Virtual window for aircraft airframe

Abstract

The invention relates to a virtual window for an aircraft body. A projection-based virtual window system for an aircraft includes a housing, a transparent lens, a projection system, and a controller. The outer shell is mounted to an inner cabin wall of the aircraft. A housing is positioned over the aperture in the inner wall. The transparent lens is fixed between the housing and the inner wall, and includes a touch sensing layer embedded therein. The projection system displays an image on a projection surface of the housing. The controller receives instructions from the touch sensing layer and is further operable to provide the image to the projection system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to aircraft windows. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a projection-based virtual window for a commercial aircraft airframe structure. Background Art

[0002] With the increasing popularity of composite materials used in manufacturing aircraft airframe structures and the need for faster and cheaper aircraft manufacturing, the inherent physical properties of traditional physical windows pose challenges.

[0003] Physical windows occupy holes cut in the aircraft airframe structure and allow passengers on the aircraft to see the outside of the aircraft in real time. During the manufacturing process, forming the holes for the windows in the airframe structure is both time-consuming and increases costs. Additionally, the holes in the airframe structure compromise the structural integrity of the airframe, thus requiring the addition of additional expensive, time-consuming, and weight-increasing reinforcement materials. The window is typically made of a transparent material and is permanently installed in the aircraft airframe. Physical windows need to be reinforced with additional materials to avoid structural fatigue failure. The weight of each window on an aircraft can vary significantly depending on the size of the window and the type of aircraft, with larger windows in wide-body aircraft being very heavy. Since each row of seats is conventionally aligned with a window, traditional physical windows cannot accommodate different seat layouts due to their fixed positions.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a desire for a method and apparatus that takes into account at least some of the above problems and other possible problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Exemplary examples of the present disclosure provide a virtual window for an aircraft, the virtual window including an inner wall, an outer shell, a transparent lens, and a projector of the aircraft. The outer shell is mounted to the inner wall of the aircraft. The transparent lens is fixed between the outer shell and the inner wall. The projector is positioned between the transparent lens and the outer shell. Additionally, the projector is configured to display an image on the outer shell.

[0006] Another exemplary example of the present disclosure provides a projection-based virtual window system for an aircraft, the virtual window system including an outer shell, a transparent lens, a projection system, a projection surface of the outer shell, and a controller. The outer shell is mounted to the inner wall of the aircraft cabin. The outer shell is positioned above a hole in the inner wall. The transparent lens is fixed between the outer shell and the inner wall. The projection system is configured to display an image on the projection surface of the outer shell. The controller is operable to provide the image to the projection system.

[0007] Another illustrative example of the present disclosure provides a method for projecting a virtual window of an aircraft. The method includes the step of installing a virtual window system onto an inner wall of the aircraft. The virtual window system is positioned above a hole in the inner wall. The virtual window system includes: a transparent lens fixed to a housing; a projection system connected to the housing and positioned between the transparent lens and the housing; and a touch sensing layer embedded within the transparent lens. The method includes another step of providing an image from a controller in a computer system of the aircraft to the projection system. The method further includes projecting the image onto a projection surface of the housing, wherein the image is observable through the hole in the inner wall and the transparent lens.

[0008] These features and functions may be implemented independently in various examples of the present disclosure, or may be combined in other examples, in which further details may be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The novel features are set forth in the appended claims as being characteristic of the illustrative examples. However, the illustrative examples, as well as the preferred mode of use, its additional purposes and features, will be best understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of an aircraft in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0011] Figure 2 is a block diagrammatic illustration of a manufacturing environment in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0012] Figure 3 is an exploded diagrammatic illustration of a virtual window in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0013] Figure 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of a virtual window in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0014] Figure 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of a virtual window in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0015] Figure 6 is a diagrammatic illustration of a virtual window in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0016] Figure 7 is a diagrammatic illustration of a virtual window in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0017] Figure 8 is a flowchart diagrammatic illustration of a process for projecting a virtual window of an aircraft in accordance with an illustrative example;

[0018] Figure 9is a block diagram illustration of an aircraft manufacturing and service method according to an illustrative example; and

[0019] Figure 10 is a block diagram illustration of an aircraft in which the illustrative example can be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The illustrative example recognizes and takes into account one or more different considerations. For example, the illustrative example recognizes and takes into account that during the manufacturing process of an aircraft airframe structure, it is necessary to cut openings in the outer skin to accommodate traditional physical windows.

[0021] This illustrative example recognizes and takes into account that due to the openings in the skin of the aircraft, traditional physical windows are fixed in place and thus cannot accommodate alternative designs or seating arrangements within the aircraft cabin.

[0022] This illustrative example recognizes and takes into account that by incorporating traditional windows during the manufacturing process of an aircraft airframe structure, the structural integrity of the airframe structure is compromised and additional reinforcement is required, which is both expensive and time-consuming and also increases the weight of the aircraft.

[0023] Accordingly, this illustrative example provides a projection-based virtual window system. An illustrative example of the virtual window system is designed as a plug-and-play unit that replaces traditional windows or can be incorporated during initial manufacturing. Benefits of this illustrative example include: reduction of the aircraft's weight in the absence of traditional glass windows, and simplification of production by eliminating the cutting of window openings due to the complexity of late production, especially in composite fuselages. A windowless fuselage also improves the structural strength, for example in the wing-body junction section, to allow for improved performance and aerodynamics in wing design.

[0024] Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to Figure 1 depicts an illustration of an aircraft according to an illustrative example. In this illustrative example, the aircraft 100 has wings 102 and 104 attached to the airframe 106. The aircraft 100 includes engines 108 attached to the wing 102 and engines 110 attached to the wing 104.

[0025] The airframe 106 has a tail section 112. Horizontal stabilizers 114, 116, and a vertical stabilizer 118 are attached to the tail section 112 of the airframe 106.

[0026] Aircraft 100 is an example of an aircraft having a conventional physical window. A set of windows 120 includes window 122. Window 122 is a conventional physical window. Window 122 is permanently mounted to airframe 106 in an opening formed in airframe 106. As disclosed herein, a projection-based virtual window can be retrofitted to airframe 106 in place of window 122, or aircraft 100 including airframe 106 can be manufactured from the start without cutting an opening in airframe 106, and instead be manufactured with a plurality of projection-based virtual windows. An airframe structure without a conventional window opening is stronger, easier, faster, and less costly to produce.

[0027] As used herein, when used in accordance with an item, "a set of" means one or more items. For example, "a set of windows" is one or more of the windows.

[0028] As used herein, when used with a list of items, the phrase "at least one of" means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and it may only be necessary to use one of each item in the list. In other words, "at least one of" means any combination and any number of items that can be used from the list, but not all items in the list are required. The items can be specific objects, things, or categories.

[0029] For example, but not limited to, "at least one of item A, item B, or item C" can include item A, item A and item B, or item B. This example can also include item A, item B, and item C or item B and item C. Of course, any combination of these items can exist. In some illustrative examples, "at least one of" can be, for example but not limited to: two of item A; one of item B; ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or other suitable combinations.

[0030] Figure 1 The illustration of aircraft 100 herein is not meant to imply a physical or architectural limitation on the manner in which the illustrative examples can be implemented. For example, while aircraft 100 is a commercial aircraft, aircraft 100 can be a military aircraft, a rotary-wing aircraft, a helicopter, a drone, or any other suitable aircraft.

[0031] Although the illustrative examples are described with respect to an aircraft, the illustrative examples can also be applied to other types of platforms. For example, the platform can be a mobile platform, a fixed platform, a land-based structure, a water-based structure, or a space-based structure. More specifically, the platform can be an aircraft, a surface ship, a tank, a troop carrier, a train, a spacecraft, a space station, a satellite, a submarine, an automobile, a power plant, a bridge, a dam, a house, a manufacturing facility, a building, a tool, a mechanical structure, or any other suitable platform or structure that requires the installation of a projection-based virtual window.

[0032] Turning now to Figure 2 , a block diagram illustration of an aircraft manufacturing environment is depicted in accordance with the illustrative example. The aircraft manufacturing environment 200 includes a projection-based virtual window system 202 and an aircraft 204.

[0033] In this illustrative example, the aircraft 204 includes an airframe structure 206. The airframe structure 206 has a skin 208. The skin 208 does not have any openings that are cut and sized for the installation of traditional windows. The airframe structure 206 defines a passenger cabin 210. The passenger cabin 210 is the area where passengers of the aircraft 204 sit in multiple rows of seats during flight of the aircraft 204. The passenger cabin 210 includes an inner wall 212. The inner wall includes holes 262. The inner wall 212 is exposed to passengers sitting in the passenger cabin 210. Passengers sitting in the passenger cabin 210 will be able to observe a virtual window connected to the inner wall 212 through the holes 262. Passengers sitting in the passenger cabin 210 will be able to interact with the virtual window connected to the inner wall 212 via the holes 262. The inner wall 212 is spaced apart from the skin 208. A structural framework including, but not limited to, frames, beams, and spars is present in the space between the inner wall 212 and the skin 208.

[0034] In this illustrative example, the projection-based virtual window system 202 includes a virtual window 220 and a computer system 222.

[0035] In this illustrative example, the virtual window 220 includes a housing 224, a transparent lens 226, a base 228, a frame 230, and a projection system 232.

[0036] The housing 224 is generally in the shape of a hollow shell. The housing defines a volume having at least one open side. A flange 234 is disposed around the perimeter of the open side. The flange 234 defines a perimeter having a shape 236. The flange 234 includes an insert 238. The flange 234 is shaped and sized to engage with the frame 230. The frame 230 defines a shape 240. The shape 240 matches the shape 236.

[0037] The housing 224 includes a projection surface 242. The projection surface 242 is positioned on the inner surface of the housing 224. The projection surface 242 is located on the inner surface opposite to the open side of the volume defined by the housing 224. The projection surface 242 may just be the inner surface of the housing 224, a projection paint layer applied to the inner surface of the housing 224, a plurality of optical layers coated on a flexible thin substrate adhered to the inner wall of the housing 224, etc. As a non-limiting example, projection paints / coatings from smarter surfaces are available. Additionally, as a non-limiting example, ultra-thin flexible Fresnel screens manufactured by Formovie are available. The characteristics of the projection surface 242 improve the image quality, brightness, contrast, etc. of the projection-based virtual window system 202.

[0038] The housing 224 may include a light-shielding grid 244. The light-shielding grid 244 provides a path for the airflow between the internal space of the housing 224 and the external space of the housing 224. The airflow path provided by the light-shielding grid 244 may be necessary to dissipate any unwanted heat generated by the projector of the projection-based virtual window system 202.

[0039] The transparent lens 226 is connected to the base 228. The base 228 holds the transparent lens 226 in a hole 258 formed in the base 228. The size of the hole 258 is designed to hold the transparent lens 226 firmly relative to the base 228. When the base 228 is connected to the housing 224 at the insert 238, the base 228 holds the transparent lens 226 relative to the housing 224. The transparent lens 226 includes a touch-sensing layer 246. The touch-sensing layer 246 may be embedded within the transparent lens 226. The touch-sensing layer 246 may be a laminated layer adhered to the transparent lens 226. Examples of the touch-sensing layer 246 or the touch screen (e.g., manufactured by manufactured ) are widely available. The transparent lens 226 may include an electrochromic layer integrated with or adhered to the transparent lens 226. The electrochromic layer may produce a louver effect, where, in the case where the virtual window 220 is retrofitted to an airframe structure that already has a conventional window opening, the electrochromic layer may block the interior of the aircraft from sunlight when the system is turned off. The housing 224 or the transparent lens 226 or both may include one or more tiny pinholes that are used to relieve the pressure difference between the interior of the aircraft and the space in which the virtual window 220 is installed during the operation of the aircraft.

[0040] The projection system 232 includes a set of projectors 250. The set of projectors 250 includes at least one projector, but may include a first projector 252 and a second projector 254. The first projector 252 projects an image 253 onto a projection surface 242. The second projector 254 projects an image 255 onto the projection surface 242. The image 253 and the image 255 may be the same image. The image 253 and the image 255 may be different images, where one is superimposed on the other, or they are projected side by side on the projection surface 242. When the image 253 and the image 255 are the same image, one can provide redundancy for the other in case of a failure. When there are multiple projectors, a cable 256 connects the first projector 252 to the second projector 254. The cable 256 may also provide a communication link between the projector and the controller 260. The image 253 and / or the image 255 may show a view from an external camera to simulate the view of a traditional window for passengers inside the cabin. The first projector 252 and the second projector 254 may be considered "miniature" or "ultra-short throw" projectors. The first projector 252 and the second projector 254 may have a projection ratio of approximately 0.250 - 0.270 (distance / width). Due to the limited projection distance between each projector and the projection surface of the virtual window 220, an ultra-short throw optical engine projector is preferred. As a non-limiting example, projectors with ultra-short throw optical engines made by Ongine are available.

[0041] In this illustrative example, the operation of the projection-based virtual window system 202 can be controlled by a controller 260 in a computer system 222.

[0042] The controller 260 can be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. When using software, the operations performed by the controller 260 can be implemented in program code configured to run on hardware such as a processor unit. When using firmware, the operations performed by the controller 260 can be implemented in program code and data and stored in persistent memory to run on the processor unit. When using hardware, the hardware may include circuitry operating to perform the operations in the controller 260.

[0043] In an illustrative example, the hardware can take at least one form selected from circuitry, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some other suitable type of hardware configured to perform various operations. With a programmable logic device, the device can be configured to perform a certain number of operations. The device can be reconfigured at a later time or can be permanently configured to perform a certain number of operations. For example, programmable logic devices include programmable logic arrays, programmable array logic, field programmable logic arrays, field programmable gate arrays, and other suitable hardware devices. Additionally, these processes can be implemented in organic components integrated with inorganic components and can consist entirely of organic components that do not include humans. For example, these processes can be implemented as circuits in organic semiconductors.

[0044] Computer system 222 is a physical hardware system and includes one or more data processing systems. When there are multiple data processing systems in computer system 222, these data processing systems communicate with each other using a communication medium. The communication medium can be a network. The data processing system can be selected from at least one of a computer, a server computer, a tablet computer, or some other suitable data processing system.

[0045] In an illustrative example, controller 260 can control projection system 232 to project image 253 and / or image 255 onto projection surface 242. Additionally, controller 260 can receive input from touch sensing layer 246 to change image 253 or image 255. A passenger interacting with touch sensing layer 246 generates a signal that is sent from touch sensing layer 246 and received by computer system 222. Controller 260 controls what images are projected by projection system 232 based on the input received from the passenger and the messages and images programmed in computer system 222. Controller 260 operates to provide an image to projection system 232.

[0046] In use, frame 230 is connected to the inner wall 212 of aircraft 204 that surrounds aperture 262. Projection system 232, which includes first projector 252 and / or second projector 254, is connected to housing 224. Projection system 232 communicates with computer system 222 and controller 260. The communication between projection system 232 and computer system 222 can be hardwired or can be wireless. Transparent lens 226 is connected to base 228. Base 228 is connected to housing 224 at insert 238. Housing 224 is connected to frame 230 such that aperture 258 of base 228 and the transparent lens 226 mounted therein are aligned with aperture 262 of inner wall 212.

[0047] A virtual window 220 including a housing 224, a base 228, a transparent lens 226, and a projection system 232 is assembled as a plug-and-play unit that can be interchangeably mounted to the inner wall of an aircraft cabin using a frame 230. The virtual window 220 can be connected to the frame 230 using conventional fasteners, or the virtual window 220 can be connected to the frame 230 using a friction fit of a snap-fit structure.

[0048] As used herein, a first component being “connected to” or “coupled to” a second component or being “associated with” a second component means that the first component can be directly or indirectly connected to the second component. The connection is a physical association. In other words, there may be additional components between the first component and the second component. When there are one or more additional components between two components, the first component is considered to be indirectly connected to the second component. When the first component is directly connected to the second component, there are no additional components between the two components.

[0049] For example, a first component can be considered to be physically connected to a second component by at least one of being fixed to the second component, bonded to the second component, mounted to the second component, welded to the second component, fastened to the second component, or connected to the second component in some other suitable manner. The first component can also be connected to the second component using a third component. The first component can also be considered to be physically connected to the second component by being formed as part of the second component, an extension of the second component, or both.

[0050] Next, referring to Figures 3 to 7 , an illustration of a projection-based virtual window system is depicted according to an illustrative example. In this illustrative example and the following illustrative examples, the same reference numerals can be used in multiple figures. This repeated use of reference numerals in different figures represents the same elements in different figures. Figures 3 to 7 The components illustrated in Figure 2 are examples of the physical implementation of the virtual window 220 shown in block form in

[0051] As illustrated, the virtual window 300 includes a housing 302, a base 304, a transparent lens 306, a projection system 308, and a frame 310.

[0052] The housing 302 defines a volume having at least one open side 312. A flange 314 is disposed around the perimeter of the open side 312. The flange 314 includes an insert 316. The flange 314 is shaped and sized to engage a frame 310 mounted to an inner wall 320.

[0053] The housing 302 includes a projection surface 322. The projection surface 322 is positioned on the inner surface of the housing 302. The projection surface 322 is opposite to the open side 312. The housing 302 includes a grating 324. The grating 324 provides a passage for the airflow between the interior of the housing 302 and the external space of the housing 302.

[0054] The transparent lens 306 is connected to the base 304. The base 304 firmly holds the transparent lens 306 in a hole 326 formed in the base 304. The transparent lens 306 includes a touch sensing layer. The touch sensing layer can be embedded within the transparent lens 306, or it can be a laminated layer adhered to the transparent lens 306. The transparent lens 306 may also include an electrochromic layer.

[0055] The projection system 308 includes a first projector 330 and a second projector 331. The first projector 330 projects an image 334 onto the projection surface 322. The second projector 331 may also project the image 334 onto the projection surface 322, or it may project a different image. The images projected by each projector work together to provide images and information to the passengers within the cabin. A cable 332 connects the first projector 330 to the second projector 331.

[0056] The frame 310 is connected to an inner wall 320 that surrounds a hole 340 formed within the inner wall 320. The projection system 308 including the first projector 330 and the second projector 331 is connected to the housing 302. The transparent lens 306 is connected to the base 304 in the hole 326 formed in the base 304. The base 304 is connected to the housing 302 at an insert 316. The housing 302 is connected to the frame 310 so as to align the hole 326 of the base 304 and the transparent lens 306 mounted therein with the hole 340 of the inner wall 320. The hole 262 is aligned with the transparent lens 306 so that the image 334 can be observed from the cabin of the aircraft through the hole 262 and the transparent lens 306.

[0057] The virtual window 300 including the housing 302, the base 304, the transparent lens 306, and the projection system 308 is assembled as a plug-and-play unit that can be interchangeably mounted to the inner wall 320 at a desired location using the frame 310. The virtual window 300 can be connected to the frame 310 using conventional fasteners, or the virtual window 300 can also be connected to the frame 310 using a friction fit.

[0058] Next, referring to Figure 8 , a flowchart illustration of a process 800 for projecting a virtual window is depicted according to an exemplary example. Figure 8 The method described in Figures 1 to 7 can be used in combination with the projection-based virtual window system 202 described in

[0059] The process begins with installing a virtual window system on the inner wall of an aircraft (operation 802). The virtual window system is positioned above a hole in the inner wall. The virtual window system includes: a transparent lens fixed to a housing; a projection system connected to the housing and positioned between the transparent lens and the housing; and a touch sensing layer embedded in the transparent lens. The process provides an image from a controller in the computer system of the aircraft to the projection system (operation 804). Then, the process projects the image onto a projection surface of the housing (operation 806). The image can be viewed through the hole in the inner wall and through the transparent lens. The process can receive input from the virtual window to determine the projected image (operation 808). At operation 810, the process can project a first image and a second image onto the projection surface of the housing. The process can change the image to be projected based on input received from the touch sensing layer of the transparent lens (operation 812). A passenger in the cabin can interact with the touch sensing layer of the transparent lens, thereby providing input to the virtual window system and determining what the image to be projected is.

[0060] In some alternative implementations of the illustrative examples, one or more of the functions noted in the boxes may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two boxes shown in succession may be executed substantially concurrently, or the boxes may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Additionally, other boxes may be added in addition to those illustrated in the flow process or block diagrams.

[0061] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may also be described in the context of an aircraft manufacturing and service method 900 as shown in Figure 9 and an aircraft 1000 as shown in Figure 10 . First, turning to Figure 9 , a diagrammatic illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft manufacturing and service method is depicted in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. During pre-production, the aircraft manufacturing and service method 900 may include Figure 10 the specification and design 902 of the aircraft 1000 in

[0062] and the material procurement 904. Figure 10 During the production process, component and sub-component manufacturing 906 of the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 and system integration 908 are performed. Thereafter, the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 can be certified and delivered 910 for entry into service 912. While in service 912 by a customer, the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 is scheduled for routine maintenance and service 914, which may include modifications, reconfigurations, refurbishments, and other maintenance, service, or inspections.

[0063] The devices of the present disclosure can be installed on an aircraft during component and sub - assembly manufacturing 906. Additionally, as part of a modification, re - configuration, or refurbishment of the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 , the devices of the present disclosure can be retrofitted onto the aircraft 1000 during routine maintenance and service 914. Figure 10

[0064] Each of the processes of the aircraft manufacturing and service method 900 can be performed by a system integrator, a third - party, an operator, or a combination thereof. In these examples, the operator may be a customer. For the purposes of this description, a system integrator can include, but is not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and prime system subcontractors; a third - party can include, but is not limited to, any number of suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors, and an operator can be an airline, a leasing company, a military entity, a service organization, etc.

[0065] Now referring to Figure 10 , a diagrammatic illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft is depicted, in which an exemplary embodiment can be implemented. In this example, the aircraft 1000 is produced by the aircraft manufacturing and service method 900 in Figure 9 and may include a fuselage 1002 and an interior 1006 having a plurality of systems 1004. Examples of the systems 1004 include one or more of a propulsion system 1008, an electrical system 1010, a hydraulic system 1012, and an environmental system 1014. Any number of other systems can be included. Although an aerospace example is shown, different exemplary embodiments can be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry.

[0066] During at least one of the multiple stages of the aircraft manufacturing and service method 900 in Figure 9 , the devices and methods described herein can be employed. In one exemplary example, the components or sub - components produced in the component and sub - assembly manufacturing 906 in Figure 9 can be manufactured in a manner similar to the components or sub - components produced in the aircraft 1000 during in - service 912 in Figure 9 . As yet another example, during the production phase, such as in the component and sub - assembly manufacturing 906 and system integration 908 in Figure 9 , one or more device embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof can be used. During the in - service 912, maintenance and service 914 of the aircraft 1000 in Figure 9 or both, one or more device embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof can be used. Using multiple different exemplary embodiments can significantly speed up the assembly of the aircraft 1000, reduce the cost of the aircraft 1000, or both speed up the assembly of the aircraft 1000 and reduce the cost of the aircraft 1000.

[0067] The disclosed virtual window system is designed to replace physical windows with digital features. The disclosed virtual window system eliminates heavy and costly physical windows. The physical windows require more materials for reinforcement to avoid structural fatigue failure. The disclosed virtual window system provides digital displays for enhancing the passenger experience. Passengers can share flight information via the displays. The disclosed virtual window systems can adapt to different seat layouts as they are not limited to fixed positions predetermined by cutouts in the airframe structure. The disclosed systems are infinitely variable.

[0068] The disclosed virtual window system provides a weight savings of approximately 70% for each window. The disclosed virtual window system reduces airframe production time and effort. The disclosed virtual window system is a plug-and-play unit that allows for different cabin configurations.

[0069] In addition, this application includes embodiments according to the following examples:

[0070] 1. A virtual window (220) for an aircraft (204), the virtual window comprising:

[0071] An inner wall (212) of the aircraft (204);

[0072] A housing (224), the housing being mounted to the inner wall (212);

[0073] A transparent lens (226), the transparent lens being fixed between the housing (224) and the inner wall (212); and

[0074] A projector (252), the projector being positioned between the transparent lens (226) and the housing (224), the projector (252) being configured to display an image (253) on the housing (224).

[0075] 2. The virtual window according to Example 1, the virtual window further comprising a touch-sensing layer (246) embedded within the transparent lens (226), the touch-sensing layer (246) being operable from the interior of the aircraft (204).

[0076] 3. The virtual window according to Example 1, the virtual window further comprising a controller (260) in a computer system (222) of the aircraft (204), wherein the controller (260) is operative to provide the image (253) to the projector (252).

[0077] 4. The virtual window according to Example 1, wherein the inner wall (212) includes a hole (262) that is aligned with the transparent lens (226) so that the image (253) can be observed from the interior of the aircraft (204) through the hole (262) and the transparent lens (226).

[0078] 5. The virtual window according to Example 1, further comprising a frame (230) connected to the inner wall (212), the frame (230) being positioned between the inner wall (212) and the outer shell (224).

[0079] 6. The virtual window according to Example 5, wherein the outer shell (224) is connected to the frame (230).

[0080] 7. The virtual window according to Example 1, further comprising a base (228) fixed between the outer shell (224) and the inner wall (212), the base (228) being connected to the transparent lens (226).

[0081] 8. The virtual window according to Example 1, wherein the projector (252) is a first projector (252) configured to project a first image (253) onto the outer shell (224), and the virtual window (220) further comprises a second projector (254) configured to project a second image (255) onto the outer shell (224).

[0082] 9. The virtual window according to Example 8, wherein the first image (253) is different from the second image (255).

[0083] 10. The virtual window according to Example 1, wherein the outer shell (224), the transparent lens (226), and the projector (252) are assembled as a plug-and-play unit, and the plug-and-play unit is positioned between the inner wall (212) of the aircraft (204) and the outer skin (208) of the aircraft (204).

[0084] 11. A projection-based virtual window system (202) for an aircraft (204), the system comprising:

[0085] An outer shell (224) mounted to the inner wall (212) of the passenger cabin (210) of the aircraft (204), the outer shell (224) being positioned above a hole (262) in the inner wall (212);

[0086] A transparent lens (226) fixed between the outer shell (224) and the inner wall (212);

[0087] A projection system (232) configured to display an image (253) on a projection surface (242) of the housing (224); and

[0088] A controller (260) operable to provide the image (253) to the projection system (232).

[0089] 12. The system according to example 11, further comprising a touch sensing layer (246) embedded within the transparent lens (226), the touch sensing layer (246) being operable from the passenger cabin (210) of the aircraft (204) and in communication with the controller (260).

[0090] 13. The system according to example 11, wherein the aperture (262) is aligned with the transparent lens (226) such that the image (253) is observable from the passenger cabin (210) of the aircraft (204) through the aperture (262) and the transparent lens (226).

[0091] 14. The system according to example 11, further comprising a frame (230) connected to the inner wall (212), wherein the housing (224) is connected to the frame (230).

[0092] 15. The system according to example 11, wherein the projection system comprises:

[0093] A first projector (252) configured to project a first image (253) onto the projection surface (242);

[0094] A second projector (254) configured to project a second image (255) onto the projection surface (242); and

[0095] A cable (256) connecting the first projector (252) to the second projector (254).

[0096] 16. The system according to example 11, wherein the housing (224), the transparent lens (226), and the projection system (232) are assembled as a plug-and-play unit that is mounted to an outer surface of the inner wall (212).

[0097] 17. A method for projecting a virtual window of an aircraft, the method comprising:

[0098] Install (802) a virtual window system (202) onto the inner wall (212) of the aircraft (204), the virtual window system (202) being positioned above a hole (262) in the inner wall (212), the virtual window system (202) comprising:

[0099] A transparent lens (226) fixedly attached to a housing (224);

[0100] A projection system (232) connected to the housing (224) and positioned between the transparent lens (226) and the housing (224); and

[0101] A touch sensing layer (246) embedded within the transparent lens (226);

[0102] Provide (804) an image (253) from a controller (260) in a computer system (222) of the aircraft (204) to the projection system (232); and

[0103] Project (806) the image (253) onto a projection surface (242) of the housing (224), wherein the image (253) is observable through the hole (262) in the inner wall (212) and the transparent lens (226).

[0104] 18. The method according to example 17, the method further comprising:

[0105] Receive (808) an input from the touch sensing layer (246) to determine the image (253) to be provided to the projection system (232).

[0106] 19. The method according to example 17, wherein the projection system (232) includes a first projector (252) and a second projector (254), the first projector being configured to project a first image (253) onto the projection surface (242), the second projector being configured to project a second image (255) onto the projection surface (242), the method further comprising:

[0107] Simultaneously project (810) the first image (253) and the second image (255).

[0108] 20. The method according to example 17, the method further comprising:

[0109] Change (812) the projected image (253) based on an input received from the touch sensing layer (246).

[0110] The descriptions of the different illustrative examples are presented for purposes of illustration and description, and are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the examples in the disclosed forms. Many modifications and variations are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art. Additionally, the different illustrative examples may provide different features compared to other desired examples. The selected one or more examples are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the examples, the practical application, and to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to understand the various examples of the present disclosure and the various modifications suitable for the intended particular use.

Claims

1. A virtual window (220) for an aircraft (204), the virtual window comprising: An inner wall (212) of the aircraft (204); A housing (224), the housing being mounted to the inner wall (212); A transparent lens (226), the transparent lens being fixed between the housing (224) and the inner wall (212); And A projector (252), the projector being positioned between the transparent lens (226) and the housing (224), the projector (252) being configured to display an image (253) on the housing (224).

2. The virtual window according to claim 1, the virtual window further comprising a touch sensing layer (246) embedded in the transparent lens (226), the touch sensing layer (246) being operable from inside the aircraft (204).

3. The virtual window according to claim 1, wherein the virtual window further includes a controller (260) in a computer system (222) of the aircraft (204), wherein, The controller (260) is operative to provide the image (253) to the projector (252).

4. The virtual window according to claim 1, wherein, The inner wall (212) includes a hole (262) that is aligned with the transparent lens (226) such that the image (253) can be viewed from inside the aircraft (204) through the hole (262) and the transparent lens (226).

5. The virtual window according to claim 1, the virtual window further comprising a frame (230) connected to the inner wall (212), the frame (230) being positioned between the inner wall (212) and the housing (224).

6. The virtual window according to claim 1, the virtual window further comprising a base (228) fixed between the housing (224) and the inner wall (212), the base (228) being connected to the transparent lens (226).

7. The virtual window according to claim 1, wherein The projector (252) is a first projector (252) configured to project a first image (253) on the housing (224), the virtual window (220) further comprising a second projector (254) configured to project a second image (255) on the housing (224).

8. The virtual window according to claim 1, wherein, The housing (224), the transparent lens (226), and the projector (252) are assembled as a plug-and-play unit, the plug-and-play unit being positioned between the inner wall (212) of the aircraft (204) and the outer skin (208) of the aircraft (204).

9. A projection-based virtual window system (202) for an aircraft (204), the system comprising: A housing (224), the housing being mounted to the inner wall (212) of the passenger cabin (210) of the aircraft (204), the housing (224) being positioned above a hole (262) in the inner wall (212); A transparent lens (226), the transparent lens being fixed between the housing (224) and the inner wall (212); A projection system (232), the projection system being configured to display an image (253) on a projection surface (242) of the housing (224); And A controller (260) that is operable to provide the image (253) to the projection system (232).

10. A method for projecting a virtual window of an aircraft, the method comprising: Installing (802) a virtual window system (202) to an inner wall (212) of the aircraft (204), the virtual window system (202) being positioned above a hole (262) in the inner wall (212), the virtual window system (202) comprising: A transparent lens (226) fixed to a housing (224); A projection system (232) connected to the housing (224) and positioned between the transparent lens (226) and the housing (224); and A touch sensing layer (246) embedded within the transparent lens (226); Providing (804) an image (253) from a controller (260) in a computer system (222) of the aircraft (204) to the projection system (232); and Projecting (806) the image (253) onto a projection surface (242) of the housing (224), wherein the image (253) is observable through the hole (262) in the inner wall (212) and the transparent lens (226).

Images