, as long as the sensor 224 can detect or sense the presence of the life jacket 222 set in the storage container 218. The sensor 224 can be any suitable type of sensor. For example, the sensor 224 can include a magnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, a limit switch sensor, a capacitive sensor, an eddy current sensor, an inductive sensor, an optical sensor, or other suitable sensors.

[0034] The sensor 224 may be configured to output a first signal when the sensor 224 detects the presence of the life jacket 222, and to output a second signal when the sensor 224 fails to detect the life jacket 222. The sensor 224 may have a switch configured to be movable between a first position or state and a second position or state. When the sensor 224 detects the presence of the life jacket 222, the switch may be in the first position. In the first position, the sensor 224 may enable a voltage to be applied to the first circuit path. When the life jacket 222 is removed or damaged, the sensor 224 may fail to detect the presence of the life jacket 222, and the switch may be moved from the first position to the second position. In the second position, the sensor 224 may enable a voltage to be applied to the second circuit path, as further described below.

[0035] The sensor 224 may include an actuator configured to actuate a switch of the sensor 224. The actuator may have a depressed position and an extended position. When the life jacket 222 contacts or engages the actuator, the actuator may be in the depressed position to move the switch of the sensor 224 to a first position or state and apply a voltage to a first circuit path. When the life jacket 222 is separated from the sensor 224, the actuator will extend into an undepressed position and move the switch of the sensor 224 to a second position or state and apply a voltage to a second circuit path.

[0036] In some examples, the sensor 224 may be a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be placed within a predetermined distance from the life jacket 222. The proximity sensor may be used to determine whether the life jacket 222 has been separated or moved away from the sensor 224. For example, the sensor 224 may output a first signal to indicate that the life jacket is sufficiently close to the sensor 224. When the life jacket 222 is moved away from the proximity sensor by a predetermined distance, the sensor 224 may not or cannot detect the presence of the life jacket, and output a second signal to indicate that the life jacket 222 has been removed or damaged. In some examples, the proximity sensor may be configured to detect a tag or element (e.g., a magnet) attached to the life jacket 222. The tag or element may be passive and may not require its own power source.

[0037] like Figure 3As shown, the console unit 214A can receive or detect signals from the sensor 224 via one or more wires 226. The console unit 214A can include a housing 228, which typically contains one or more indicators 230 and / or visual or audio alarms 232. The indicator 230 can provide a real-time visual indication of the presence or status of the life jacket 222 disposed below the passenger seat 210A. The indicator 230 can be visible from the aisle or within a row of passenger seats 210. The audio alarm 232 of the console unit 214A can be deactivated by a switch device (not shown). The console unit 214A can also include vents, reading lights, oxygen bag drop panels, crew request buttons, and / or other suitable controls for use by passengers of the passenger seats.

[0038] The indicator 230 of the console unit 214A can be configured to indicate whether the life jacket 222 is detected (e.g., because the life jacket is properly stored) or not detected (e.g., because the life jacket 222 has been stolen, misplaced, vandalized, removed, or improperly stored). The indicator 230 can also indicate whether the life jacket is expired. Figure 3 As shown, the indicator 230 of the console unit 214A may include at least a first indicator 234 and a second indicator 236. The first indicator 234 may be configured to indicate that the life jacket 222 disposed under the passenger seat 210A is present, properly stored, and not expired. The first indicator 234 may include a light source indicator (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED)) that may be illuminated in different colors. For example, the first indicator 234 may display green.

[0039] The second indicator 236 of the console unit 214A can be configured to indicate that the life jacket disposed under the passenger seat 210A has been damaged, removed, and / or expired. The second indicator 236 can include a light source indicator (e.g., an LED) that can be illuminated with different colors. For example, the second indicator 236 can display red. In some examples, when the life jacket 222 is properly stored but is about to expire, the second indicator 236 can display yellow. Therefore, the second indicator 236 can warn the crew that the life jacket 222 should be checked and / or replaced. In addition, the second indicator 236 can warn the crew members to investigate when the life jacket 222 is damaged by a passenger or removed from its storage location, thereby preventing theft and / or ensuring that the life jacket 222 is properly stored or replaced.

[0040] In some examples, the console unit 214A may include a single light indicator (e.g., LED) configured to display multiple colors. For example, the light indicator may display a first color (e.g., green) to indicate that the life jacket 222 disposed under the passenger seat 210A is properly stored and has not expired. The light indicator may display a second color (e.g., red) to indicate that the life jacket displayed under the passenger seat 210A has been removed, damaged, and / or expired. In some examples, the light indicator may display a third color (e.g., yellow) when the life jacket is about to expire.

[0041] Reference now Figure 4 , shows a schematic diagram of a monitoring unit or inspection system 400 for detecting and / or monitoring the presence of life jackets in the cabin of an aircraft according to an illustrative example. The monitoring unit 400 can be located in the crew area and / or cockpit of the aircraft. The monitoring unit 400 can receive input from a sensor or circuit that detects the presence of a life jacket under each seat provided in the cabin of the aircraft. The monitoring unit 400 can also generate a report on compliance with safety regulations related to life jackets. The report can include a list of all life jackets detected under each passenger seat (e.g., life jackets are present and properly stored) and a list of life jackets that could not be detected (e.g., life jackets have been stolen, misplaced, vandalized, removed, or improperly stored).

[0042] like Figure 4 As shown, the monitoring unit 400 may include a display 402 presenting a graphical user interface (GUI) 404, the GUI 404 being configured to depict a representation of a cabin 406 of an aircraft. The GUI 404 may depict a cockpit 408, a crew area 410, and a passenger cabin 412 of the aircraft. As shown, the representation of the passenger cabin 412 displayed on the GUI may include a representation of passenger seats 414 in the cabin 406, including a visual or graphical indicator 416 associated with a life jacket for each passenger seat. The GUI 404 may display the stowage status, expiration status, and damage status of each life jacket disposed beneath a passenger seat in the passenger cabin 406.

[0043] The GUI 404 of the monitoring unit 400 can enable a crew member (e.g., a flight attendant, etc.) to continuously monitor the presence or status of life jackets in the cabin 406 from a single location without having to enter through the cabin 412 to visually inspect the life jackets. In addition, the GUI 404 can enable the crew member to quickly identify whether the life jackets are properly stored under each passenger seat. For example, a visual indicator 416 displayed on the GUI 404 can indicate which life jackets are detected under each passenger seat (e.g., life jackets are present and properly stored) or which life jackets cannot be detected (e.g., life jackets have been stolen, misplaced, vandalized, removed, or not properly stored). In addition, the crew member can perform an inspection of the life jackets disposed under the passenger seats in the cabin 406 by viewing the visual indicator 416 displayed on the GUI 404 to verify and confirm the presence or status of the life jackets.

[0044] The GUI 404 of the monitoring unit 400 may also display a visual or graphical indicator indicating that the life jackets have expired and need to be replaced. When the visual indicator on the GUI 404 shows that one or more life jackets have expired, the crew member may then replace the life jackets. The GUI 404 may also display a visual or graphical indicator indicating that the life jackets will soon expire. In some examples, the GUI 404 may display the visual indicators and other information about each life jacket in a list or table. For example, the table may include the seat number and the storage status, the expiration date, the expiration status, and / or the damage status.

[0045] In addition, the monitoring unit 400 can provide an alarm or notification in real time when a life jacket has been damaged or removed from under a passenger seat. When a life jacket has been damaged by a passenger or removed from its designated storage location, such an alarm and notification can prompt a crew member (e.g., a flight attendant) to investigate and perform an inspection to prevent theft and / or help ensure that the life jacket is returned to its proper storage location or replaced. The monitoring unit 400 can record the time when the life jacket was removed and from which seat. If the life jacket is not replaced, the airline can charge the passenger sitting in the seat for the loss of the life jacket or initiate an investigation. In addition, when the life jacket expires, the monitoring unit 400 can issue an audio alarm or other notification so that the crew member can immediately replace the life jacket. In an emergency, the alarm can be muted or overridden. For example, the alarm can be deactivated by a switch device (not shown).

[0046] Reference now Figures 5 to 7 , a schematic diagram of a circuit for detecting or monitoring the presence or status of an item or merchandise such as a life jacket is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5A schematic diagram of a circuit 500 for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket disposed under a passenger seat of a vehicle, such as an aircraft, is shown. The circuit 500 includes a voltage source 502, a magnetic sensor 504, a resistor 506, a first light indicator 508 (e.g., a first LED), and a second light indicator 510 (e.g., a second LED). The magnetic sensor 504 may be configured to detect changes in a magnetic field.

[0047] In the example shown, a magnet may be attached to the life jacket, and the magnetic sensor 504 may sense or detect the proximity of the magnet to the magnetic sensor 504. When the magnet on the life jacket is in close proximity to the magnetic sensor 504, the contact 511 of the magnetic sensor 504 may contact the terminal 512 to activate the first light indicator 508. The first light indicator 508 may indicate that the life jacket is detected and that the life jacket is properly stored. The first light indicator 508 may display green.

[0048] When the magnet attached to the life jacket moves away from the magnetic sensor 504 by a predetermined distance, the contact 511 of the magnetic sensor 504 contacts the terminal 514 to activate the second light indicator 510. The second light indicator 510 can indicate that the life jacket is not detected. The second light indicator 510 can display red. The illumination of the second light indicator 510 can indicate that the life jacket is not detected or exists. For example, the illumination of the second light indicator 510 can warn the crew that the life jacket set under the passenger seat may be damaged or removed. Therefore, the crew can take action to remedy the situation. The circuit 500 can also include an alarm 516 to warn the crew that the life jacket may be damaged or removed. The switch 518 of the circuit 500 can be used to deactivate the alarm.

[0049] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a circuit 600 for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket disposed beneath a passenger seat of a vehicle, such as an aircraft, is shown. The circuit 600 includes a voltage source 602, a limit switch sensor 604, a resistor 606, a first light indicator 608 (e.g., a first LED), and a second light indicator 610 (e.g., a second LED). The limit switch sensor 604 is configured to detect or sense whether the limit switch sensor 604 engages or contacts the life jacket. For example, the limit switch sensor 604 may include an actuator that moves a switch 611 between a first position or state and a second position or state. The actuator of the limit switch sensor 604 may have a depressed position and an extended position.

[0050] When the life jacket contacts or engages the actuator of the limit switch sensor 604, the actuator may be in a depressed position to move the switch 611 to a first position or state. In the first position, the switch 611 of the limit switch sensor 604 may contact the terminal 612 to illuminate the first light indicator 608 (e.g., a first LED) to a color. The first light indicator 608 may display green. The illumination of the first light indicator 608 may indicate that the life jacket is detected and that the life jacket is properly stowed.

[0051] When the life jacket is separated from the limit switch sensor 604, the actuator will extend to the non-depressed position and move the switch 611 to the second position or state. In the second position, the switch 611 of the limit switch sensor 604 can contact the terminal 614 to illuminate the second light indicator 610 as a color. The second light indicator 610 (e.g., the second LED) can display red. The illumination of the second light indicator 610 can indicate that the life jacket cannot be detected. For example, the activation of the second light indicator 610 can warn the crew that the life jacket issued under the seat may be removed or damaged. Therefore, the crew can take action to remedy the situation. The circuit 600 can also include an alarm 616 to warn the crew members that the life jacket may be damaged or removed. The switch 618 of the circuit 600 can be used to deactivate the alarm.

[0052] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a circuit 700 for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket in a vehicle, such as an aircraft, is shown. The circuit 700 includes a voltage source 702, a proximity sensor 704, a resistor 706, a relay 708, a diode 710, an alarm 712, a first light indicator 714 (e.g., a first LED), and a second light indicator 716 (e.g., a second LED). The proximity sensor 704 can sense or detect the proximity of a life jacket relative to the proximity sensor 704.

[0053] When the proximity sensor 704 is in close proximity to the life jacket, the contact 717 of the relay 708 can contact the terminal 718 to illuminate the first light indicator 714. The illumination of the first light indicator 714 can indicate that the life jacket is detected and that the life jacket is properly stored. The first light indicator 714 can display green. When the life jacket is moved away from the proximity sensor 704 by a predetermined distance, the contact 717 of the relay 708 can contact the terminal 720 to illuminate the second light indicator 716. The illumination of the second light indicator 716 can indicate that the life jacket cannot be detected. For example, the second light indicator 716 can display red. In addition, the alarm 712 can be activated to warn the crew members that the life jacket has been damaged or removed from under the passenger seat. Therefore, the crew members can take action to remedy the situation.

[0054] Figure 88 is a flow chart representing an exemplary method 800 for detecting or monitoring the presence of a life jacket disposed under a passenger seat of a vehicle, such as an aircraft. The method may be implemented using one or more of the structures depicted in the above figures, and therefore reference is made to Figures 2 to 7 Described. However, it should be understood that, unless clearly stated herein, the method is not limited to any particular structure or use. It should be understood that, although the method is described as a series of actions or events, the present teaching is not limited to the order of such actions or events. Some actions may occur in different orders and / or occur simultaneously with other actions or events other than the actions or events described herein. In addition, the method according to the present teaching may include other actions or events that have not been described for simplicity, and other actions or events shown may be removed or modified.

[0055] At block 802, the method involves providing a sensor for detecting a life jacket. The system may be configured to detect or monitor the presence of a life jacket disposed beneath a passenger seat of a vehicle. The system may include a sensor configured to detect or sense a life jacket. The sensor may be any type of sensor. For example, the sensor may include a magnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, a limit switch sensor, a capacitive sensor, an eddy current sensor, an inductive sensor, an optical sensor, or other suitable sensor.

[0056] At box 804, the method involves outputting a first signal when the sensor detects a life jacket, and at box 806, the method involves outputting a second signal when the sensor cannot detect the life jacket. The sensor may be configured to output the first signal when the sensor detects the presence of the life jacket, and to output the second signal when the sensor cannot detect the life jacket. The sensor may have a switch configured to be movable between a first position or state and a second position or state. When the sensor detects the presence of the life jacket, the switch may be in the first position. In the first position, the switch may enable a voltage to be applied to the first circuit path. When the life jacket is removed or damaged, the sensor may be unable to detect the presence of the life jacket, and the switch may be moved from the first position to the second position. In the second position, the switch may enable a voltage to be applied to the second circuit path.

[0057] At block 808, the method involves activating a first color light source in response to a first signal, and at block 810, the method involves activating a second color light source in response to a second signal. When the sensor detects a life jacket, the sensor may cause the first light source to be illuminated. The first light source indicator may display green. When the sensor does not detect a life jacket, the sensor may cause the second light source to be illuminated. The second light source indicator may display red.

[0058] The method also involves generating a visual or audible alarm when the life jacket cannot be detected. For example, a control console unit or a monitoring unit (e.g. Figure 3 The console unit 214A or Figure 4 The monitoring unit 400 of the embodiment of the present invention can provide an alarm or notification in real time when a life jacket has been tampered with or removed from under a passenger seat. When a life jacket has been tampered with by a passenger or removed from its designated storage location, such an alarm and notification can prompt a crew member (e.g., a flight attendant) to investigate and perform an inspection to prevent theft and / or help ensure that the life jacket is returned to its proper storage location or replaced.

[0059] In addition, the method may include providing an alarm when the life jacket expires. For example, the console unit or the monitoring unit may issue an audio alarm or other notification so that the crew member can immediately change the life jacket. In some examples, the monitoring unit may display information associated with the life jacket, such as a seat number, an expiration status or date, or a detection or installation status associated with the life jacket. In an emergency, the alarm may be silenced or overridden. For example, the alarm may be deactivated by a switch device.

[0060] Thus, various implementations of the present teachings provide embodiments of systems, methods, and apparatus for detecting or monitoring the presence of objects or items such as life jackets stored on an aircraft. The embodiments can automatically and continuously monitor or detect the presence of life jackets stored on a vehicle such as an aircraft. By providing verification that a life jacket is present in its proper designated location, the embodiments can ensure compliance with airline safety regulations.

[0061] This embodiment can reduce the number of manual inspections involving life jackets, reduce the labor costs of the inspections, and reduce the time to complete the inspections. In addition, this embodiment can reduce the possibility of human error associated with manual inspections involving life jackets. For example, this embodiment can be configured to detect whether a life jacket is present under a passenger seat or in an overhead storage bin. Furthermore, in the aircraft industry, this embodiment can reduce the number of flights that are delayed due to inspections involving life jackets.

[0062] The descriptions of different advantageous arrangements have been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to examples of the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. In addition, different advantageous examples describe different advantages over other advantageous examples. The selected one or more examples are selected and described in order to best explain the principles of the examples, practical applications, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present disclosure with various examples of various modifications suitable for the particular use contemplated.

[0063] Embodiment described herein can be realized with hardware, software or the combination of hardware and software.For example, this embodiment can be realized in a centralized manner in at least one computer system, or can be realized in a distributed manner that different elements are distributed across interconnected computer systems.Can adopt any kind of computer system or other equipment that is adapted to perform method described herein.In addition, embodiment described herein can be embedded in a computer program product, and this computer program product includes all features that realize the operation described herein, and when being loaded into a computer system, can perform these operations.

[0064] The flowcharts and block diagrams described herein illustrate the architecture, functions, and operations of possible implementations of the systems, methods, and devices of various illustrative embodiments. To this end, each box in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of a code, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function or multiple specified logical functions. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the box may not occur in the order indicated in the accompanying drawings. For example, depending on the functions involved, the functions of the two boxes shown in succession may be performed roughly simultaneously, or the functions of these boxes may sometimes be performed in reverse order.

[0065] In addition, in this specification, examples where one element is "coupled" to another element may include direct and indirect coupling. Direct coupling may be defined as one element being coupled to another element and being in contact with the other element. Indirect coupling may be defined as a coupling between two elements that is not in direct contact with each other, but having one or more additional elements between the coupled elements. In addition, as used herein, fixing an element to another element may include direct fixing and indirect fixing. In addition, as used herein, "adjacent" does not necessarily mean contact. For example, an element may be adjacent to another element without being in contact with the element.

[0066] As used herein, a system, device, structure, article, element, component or hardware that is "configured to" perform a specified function is indeed able to perform the specified function without any change, rather than only having the possibility of performing the specified function after further modification. In other words, a system, device, structure, article, element, component or hardware that is "configured to" perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, "configured to" represents an existing characteristic of a system, device, structure, article, element, component or hardware that enables the system, device, structure, article, element, component or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For the purposes of this disclosure, a system, device, structure, article, element, component or hardware that is described as "configured to" perform a specific function may be additionally or alternatively described as "suitable for" and / or "operable to" perform the function.

[0067] The terms "substantially" and "approximately" as used herein mean that the features, parameters or values ​​described need not be achieved precisely, but deviations or changes (including, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement precision limitations and other factors known to those skilled in the art) may occur in an amount that does not interfere with the effect that the features are intended to provide.

[0068] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," and the like are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Furthermore, reference to an item, such as "second," does not require or preclude the presence of an item, such as "first," or lower-numbered, and / or an item, such as "third," or higher-numbered.

[0069] Although the device has been described with reference to certain examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the claims. Therefore, the device is not limited to the specific examples disclosed, but the disclosed device includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for monitoring the presence of life jackets on an aircraft, comprising: a sensor configured to output a first signal when the sensor detects the life jacket and to output a second signal when the sensor fails to detect the life jacket; a first visual indicator in communication with the sensor, wherein the first visual indicator is activated based on the first signal; and A second visual indicator is in communication with the sensor, wherein the second visual indicator is activated based on the second signal.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a housing for holding the life jacket, and wherein: The sensor is coupled to the housing.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The housing is installed below a seat of the aircraft.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The first signal is output at a first output terminal of the sensor, and wherein the second signal is output at a second output terminal of the sensor.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor includes a switch movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the switch is in the first position when the sensor detects the life jacket, and wherein the switch is in the second position when the sensor fails to detect the life jacket.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor detects the life jacket when the life jacket is within a first distance from the sensor.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor is configured to provide the first signal and the second signal based on a proximity of the life jacket relative to the sensor.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor includes a switch actuator extending from the sensor, and wherein the sensor detects the life jacket when the switch actuator is pressed against the life jacket.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is configured to be attached to the life jacket, wherein the second portion is operably coupled to the first portion, and wherein the life jacket is detected based on proximity of the first portion relative to the second portion.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor is configured to detect the life jacket based on a magnetic field generated by a magnet attached to the life jacket.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor includes a magnetic sensor, a limit switch sensor, a proximity sensor or a motion sensor.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein: The first visual indicator includes a first light source configured to illuminate in a first color, and wherein the second visual indicator includes a second light source configured to illuminate in a second color.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein: The first light source is configured to be illuminated when the life jacket is in a stowed or installed state, and wherein the second light source is configured to be illuminated when the life jacket has been removed or destroyed. 14 . The system of claim 12 , further comprising a relay device configured to activate the first visual indicator or the second visual indicator based on the first signal or the second signal of the sensor.

15. The system of claim 1, further comprising an alarm, wherein: The alarm is configured to alert authorized personnel that the life jacket has been removed or tampered with.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein: The alarm is activated based on the output of the second visual indicator.

17. The system of claim 1, further comprising a tag, wherein the tag is coupled to the life vest, wherein: The sensor is configured to wirelessly receive information from the tag, and wherein the information includes a seat number, an expiration status or date, or a storage or installation status of the life jacket.

18. The system of claim 1, further comprising a monitoring unit comprising a graphical user interface, a plurality of life jacket indicators, and information associated with a plurality of the life jackets, the graphical user interface being configured to depict a representation of at least a portion of a cabin of the aircraft, wherein The information includes a seat number, an expiration status or date, or a storage or installation status associated with each of the plurality of life jackets.

19. A method for monitoring a life jacket of an aircraft, the method comprising: providing a sensor for detecting the life jacket; When the sensor detects the life jacket, the sensor outputs a first signal; When the sensor cannot detect the life jacket, the sensor outputs a second signal; activating a first color light source in response to the first signal; and A second color light source is activated in response to the second signal.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: generating a visual or audible alarm when the sensor fails to detect the life jacket; as well as Information associated with the life jacket is displayed via a monitoring unit, wherein the information includes a seat number, an expiration status or date, or a storage or installation status associated with the life jacket.

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