Dual fold barrier system and method for flight deck of aircraft
By designing a movable auxiliary barrier door system in the aircraft, the safety issues during the transition of the flight deck door are solved, and the effect of effectively preventing passengers from entering the flight deck without occupying additional space is achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411805494.0
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-01-05
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-10
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-08
AI Technical Summary
In the prior art, opening and closing of the flight deck door during the transition of the hatch will reduce the protection effect, and barriers such as kitchen carts are prone to move, resulting in the possibility of passengers entering the flight deck.
An auxiliary barrier door system for an aircraft is designed, including the movable first and second panels connected by a pivot hinge, which can switch between the sagging position and the deployed position, forming a closed safety foyer when deployed to prevent entry into the flight deck.
Provides an effective barrier during the door transition, ensuring safety of the flight deck, preventing passengers from entering while reducing the need for additional space.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Examples of the present disclosure generally relate to double - folding barrier systems and methods for a flight deck of an aircraft. Background Art
[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between different locations. Commercial aircraft include a flight deck (e.g., a cockpit) where one or more pilots operate the aircraft.
[0003] Flight deck doors are used to selectively open and close the flight deck. During flight, the flight deck door is typically locked in the closed position to prevent passengers from entering the flight deck. During flight, the flight deck door can be opened to allow crew members to access toilet facilities, dine, and / or switch positions to rest.
[0004] The opening and closing of the flight deck door (referred to as "hatch transition") reduces the protective effect of the flight deck door. In particular, when the flight deck door is open, the flight deck is typically unprotected. To ensure that passengers cannot enter the flight deck during hatch transition, a galley cart can be moved into place to provide a barrier to the flight deck. However, an individual may be able to move the galley cart and enter the flight deck. Summary of the Invention
[0005] There is a need for barrier systems and methods to prevent entry into the flight deck during hatch transition. Additionally, there is a need for an efficient and effective system and method to provide an auxiliary barrier to the flight deck.
[0006] In view of these needs, certain examples of the present disclosure provide an aircraft that includes a flight deck, the flight deck including a flight deck door configured to move between an open position and a closed position, a first monument, a second monument, and an auxiliary barrier door movably secured between the first monument and the second monument. The auxiliary barrier door is configured to fold to a stowed position and unfold to a deployed position, in which the stowed position, the path to the flight deck is open, and in the deployed position, the path to the flight deck is closed.
[0007] In at least one example, an auxiliary barrier door includes a first panel, a second panel, and a pivot hinge that pivotally couples the first panel to the second panel. When the auxiliary barrier door is in the stowed position, the first panel folds near a first volume, and the second panel folds near the first panel. In at least one example, the first panel is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling. The aircraft may also include a lower bearing and an upper bearing configured to receive and hold an end of the second panel when the auxiliary barrier door is in the deployed position. The pivot hinge may also include a lock configured to secure the auxiliary barrier door in a desired position.
[0008] In at least one example, the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position extends between a first volume and a second volume. A closed safety vestibule is provided between the flight deck, the first volume, the second volume, and the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position. The auxiliary barrier door is located in front of the passenger seating area.
[0009] In at least one example, the auxiliary barrier door includes an override device configured to allow the auxiliary barrier door to be removed.
[0010] Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a method that includes folding an auxiliary barrier door to a stowed position in which a path to a flight deck is open, and deploying the auxiliary barrier to a deployed position in which a path to the flight deck is closed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Figure 1 A simplified top view showing a portion of an interior compartment of an aircraft in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0012] Figure 2 A perspective front view showing an aircraft in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0013] Figure 3A A top plan view showing an interior compartment of an aircraft in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0014] Figure 3B A top plan view showing an interior compartment of an aircraft in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0015] Figure 4 An interior perspective view showing an interior compartment of an aircraft in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0016] Figure 5 A perspective front view showing an auxiliary barrier door in the stowed position in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0017] Figure 6 ShowsFigure 5 Perspective front view of the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position.
[0018] Figure 7 Side view of the auxiliary barrier door in the stowed position according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0019] Figure 8 Perspective top view of the auxiliary barrier door in the stowed position according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0020] Figure 9 Shows Figure 8 Perspective top view of the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position.
[0021] Figure 10 Front view of the auxiliary barrier door in the stowed position according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0022] Figure 11 Front view of the auxiliary barrier door in the first intermediate position according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0023] Figure 12 Front view of the auxiliary barrier door in the second intermediate position according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0024] Figure 13 Front view of the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0025] Figure 14 Perspective view of the lower part of the auxiliary barrier door according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0026] Figure 15 Perspective view of the upper pivot bearing mounted to the ceiling according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0027] Figure 16 Perspective view of the override device fixed to the first panel according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0028] Figure 17 Partial exploded perspective view of the override device according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0029] Figure 18 Perspective view of the override device according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0030] Figure 19 Perspective view of the upper bearing holding the upper end of the second panel according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0031] Figure 20 Perspective view of the lower bearing holding the lower end of the second panel according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0032] Figure 21 Shows a plan view of a bearing holding an end of a second panel according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0033] Figure 22 Shows a flowchart of a method according to an example of the present disclosure. Detailed Description
[0034] When read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the above Summary of the Invention and the following Detailed Description of certain embodiments will be better understood. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should not necessarily be construed as excluding a plurality of elements or steps. Moreover, a reference to "one embodiment" does not mean that the existence of other embodiments that also incorporate the recited features is excluded. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, an embodiment that "comprises" or "has" one or more elements with a particular condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.
[0035] Figure 1 Shows a simplified top view of a portion of an interior compartment 100 of an aircraft 102 according to an example of the present disclosure. The interior compartment 100 includes a flight deck 104 (e.g., a cockpit) in which one or more pilots operate the aircraft 102. The main flight deck door 106 is configured to open and close to selectively permit and prevent access to the flight deck 104. The flight deck door 106 is typically reinforced and configured to lock securely in the closed position. The flight deck door 106 generally extends between the floor 107 of the interior compartment 100 and the frame and extends into the frame so as to reduce any open area between the floor 107 and the frame in the closed position. The flight deck door 106 is configured to pivot about a pivot axis 108 (e.g., by one or more hinges) between an open position and a closed position. The pivot axis 108 is generally perpendicular to the floor 107. In this way, the flight deck door 106 is configured to pivot about a vertical axis between an open position and a closed position.
[0036] To protect the flight deck 104 during hatch transitions, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is movably coupled relative to one or more cubic spaces 112 (e.g., a first cubic space), 114 (e.g., a second cubic space) that are located behind (i.e., set backward) the flight deck 104. For example, the cubic space 112 can be a bulkhead, a lavatory, a closet, a galley, etc. Similarly, the cubic space 114 can be a bulkhead, a lavatory, a closet, a galley, etc. The cubic space 112 is separated from the cubic space 114 by an aisle 116. The auxiliary barrier door 110 can be movably fixed to the cubic space 110 and / or 112. As another example, the auxiliary barrier door 110 can be movably fixed to the floor and / or ceiling and spaced apart from the cubic space 110 and / or 112.
[0037] The auxiliary barrier door 110 includes a first panel 118 that is pivotally coupled to a second panel 120 by a pivot hinge 122 (e.g., which can include one or more shafts pivotally held within one or more sleeves). The first panel 118 and the second panel 120 can be the same size and shape. Optionally, the first panel 118 can be larger or smaller than the second panel 120.
[0038] The pivot hinge 122 defines a pivot axis 123. For example, the pivot hinge 122 can include a single shaft pivotally held within a single reciprocating sleeve. As another example, the pivot hinge 122 can include two or more coaxial shafts pivotally held within two or more reciprocating sleeves. The first panel 118 includes a first end 124 and a second end 126. The first end 124 is pivotally coupled to one or more pivot bearings 128 that define a pivot axis 130. The (one or more) pivot bearings 128 are fixed to one or more of the floor 107, ceiling, and / or cubic space 114. The second end 126 of the first panel 118 is coupled to the pivot hinge 122. The second panel 120 includes a first end 132 coupled to the pivot hinge 122 and a second end 134 located at the distal end of the pivot hinge 122.
[0039] In operation, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is configured to pivotally move between a stowed position 136, in which the auxiliary barrier door 110 is open, and a deployed position 138, in which the auxiliary barrier door 110 is closed. In the stowed position, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is folded relative to the cubic space 114. In particular, in the stowed position, the first panel 118 is substantially parallel (e.g., within + / - 5 degrees) to the wall 140, and the second panel 120 is folded relative to the first panel 118 to be substantially parallel (such as within + / - 5 degrees) to the first panel 118. The first panel 118 and the second panel 120 are configured to fold relative to each other by the pivot hinge 122.
[0040] In at least one example, in the stowed position, the first panel 118 is adjacent (e.g., abuts) to the wall 140 of the three-dimensional space 114, and the second panel 120 is adjacent (e.g., abuts) to the first panel 118. Optionally, in the stowed position, the first panel 118 may be spaced apart from the wall 140 by a certain distance (e.g., 2 inches or less), and the second panel 120 may be spaced apart from the first panel 118 by a certain distance (e.g., 2 inches or less).
[0041] To close the auxiliary barrier door 110, grasp the second end 134 of the second panel 120 (e.g., via a handle) and move through the aisle 116 towards the three-dimensional space 112. As the second panel 120 moves towards the three-dimensional space 112, the pivot hinge 122 rotates in the direction of arc A, while the first panel 118 pivots about the pivot axis 130 in the direction of arc B, thereby deploying the auxiliary barrier door 110. As the auxiliary barrier door 110 continues to deploy in this manner, the second panel 120 extends towards the three-dimensional space 112, and the first panel 118 and the second panel 120 continue to pivot about the pivot hinge 122 towards an aligned coplanar state until the second end 134 of the second panel 120 reaches the three-dimensional space 112. When the second panel 120 reaches the three-dimensional space 112, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is fully extended (and deployed), such that the auxiliary barrier door 110 is in the deployed position (and the closed position).
[0042] To move the auxiliary barrier door 110 from the deployed position 138 to the stowed position 136, the process is reversed. Specifically, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is pivoted to the folded position and stowed near the three-dimensional space 114, thereby providing an open path for the flight deck 104 (which may keep the main flight deck door 106 in the closed position).
[0043] As described herein, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is configured to pivotally move between the stowed position 136 and the deployed position 138. The auxiliary barrier door 110 includes a first panel 118 that is pivotally coupled to the second panel 120, for example, via a pivot hinge 122. In the stowed position 136, the first panel 118 and the second panel 120 are folded relative to each other and relative to the three-dimensional space 114. In the deployed position 138, the first panel 118 and the second panel 120 are deployed to extend between the three-dimensional space 114 and the three-dimensional space 112.
[0044] In the stowed position 136, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is open such that the path 144 to the cockpit 104 is open. The path 144 can be the front end 146 of the aisle 116 within the interior compartment 100. In the deployed position 138, the auxiliary barrier door 110 extends through the path 144 between the three-dimensional spaces 112 and 114, thereby providing a closed barrier that prevents access to the flight deck 104.
[0045] In the deployed position 110b, the auxiliary barrier door 110 extends between the three-dimensional spaces 112 and 114. In the deployed position, the second end 134 can be securely coupled to one or more interacting structures, such as latches, bearings, etc. that hold the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position 138. For example, the end 134 of the second panel 120 of the auxiliary barrier door 110 is fixed to one or more securing devices, such as (one or more) latches or (one or more) locks (e.g., on the floor, ceiling, and / or in the three-dimensional space 112), to securely lock the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position 138. The (one or more) securing devices can be latches, bearings, manual locks, electronic locks, electromechanical locks, etc. The second panel 120 of the auxiliary barrier door 110 can also include a handle, strap, etc. that is configured to allow an individual to grasp the auxiliary barrier door 100 and deploy the auxiliary barrier door 110 into the deployed position 138 and fold the auxiliary barrier door 110 into the stowed position 136.
[0046] When the auxiliary barrier door 110 (which is located behind the flight deck door 106) is in the deployed position 110b, a closed safety foyer 150 is defined between the flight deck 104, the three-dimensional space 112, the three-dimensional space 114, and the auxiliary barrier door 110. The closed safety foyer 150 is separated from the passenger seating area 151 of the interior compartment 100. Thus, the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position 138 provides a safety barrier that prevents access to the flight deck 104 even when the flight deck door 106 is in the open position.
[0047] The auxiliary barrier door 110 is located in front of the passenger seating area 151 (i.e., closer to the front end of the aircraft 102). The auxiliary barrier door 110 is not within the passenger seating area 151. Instead, the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position prevents access from the passenger seating area 151 to the closed safety foyer 150.
[0048] In at least one example, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is coupled to the floor 107, ceiling, and / or the three-dimensional space 114 via (one or more) pivot bearings 128 without tracks. That is, no guide rails are required. Instead, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is configured to move between the stowed position 136 and the deployed position 138 without using tracks, retaining frames, etc.
[0049] As shown, the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the stowed position 136 is folded near (e.g., against) the three-dimensional space 114. Optionally, the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the stowed position 136 can be folded adjacent to (e.g., against) the three-dimensional space 112 and is configured to extend to the deployed position 138 toward the three-dimensional space 114.
[0050] As described herein, the aircraft 102 includes an interior cabin 100 having a flight deck 104 that includes a flight deck door 106 configured to move between an open position and a closed position. The interior cabin 100 also includes a first three-dimensional space 112 or 114 and a second three-dimensional space 114 or 112. The auxiliary barrier door 110 is movably secured between the first three-dimensional space 112 or 114 and the second three-dimensional space 114 or 112. The auxiliary barrier door 110 is configured to fold to the stowed position 136 and deploy to the deployed position 138, in which the path 144 to the flight deck 104 is open, and in the deployed position 138, the path 144 to the flight deck 104 is closed. In at least one example, the auxiliary barrier door 110 includes a first panel 118, a second panel 120, and a pivot hinge 122 that pivotally couples the first panel 118 to the second panel 120. In at least one example, when the auxiliary barrier door 110 is in the stowed position 136, the first panel 118 is folded near the three-dimensional space 114, and the second panel 120 is folded near the first panel 118. The auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position 138 extends between the first three-dimensional space 112 or 114 and the second three-dimensional space 114 or 112. A closed safety lobby 150 is defined between the flight deck 104, the first three-dimensional space 112 or 114, the second three-dimensional space 114 or 112, and the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position 138.
[0051] Figure 2 A perspective front view of an aircraft 210 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. The aircraft 210 is an example of the aircraft 102, as Figure 1 shown. The aircraft 210 includes a propulsion system 212 that, for example, includes engines 214. Optionally, the propulsion system 212 can include more engines 214 than shown. The engines 214 are carried by the wings 216 of the aircraft 210. In other examples, the engines 214 can be carried by the fuselage 218 and / or the tail wing 220. The tail wing 220 can also support a horizontal stabilizer 222 and a vertical stabilizer 224.
[0052] The fuselage 218 of the aircraft 210 defines an interior cabin 230 that includes a flight deck, one or more work sections (such as a galley, a carry-on luggage area, etc.), one or more passenger sections (such as first class, business class, and economy class), one or more lavatories, and so on. The interior cabin 230 is an example of the interior cabin 100, as Figure 1 shown.
[0053] Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, examples of the present disclosure can be used with a variety of other transportation vehicles, such as cars, buses, locomotives, and railroad cars, boats, and so on. Additionally, examples of the present disclosure can be used for fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.
[0054] Figure 3A shows a top plan view of an interior cabin 230 of an aircraft according to an example of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 230 can be within the fuselage 232 of the aircraft (such as Figure 2 the fuselage 218). For example, one or more fuselage walls can define the interior cabin 230. The interior cabin 230 includes a plurality of areas, including a front section 233, a first class section 234, a business class section 236, one or more galley stations, an extended economy or economy class section 240, a standard economy class section 242, and a rear section 244. It should be understood that the interior cabin 230 can include more or fewer areas than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 can not include first class and can include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each section can be separated by a cabin transition area that can include a cabin partition assembly between aisles.
[0055] As Figure 3A shown, the interior cabin 230 includes two aisles 250 and 252 leading to the rear section 244. Optionally, the interior cabin 230 can have fewer or more aisles than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 can include a single aisle extending through the center of the interior cabin 230 and leading to the rear section 244.
[0056] Figure 3B shows a top plan view of an interior cabin 280 of an aircraft according to an example of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 280 is Figure 2 an example of the interior cabin 230 shown in
[0057] The interior compartment 280 may include a single aisle 284 leading to the rear section 285. The single aisle 284 may extend through the center of the interior compartment 280 to the rear section 285. For example, the single aisle 284 may be coaxially aligned with the central longitudinal plane of the interior compartment 280. The aisle may optionally be offset from the centerline of the fuselage.
[0058] Figure 4 An interior perspective view of an interior compartment 300 of an aircraft according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. The interior compartment 300 is Figure 1 an example of the interior compartment 100 shown. The interior compartment 300 includes outer sidewalls 302 connected to a ceiling 304. Windows 306 may be formed within the outer sidewalls 302. A floor 308 supports rows of seats 310. As Figure 4 shown, a row 312 may include two seats 310 on either side of an aisle 313. However, a row 312 may include more or fewer seats 310 than shown. Additionally, the interior compartment 300 may include more aisles than shown.
[0059] A flight deck door 316 is located at the rear end of the flight deck. The flight deck door 316 in the closed position closes off access to the flight deck.
[0060] An overhead storage bin assembly 318 is fixed to the ceiling 304 and / or the outer sidewalls 302. The overhead storage bin assembly 318 is fixed above the seats 310. The overhead storage bin assembly 318 extends between the front and rear ends of the interior compartment 300. Each storage bin assembly 318 may include a pivotable bin or bucket 320 pivotally fixed to a strong back panel. The overhead storage bin assembly 318 is configured to pivot open to accommodate, for example, carry-on luggage and personal items of passengers.
[0061] Figure 5 A perspective front view of an auxiliary barrier door 110 in a stowed position 136 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 A perspective view of the Figure 5 auxiliary barrier door 110 in a deployed position 138 is shown. Figure 7 A side view of the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the stowed position 136 is shown. Figure 8 A perspective top view of the auxiliary barrier door 110 in a stowed position according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 9 A perspective top view of the Figure 8 auxiliary barrier door 110 in a deployed position is shown.
[0062] Reference Figures 5 - 9, the sizes and shapes of the first panel 118 and the second panel 120 can be set to be the same. For example, the first panel 118 and the second panel 120 can be a mirror image structure. Optionally, the sizes and shapes of the first panel 118 and the second panel 120 can be set to be different from each other.
[0063] In at least one example, the pivot hinge 122 is disposed between the central portions of the first panel 118 and the second panel 120. The pivot hinge 122 can also include a fixing device, such as a lock 125, which is configured to selectively lock the auxiliary barrier door 110 in a desired position, such as the stowed position 136 and / or the deployed position 138. In at least one example, the pivot hinge 122 can be a piano hinge. The pivot hinge 122 is configured to couple the first panel 118 to the second panel 120 and can include a lock 125 that securely locks the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position 138. The lock 125 can be engaged by a user to selectively lock and unlock the pivot hinge 122. Optionally, the pivot hinge 122 may not include a lock.
[0064] The first panel 118 is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing 128a fixed to the floor 107 and an upper pivot bearing 128b fixed to the ceiling 109. The lower bearing 160a is fixed to the floor 107 near the three-dimensional space 112, and the upper bearing 160b is fixed to the ceiling 109 near the three-dimensional space 112. The lower bearing 160a and the upper bearing 160b are configured to accommodate and hold the ends 134 in the lower region and the upper region, respectively, when the auxiliary barrier door 110 is in the deployed position 138. Optionally, only the bearing 160a or the bearing 160b can be used. In at least one other example, the auxiliary barrier door 110 does not engage any bearing.
[0065] As shown, the second panel 120 can include a handle 164, and the handle 164 can be disposed on both sides of the second panel 120. The handle 164 allows an individual to grasp the second panel 120 and easily move the auxiliary barrier door 110 between the stowed position 136 and the deployed position 138.
[0066] As described herein, the auxiliary barrier door 110 includes a first panel 118 that is pivotally coupled to a second panel 120 to provide a bi-fold door that can extend between the floor 107 and the ceiling 109. In the stowed position 136, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is folded such that the rear 178 of the first panel 118 (i.e., the surface configured to face the rear when the auxiliary barrier door 100 is in the deployed position 138) faces the rear 180 of the second panel 120. In the stowed position 136, the rear 178 is adjacent to (and may abut) the rear 180. Additionally, in the stowed position 136, the front 182 of the first panel 118 (i.e., the surface configured to face the front when the auxiliary barrier door 110 is in the deployed position 138) is adjacent to the wall 140 of the recess 114, while the front 184 of the second panel 120 faces the recess 112 and is spaced apart from the recess 112.
[0067] The first panel 118 and the second panel 120 may also include an opening 190, such as an open channel, window, screen, etc., formed therethrough. The opening 190 allows for observation therethrough. Optionally, one or both of the first panel 118 and / or the second panel 120 may not include an opening.
[0068] Figure 10 A front view of the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the stowed position 136 is shown. Figure 11 A front view of the auxiliary barrier door 110 in a first intermediate position is shown. Figure 12 A front view of the auxiliary barrier door 110 in a second intermediate position is shown. Figure 13 A front view of the auxiliary barrier door 110 in the deployed position is shown. Figures 10 - 13 The views shown are looking rearward from a position within the flight deck 104. As described herein, in the stowed position 136, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is folded near the recess 114. To move the auxiliary barrier door 110 to the deployed position 138, the auxiliary barrier door 110 pivots about the pivot hinge 122 and extends into the recess 112.
[0069] Figure 14 A perspective view of the lower portion of the auxiliary barrier door 110 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. The lower pivot bearing 128a may include a base 400 mounted to the floor 107. A pivot 402 extends upward from the base 400. A portion of the pivot 402 is pivotally held within a reciprocating retainer 404 (such as a sleeve, cuff, tube, etc.) of the first panel 118. The upper pivot bearing 128b may be similarly configured and fixed to the ceiling 109, as described with respect to Figures 5 - 9 described.
[0070] Figure 15Shows a perspective view of the upper pivot bearing 128b mounted to the ceiling 109 according to an example of the present disclosure. In this example, the upper pivot bearing 128b can be fixed to the ceiling 109 using a standard insert (or joint assist support). The upper pivot bearing 128b houses an upper pin 410 that extends upward from the first panel 118. The upper pivot bearing 128b can be configured to constrain the pin 410 in two axes (e.g., the X-axis and Y-axis), but allow linear movement in a third axis (e.g., the Z-axis). The upper pivot bearing 128b can allow the use of slotted features during installation to align / adjust the axis of rotation. The upper pivot bearing 128b can also include a damper, such as an elastomeric damper, to reduce noise during operation.
[0071] Figure 16 Shows a perspective view of the override device 500 fixed to the first panel 118 according to an example of the present disclosure. In at least one example, the auxiliary barrier door 110 includes an override device, such as the override device 500. If desired, the override device 500 is configured to allow for the complete removal of the auxiliary barrier door 110. The override device 500 can be fixed at the lower and upper ends of the first panel 118. As an example, the override device 500 can include a compression spring 502 and an accessible cap screw 506, the compression spring being configured to engage a pivot pin or shaft 504, the cap screw providing a release mechanism. The cap screw 506 can be engaged to compress the spring 502 and disengage the shaft 504, thereby allowing the first panel 118 (and thus the auxiliary barrier door 110) to be removed from the pivot bearing.
[0072] Figure 17 Shows a partial exploded perspective view of the override device 500 according to an example of the present disclosure. In this example, a cover plate 508 can be used to cover the cap screw 506. The cover plate 508 can be fastened to the housing with captive thumb screws 512.
[0073] Figure 18 Shows a perspective view of the override device 500 according to an example of the present disclosure. In this example, the override device 500 can be a rotating mechanism 520 or otherwise include a rotating mechanism 520 that has a handle 522 that can be configured to be turned multiple times to retract the pin 504 (as Figure 16 and Figure 17 shown). The rotating mechanism 520 can be mounted at the center of the first panel 118 and connect / control the upper pin and the lower pin together.
[0074] Figures 16 - 18Shows an example of an override device 500 that can be used to remove the auxiliary barrier door 110 from the pivot bearing. Other types of override devices, such as latches, can be used. In at least one other example, the auxiliary barrier door 110 may not include an override device.
[0075] Figure 19 Shows a perspective view of an upper bearing 160b that holds an upper portion of an end 134 of a second panel 120 according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 20 Shows a perspective view of a lower bearing 160a that holds a lower portion of an end 134 of a second panel 120 according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 21 Shows a plan view of a bearing 160 (such as the lower bearing 160a or the upper bearing 160b) that holds an end 134 of a second panel 120 according to an example of the present disclosure. Refer to Figures 19 - 21 , each bearing 160 includes a base 600 fixed to a structure (such as a floor 107 or a ceiling 109), and opposing protrusions 602 and 604 extending from the base 600. The protrusions 602 and 604 may be mirror structures. The protrusions 602 and 604 include recessed introduction walls 606 that curve outwardly away from a central channel 608 toward a front end 610, thereby providing an extended introduction channel 612 for the central channel 608. The extended introduction channel 612 allows the end 134 to pivot into the central channel 608 and be securely held between the protrusions 602 and 604 within a portion where the width of the central channel 608 decreases.
[0076] Figures 19 - 21 The bearings shown in
[0077] Figure 22 are only examples, and other types of bearings can be used to securely hold the end 134. For example, spring-loaded retaining balls can be used to snap-fit and secure the end 134. As another example, impact fittings having cavities for receiving latch rods or bolts can be used. As another example, hooks can be used to hold the end 134 in a desired position. Figure 1 and Figure 22 , at 700, the auxiliary barrier door 110 is fixed between a first three-dimensional space 112 and a second three-dimensional space 114. At 702, it is determined whether an open path to the flight deck 104 is required. If so, the method proceeds from 702 to 704, where the auxiliary barrier door 110 is folded to a stowed position 136. Then, the method returns to 702. If an open path to the flight deck is not required at 702, but rather the path is to be closed, the method continues to 706, where the auxiliary barrier door 110 is deployed to extend between the first three-dimensional space 112 and the second three-dimensional space 114.
[0078] Refer toFigures 1 - 22 , examples of the present disclosure provide an auxiliary barrier door 110 having a collapsible portion, such as a first panel 118 and a second panel 120 pivotally coupled together by a pivot hinge 122. The auxiliary barrier door 110 provides a bi-fold door. The collapsible auxiliary barrier door 110 allows for additional vestibule space due to the smaller sweep volume required to move the auxiliary barrier door 110 to the deployed position 138 (compared to a full-size panel door).
[0079] In addition, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:
[0080] Clause 1. An aircraft, comprising:
[0081] A flight deck including a flight deck door configured to move between an open position and a closed position;
[0082] A first volume;
[0083] A second volume; and
[0084] An auxiliary barrier door movably secured between the first volume and the second volume, wherein the auxiliary barrier door is configured to fold to a stowed position and deploy to a deployed position, in the stowed position, the path to the flight deck is open, and in the deployed position, the path to the flight deck is closed.
[0085] Clause 2. The aircraft according to clause 1, wherein the auxiliary barrier door includes:
[0086] A first panel;
[0087] A second panel; and
[0088] A pivot hinge that pivotally couples the first panel to the second panel.
[0089] Clause 3. The aircraft according to clause 2, wherein when the auxiliary barrier door is in the stowed position, the first panel folds near the first volume, and the second panel folds near the first panel.
[0090] Clause 4. The aircraft according to clause 2 or 3, wherein the first panel is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling.
[0091] Clause 5. The aircraft according to any one of clauses 2-4, further comprising a lower bearing and an upper bearing configured to receive and hold an end of the second panel when the auxiliary barrier door is in the deployed position.
[0092] Clause 6. The aircraft according to any one of Clauses 2 - 5, wherein the pivot hinge includes a lock configured to fix the auxiliary barrier door in a desired position.
[0093] Clause 7. The aircraft according to any one of Clauses 1 - 6, wherein the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position extends between a first three - dimensional space and a second three - dimensional space.
[0094] Clause 8. The aircraft according to any one of Clauses 1 - 7, wherein a closed safety foyer is defined between the flight deck, the first three - dimensional space, the second three - dimensional space, and the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position.
[0095] Clause 9. The aircraft according to any one of Clauses 1 - 8, wherein the auxiliary barrier door is located in front of the passenger seating area.
[0096] Clause 10. The aircraft according to any one of Clauses 1 - 9, wherein the auxiliary barrier door includes an override device configured to allow removal of the auxiliary barrier door.
[0097] Clause 11. A method for an aircraft, the aircraft comprising:
[0098] A flight deck including a flight deck door configured to move between an open position and a closed position;
[0099] A first three - dimensional space;
[0100] A second three - dimensional space; and
[0101] An auxiliary barrier door movably fixed between the first three - dimensional space and the second three - dimensional space, wherein the auxiliary barrier door is configured to fold to a stowed position and deploy to a deployed position, in the stowed position, the path to the flight deck is open, and in the deployed position, the path to the flight deck is closed,
[0102] The method includes:
[0103] Folding the auxiliary barrier door to the stowed position in which the path to the flight deck is open; and
[0104] Deploying the auxiliary barrier to the deployed position in which the path to the flight deck is closed.
[0105] Clause 12. The method according to Clause 11, wherein the auxiliary barrier door includes:
[0106] A first panel;
[0107] a second panel; and
[0108] a pivot hinge that pivotally couples the first panel to the second panel.
[0109] Clause 13. The method according to clause 12, wherein when the auxiliary barrier door is in the stowed position, the first panel folds near the first three-dimensional space, and the second panel folds near the first panel.
[0110] Clause 14. The method according to clause 12 or 13, wherein the first panel is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling.
[0111] Clause 15. The method according to any one of clauses 12 - 14, when the auxiliary barrier door is in the deployed position, the ends of the second panel are received and held by the lower bearing and the upper bearing.
[0112] Clause 16. The method according to any one of clauses 12 - 15, further comprising fixing the auxiliary barrier door in a desired position by a lock of the pivot hinge.
[0113] Clause 17. The method according to any one of clauses 11 - 16, wherein the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position extends between the first three-dimensional space and the second three-dimensional space.
[0114] Clause 18. The method according to any one of clauses 11 - 17, wherein a closed safety foyer is defined between the flight deck, the first three-dimensional space, the second three-dimensional space, and the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position.
[0115] Clause 19. The method according to any one of clauses 11 - 18, further comprising allowing removal of the auxiliary barrier door by an override device of the auxiliary barrier door.
[0116] Clause 20. An aircraft, comprising:
[0117] a flight deck including a flight deck door configured to move between an open position and a closed position;
[0118] a first three-dimensional space;
[0119] a second three-dimensional space;
[0120] An auxiliary barrier door located in front of the passenger seating area, wherein the auxiliary barrier door is movably fixed between the first and second three-dimensional spaces, wherein the auxiliary barrier door is configured to fold to a stowed position and unfold to a deployed position, in the stowed position, the path to the flight deck is open, in the deployed position, the path to the flight deck is closed, wherein the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position extends between the first and second three-dimensional spaces, wherein a closed safety foyer is defined between the flight deck, the first three-dimensional space, the second three-dimensional space and the auxiliary barrier door in the deployed position, and wherein the auxiliary barrier door comprises:
[0121] A first panel;
[0122] A second panel;
[0123] A pivot hinge that pivotally couples the first panel to the second panel, wherein when the auxiliary barrier door is in the stowed position, the first panel folds near the first three-dimensional space and the second panel folds near the first panel, wherein the first panel is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling, and wherein the pivot hinge includes a lock configured to fix the auxiliary barrier door in a desired position; and
[0124] An override device configured to allow removal of the auxiliary barrier door; and
[0125] A lower bearing and an upper bearing configured to receive and hold an end of the second panel when the auxiliary barrier door is in the deployed position.
[0126] Clause 21. A method for an aircraft (102), the method comprising:
[0127] A flight deck (104) including a flight deck (104) door configured to move between an open position and a closed position;
[0128] A first three-dimensional space (112, 114);
[0129] A second three-dimensional space (112, 114); and
[0130] An auxiliary barrier door (110) movably fixed between the first three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the second three-dimensional space (112, 114), wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) is configured to fold to a stowed position (136) and unfold to a deployed position (138), in the stowed position, the path (144) to the flight deck (104) is open, and in the deployed position, the path (144) to the flight deck (104) is closed.
[0131] The method includes:
[0132] Folding the auxiliary barrier door (110) into the stowed position (136), in which the path (144) to the flight deck (104) is open;
[0133] And
[0134] Unfolding the auxiliary barrier into the deployed position (138), in which
[0135] The path (144) to the flight deck (104) is closed.
[0136] Clause 22. The method according to Clause 21, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) includes:
[0137] A first panel (118);
[0138] A second panel (120); and
[0139] A pivot hinge (122) that pivotally couples the first panel (118) to the second panel (120).
[0140] Clause 23. The method according to Clause 22, wherein when the auxiliary barrier door (110) is in the stowed position (136), the first panel (118) folds near the first three-dimensional space (112, 114), and the second panel (120) folds near the first panel (118).
[0141] Clause 24. The method according to Clause 22, wherein the first panel (118) is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor (107) and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling.
[0142] Clause 25. The method according to Clause 22, when the auxiliary barrier door (110) is in the deployed position (138), the ends of the second panel (120) are received and held by the lower bearing and the upper bearing.
[0143] Clause 26. The method according to Clause 22 further comprises fixing the auxiliary barrier door (110) at a desired position by a lock of the pivot hinge (122).
[0144] Clause 27. The method according to Clause 21, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) in the deployed position (138) extends between the first three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the second three-dimensional space (112, 114).
[0145] Clause 28. The method according to Clause 21, wherein a closed safety lobby (150) is defined between the flight deck (104), the first three-dimensional space (112, 114), the second three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the auxiliary barrier door (110) in the deployed position (138).
[0146] Clause 29. The method according to Clause 21 further comprises allowing removal of the auxiliary barrier door (110) by an override device of the auxiliary barrier door (110).
[0147] Clause 30. An aircraft (102) comprising:
[0148] A flight deck (104) comprising a flight deck (104) door configured to move between an open position and a closed position;
[0149] A first three-dimensional space (112, 114);
[0150] A second three-dimensional space (112, 114);
[0151] An auxiliary barrier door (110) located in front of a passenger seating area (151), wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) is movably fixed between the first three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the second three-dimensional space (112, 114), wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) is configured to fold to a stowed position (136) and deploy to a deployed position (138), in the stowed position, a path (144) to the flight deck (104) is open, in the deployed position, the path (144) to the flight deck (104) is closed, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) in the deployed position (138) extends between the first three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the second three-dimensional space (112, 114), wherein a closed safety lobby (150) is defined between the flight deck (104), the first three-dimensional space (112, 114), the second three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the auxiliary barrier door (110) in the deployed position (138), and wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) comprises:
[0152] a first panel (118);
[0153] a second panel (120);
[0154] a pivot hinge (122) that pivotally couples the first panel (118) to the second panel (120), wherein when the auxiliary barrier door (110) is in the stowed position (136), the first panel (118) folds near the first three-dimensional space (112, 114), and the second panel (120) folds near the first panel (118), wherein the first panel (118) is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor (107) and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling, and wherein the pivot hinge (122) includes a lock configured to fix the auxiliary barrier door (110) in a desired position; and
[0155] an override device configured to allow removal of the auxiliary barrier door (110); and
[0156] a lower bearing and an upper bearing configured to receive and hold an end of the second panel (120) when the auxiliary barrier door (110) is in the deployed position (138).
[0157] As described herein, examples of the present disclosure provide a barrier system and method for preventing entry into a flight deck during a hatch transition. Additionally, examples of the present disclosure provide an efficient and effective system and method for providing an auxiliary barrier to a flight deck.
[0158] Although various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, middle, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front, etc., may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that these terms are only for the orientation shown in the drawings. This orientation may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed such that the upper is the lower, the rear may be changed to the front, and vice versa, the horizontal becomes vertical, and so on.
[0159] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element “configured to” perform a task or operation is specifically formed, constructed, or adjusted structurally in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and to avoid ambiguity, an object that can only be modified to perform a task or operation is not “configured to” perform the task or operation as used herein.
[0160] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Additionally, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of the materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the present disclosure, these embodiments are in no way limiting but rather exemplary embodiments. After reading the above description, many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims and the specific embodiments herein, the terms "comprising" and "wherein" are used as the plain equivalents of the respective terms "including" and "in which". Additionally, the terms "first", "second", and "third", etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the appended claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless and until such claim limitations expressly recite the phrase "means for" followed by a statement of function without further structure.
[0161] This written description uses examples to disclose the various embodiments of the present disclosure, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the present disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are considered to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ in substance from the literal language of the claims.
Claims
1. An aircraft (102) comprising: A flight deck (104) including a flight deck (104) door configured to move between an open position and a closed position; A first three-dimensional space (112, 114); A second three-dimensional space (112, 114); and An auxiliary barrier door (110) movably fixed between the first three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the second three-dimensional space (112, 114), wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) is configured to fold to a stowed position (136) and unfold to a deployed position (138), in the stowed position, a path (144) to the flight deck (104) is open, and in the deployed position, the path (144) to the flight deck (104) is closed.
2. The aircraft (102) according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) comprises: A first panel (118); A second panel (120); and A pivot hinge (122) pivotally coupling the first panel (118) to the second panel (120).
3. The aircraft (102) according to claim 2, wherein when the auxiliary barrier door (110) is in the stowed position (136), the first panel (118) folds near the first three-dimensional space (112, 114), and the second panel (120) folds near the first panel (118).
4. The aircraft (102) according to claim 2, wherein the first panel (118) is pivotally coupled to a lower pivot bearing fixed to the floor (107) and an upper pivot bearing fixed to the ceiling.
5. The aircraft (102) according to claim 2, further comprising a lower bearing and an upper bearing configured to accommodate and hold an end of the second panel (120) when the auxiliary barrier door (110) is in the deployed position (138).
6. The aircraft (102) according to claim 2, wherein the pivot hinge (122) includes a lock configured to fix the auxiliary barrier door (110) in a desired position.
7. The aircraft (102) according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) in the deployed position (138) extends between the first three-dimensional space (112, 114) and the second three-dimensional space (112, 114).
8. The aircraft (102) according to claim 1, wherein a closed safety foyer (150) is defined between the flight deck (104), the first three-dimensional space (112, 114), the second three-dimensional space (112, 114), and the auxiliary barrier door (110) in the deployed position (138).
9. The aircraft (102) according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) is located in front of the passenger seat area (151). 10. The aircraft (102) according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary barrier door (110) includes an override device configured to permit removal of the auxiliary barrier door (110).