Aircraft and system and method for providing an alert of engagement of an emergency

Abstract

The disclosure relates to an aircraft and a system and method for providing alerts for engagement of an emergency exit door thereof. The system includes an emergency exit door for use within the interior compartment. The emergency exit door includes a lever configured to engage to open the emergency exit door. The first cover is removably secured to the emergency exit door. The first cover is configured to be removed to touch the lever. The second cover is disposed between the lever and the first cover. The second cover is configured to be removed to touch the lever. One or more sensors are configured to detect positions of the first cover and the second cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to systems and methods for providing an alert regarding the engagement of an emergency exit door of an aircraft. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between various locations. A typical commercial aircraft includes an emergency exit door having a control lever configured to be pulled by an individual in the event of an evacuation to open the emergency exit door.

[0003] Known emergency exit doors include a transparent cover disposed above the control lever. In the event of an evacuation, an individual removes the transparent cover and then pulls the control lever to open the emergency exit door. The transparent cover typically provides the only barrier between the control lever and the passenger seating area within the interior cabin.

[0004] The control lever of the emergency exit door may attract the interest of curious passengers. Such passengers can easily remove the transparent cover and engage the control lever, even in the absence of an emergency. In short, the emergency exit door can be accidentally opened simply by removing the transparent cover and pulling the control lever. When the emergency exit door is opened, an alarm sounds, thereby warning the flight crew and passengers of the opening of the emergency exit door.

[0005] It can be understood that the unintentional or accidental opening of the emergency exit door can cause anxiety among passengers and the flight crew. In addition, such an opening of the emergency exit door results in flight delays. Summary of the Invention

[0006] There is a need for systems and methods for providing an alert regarding an attempted engagement of an emergency exit door. In addition, there is a need for systems and methods for warning an individual within the interior cabin of an aircraft of the engagement of the emergency exit door before the emergency exit door is opened.

[0007] In view of these needs, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system for an emergency exit door of an interior cabin of an aircraft. The emergency exit door includes a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door. A first cover is removably secured to the emergency exit door. The first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever. A second cover is disposed between the control lever and the first cover. The second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the system further includes one or more sensors configured to detect the positions of the first cover and the second cover. As another embodiment, the one or more sensors include one or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover, and one or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the system further includes an alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover. The alarm device may be fixed to the emergency exit door. The alarm device may include a speaker and / or a light.

[0010] One or more alarms may include a first alarm in response to the removal of the first cover and a second alarm in response to the removal of the second cover. The first alarm is different from the second alarm.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the system further includes a control unit in communication with one or more sensors. The control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

[0012] The first cover may include an outer frame surrounding a transparent sheet. The second cover may include a flat plate having an opening.

[0013] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicle (such as an aircraft) and a system including an interior compartment as described herein.

[0014] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system including an emergency exit door for an interior compartment of an aircraft. The emergency exit door includes a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door. One or more covers are removably fixed to the emergency exit door. One or more covers are configured to be removed to access the control lever. One or more sensors are configured to detect the positions of the first cover and the second cover.

[0015] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method including: removably fixing a first cover to an emergency exit door of an aircraft, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever; and removably fixing a second cover between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever. In at least one embodiment, the method further includes: detecting the positions of the first cover and the second cover by one or more sensors. In at least one embodiment, the method further includes outputting one or more alarms by an alarm device in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover. In at least one embodiment, the method further includes outputting one or more alarm signals by a control unit in communication with one or more sensors in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 A block diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figure 2 A flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 3Shows a perspective front view of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 4A Shows a top plan view of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4B Shows a top plan view of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 Shows a perspective interior view of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 Shows an isometric front view of an emergency exit door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 a front view of the emergency exit door.

[0024] Figure 8 Shows an isometric front view of an emergency exit door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9 Shows a front view of an alarm device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 Shows a front view of a system with a first cover removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 11 Shows a front view of a system with a second cover removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 12 Shows a front view of a control lever within a recess of an emergency exit door according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 13 Shows a schematic block diagram of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0030] When read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the foregoing summary 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 with the word "a" or "an" should not necessarily be construed as excluding a plurality of elements or steps. Further, a reference to "one embodiment" is not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Additionally, unless expressly stated to the contrary, an embodiment that "includes" or "has" an element or elements with a particular condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0031] Figure 1 FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of a system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 includes an emergency exit door 102 within an interior cabin 104 of an aircraft 106. The emergency exit door 102 may be provided adjacent to a wing of the aircraft 106 (e.g., on a portion of the aircraft). The emergency exit door 102 is configured to move between a closed position and an open position.

[0032] The emergency exit door 102 includes a control lever 108 configured to be engaged (such as grasped and pulled) by an individual to open the emergency exit door 102. A first cover 110 is provided on the control lever 108. A second cover 112 is provided between the control lever 108 and the first cover 110. To engage the control lever 108, the first cover 110 and the second cover 112 are removed to allow access to the control lever 108.

[0033] One or more sensors 114 are adjacent to the first cover 110 and the second cover 112. For example, one or more first sensors 114 are adjacent to the first cover 110, and one or more second sensors 114 are adjacent to the second cover 112. The sensors 114 are configured to detect when the first cover 110 and the second cover 112 are removed. In at least one embodiment, the sensors 114 are mounted on and / or within the emergency exit door 102.

[0034] In at least one embodiment, the sensors 114 are proximity sensors configured to detect the positions of the first cover 110 and the second cover 112. For example, the sensors 114 may be ultrasonic sensors. As another embodiment, the sensors 114 may be infrared sensors. As another embodiment, the sensors 114 may be inductive sensors, capacitive sensors, or optoelectronic sensors. As another embodiment, the sensors 114 may be mechanical sensors, such as may include springs, pawls, etc. configured to detect pressure.

[0035] The sensors 114 communicate with a control unit 116, such as via one or more wired or wireless connections. The control unit 116 may be provided on or within the emergency exit door 102. As another embodiment, the control unit 116 may be remote from the emergency exit door 102, such as above or within a frame, wall, ceiling, floor, etc.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, the alarm device 118 also communicates with the control unit 116, such as via one or more wired or wireless connections. The alarm device 118 can be fixed to the emergency exit door 102 (such as mounted or otherwise disposed on or within the emergency exit door), such as facing the passenger seating area of the interior compartment 104. Optionally, the alarm device 118 can be remote from the emergency exit door 102, such as above or within a frame, wall, ceiling, floor, etc. For example, the alarm device 118 can be within the flight deck, cockpit, galley, crew rest area, etc.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the alarm device 118 includes a speaker 120 and a light 122. The speaker 120 is configured to broadcast an audio signal within the interior compartment 104. The light 122 can be one or more of an incandescent lamp, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), a strobe light, etc. Optionally, the alarm device 118 can include only one of the speaker 120 or the light 122.

[0038] Optionally, the system 100 can not include the alarm device 118. Instead, the control unit 116 can communicate with a computer, a handheld device, etc. (such as the computer, handheld device, etc. of the crew within the aircraft 106).

[0039] Optionally, the system 100 can not include the control unit 116. Instead, the sensor 114 can communicate with the alarm device 118 and is configured to automatically trigger the alarm device 118 in response to detecting a change in the first cover 110 and / or the second cover 112.

[0040] In operation, the sensor 114 detects when the first cover 110 and the second cover 112 are in the covering position. For example, the sensor 114 detects the distance between the first cover 110 and the second cover 112 in the covering position. The sensor 114 outputs a covering signal regarding the covering position of the first cover 110 and the second cover 112. When the first cover 110 and the second cover 112 are in the removed position, the sensor 114 detects a change in distance relative to the first cover 110 and the second cover 112. In response to this change, the sensor 114 outputs a removal signal indicating that the first cover 110 and / or the second cover 112 has been removed to the control unit 116. In at least one embodiment, the sensor 114 does not output a covering signal. Instead, in this embodiment, the sensor 114 only outputs a removal signal in response to detecting that the first cover 110 and / or the second cover 112 has been removed.

[0041] When the first cover 110 is removed, the sensor 114 outputs a first removal signal to the control unit 116. In response to receiving the first removal signal, the control unit 116 outputs a first alarm signal to the alarm device 118. The first alarm signal causes the alarm device 118 to provide a first alarm, such as a first alarm broadcast through the speaker 120 and / or a first lighting indication shown by the light 122. For example, the first alarm may be an audible message indicating that the first cover 110 has been removed and the emergency exit door 102 has been engaged. The first alarm is configured to warn individuals inside the internal compartment 104 that an individual is attempting to engage the emergency exit door 102, which, in non-emergency situations, would cause the individual to refrain from further engagement, and / or allow others to persuade the individual to refrain from engaging the emergency exit door 102.

[0042] If an individual continues to engage the emergency exit door 102 by removing the first cover 110 and removing the second cover 112 to access the control lever 108, the sensor 114 outputs a second removal signal to the control unit 116. In response to receiving the second removal signal, the control unit 116 outputs a second alarm signal to the alarm device 118. The second alarm signal causes the alarm device 118 to provide a second alarm, such as a second alarm broadcast through the speaker 120 and / or a second lighting indication shown by the light 122. For example, the second alarm may be an audible message indicating that the second cover 112 has been removed and the emergency exit door 102 has been engaged. The second alarm may have an increased intensity relative to the first alarm. For example, the second alarm may be louder (as broadcast through the speaker 120) and / or brighter (such as a flashing illuminated light) than the first alarm. The second alarm is configured to warn individuals inside the internal compartment 104 that an individual is attempting to further engage the emergency exit door 102, which, in non-emergency situations, would cause the individual to refrain from further engagement, and / or allow others to persuade the individual to refrain from further engaging the emergency exit door 102.

[0043] If an individual continues to engage the emergency exit door 102 by grasping and pulling the control lever, the control unit 116 (the control unit may communicate with the control lever 108, for example, through one or more wired or wireless connections) outputs an open signal to the alarm device 118. The open signal causes the alarm device 118 to provide a third alarm or an open alarm, such as broadcast through the speaker 120 and / or shown by the light 122, indicating that the emergency exit door 102 has been opened.

[0044] As described herein, in at least one embodiment, system 100 includes an emergency exit door 102 for an interior compartment 104 of an aircraft 106. The emergency exit door 102 includes a control lever 108 configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door 102. A first cover 110 is removably fixed to the emergency exit door 102. The first cover 110 is configured to be removed to access the control lever 108. A second cover 112 is disposed between the control lever 108 and the first cover 110. The second cover 112 is configured to be removed to access the control lever 108.

[0045] One or more sensors 114 are configured to detect the positions of the first cover 110 and the second cover 112. For example, one or more first sensors are configured to detect the first cover 110, and one or more second sensors are configured to detect the second cover 112.

[0046] An alarm device 118 is configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover 110 and the second cover 112. The alarm device 118 includes one or both of a speaker 120 or a light 122. The alarm may include a first alarm in response to the removal of the first cover 110, and a second alarm in response to the removal of the second cover 112. The first alarm is different from the second alarm.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, a control unit 116 communicates with the sensors 114. The control unit 116 is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover 110 and the second cover 112.

[0048] Figure 2 A flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Referring Figure 1 and Figure 2 , at 130, the position of the first cover 110 is detected by the sensor 114. At 132, the control unit 116 determines, via communication with the sensor 114, whether the first cover 110 is in a first covered position. If the first cover 110 is in the first covered position, the method returns to 130.

[0049] However, if the first cover 110 is not in the first covered position (such as in a first removed position), the method proceeds from 132 to 134, where at 134, the control unit 116 provides a first alarm through the alarm device 118. The first alarm may be an audio signal broadcast through the speaker 120, and / or illumination shown by the light 122 (such as an illuminated colored illumination signal, a flashing or blinking illumination signal, etc.).

[0050] At 136, the position of the second lid 112 (the second lid is arranged to be closer to the control lever 108 than the first lid 110) is detected by the sensor 114. At 138, the control unit 116 determines, via communication with the sensor 114, whether the second lid 112 is in the second covering position. If the second lid 112 is in the second covering position, the method returns to 136.

[0051] However, if the second lid 112 is not in the second covering position (such as in the second removal position), the method proceeds from 138 to 140, where the control unit 116 provides a second alert via the alert device 118. The second alert is different from the first alert and can be an audio signal broadcast via the speaker 120, and / or illumination shown by the lamp 122 (such as an illuminated colored illumination signal, a flashing or blinking illumination signal, etc.).

[0052] Then, at 142, the position of the control lever 108 is detected. At 144, the control unit 116 determines, such as via communication with the control lever 108, whether the emergency exit door 102 is open. If not, the method returns to 142. If so, the method proceeds from 144 to 146, where the control unit 116 provides a third alert via the alert device 118. The third alert can be an alert that the door is open. Optionally, the method may not include steps 142 to 146. Additionally, alternatively, the method may not include steps 136 to 140.

[0053] Figure 3 A perspective front view of an aircraft 210 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aircraft 210 is Figure 1 an embodiment of the aircraft 106 shown. For example, the aircraft 210 includes a propulsion system 212 that includes engines 214. Optionally, the propulsion system 212 may include more engines 214 than shown. The engines 214 are carried by the wings 216 of the aircraft 210. In other embodiments, the engines 214 may be carried by the fuselage 218 and / or the tail fin 220. The tail fin 220 may also support the horizontal stabilizer 222 and the vertical stabilizer 224.

[0054] The fuselage 218 of the aircraft 210 defines an internal compartment 230 that includes a flight deck, one or more work areas (such as a galley, a carry-on luggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (such as a first-class, business-class, and economy-class areas), one or more lavatories, etc. The internal compartment 230 is Figure 1 an embodiment of the internal compartment 104 shown.

[0055] Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with a variety of other transportation vehicles (such as cars, buses, locomotives, and railroad cars, ships, etc.). Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used for fixed structures (such as commercial and residential buildings).

[0056] Figure 4A A top plan view of an interior cabin 230 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The interior cabin 230 may be within the fuselage 232 of the aircraft, such as Figure 3 the fuselage 218. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior cabin 230. The interior cabin 230 includes a plurality of areas, including a forward area 233, a first class area 234, a business class area 236, one or more galley stations 238, an extended economy or second class area 240, a standard economy in the second class area 242, and a tail area 244. It should be understood that the interior cabin 230 may include more or fewer areas than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 may not include a first class area and may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each of the areas may be separated by a cabin transition area 246, which may include a seat partition assembly between the aisles.

[0057] As Figure 4A shown, the interior cabin 230 includes two aisles 250 and 252 leading to the tail area 244. Optionally, the interior cabin 230 may have fewer or more aisles than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 may include a single aisle leading to the tail area 244 that extends through the center of the interior cabin 230.

[0058] An emergency exit door 102 is located within the interior cabin 230. The emergency exit door 102 is configured as shown and described herein.

[0059] Figure 4B A top plan view of an interior cabin 260 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The interior cabin 260 is Figure 3 an embodiment of the interior cabin 230 shown. The interior cabin 260 may be within the fuselage 261 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior cabin 260. The interior cabin 260 includes a plurality of areas, including a main cabin 262 having passenger seats, and a tail area 265 behind the main cabin 262. It should be understood that the interior cabin 260 may include more or fewer areas than shown.

[0060] The interior cabin 260 may include a single aisle 264 leading to the tail area 265. The single aisle 264 may extend through the center of the interior cabin 260 to the tail area 265. For example, the single aisle 264 may be coaxially aligned with the central longitudinal plane of the interior cabin 260. The aisle may optionally be offset from the centerline of the fuselage.

[0061] The emergency exit door 102 is located within the interior cabin 260. The emergency exit door 102 is configured as shown and described herein.

[0062] Figure 5 A perspective interior view of an interior cabin 281 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The interior cabin 281 is Figure 1 an embodiment of the interior cabin 104 shown. The interior cabin 281 includes a lateral wall 283 connected to a ceiling 285. A window 287 may be formed within the lateral wall 283. A floor 288 supports multiple rows of seats 289. As Figure 5 shown, row 290 may include two seats 289 on either side of an aisle 291. However, row 290 may include more or fewer seats 289 than shown. Additionally, the interior cabin 281 may include more aisles than shown.

[0063] An overhead luggage rack assembly 293 is fixed to the ceiling 285 and / or the lateral wall 283. The overhead luggage rack assembly 293 is fixed above the seats 289. The overhead luggage rack assembly 293 extends between a front end and a rear end of the interior cabin 281. Each overhead luggage rack assembly 293 may include a pivotable rack or bin 295 pivotally fixed to a strongback. For example, the overhead luggage rack assembly 293 is configured to pivot open to receive carry-on luggage and personal items of passengers.

[0064] Figure 6 An isometric front view of an emergency exit door 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 Shown is Figure 6 a front view of the emergency exit door 102. Referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the emergency exit door 102 includes a body 300 having a front surface 302 and a rear surface 304 opposite the front surface 302. When the emergency exit door 102 is in the closed position, the front surface 302 is arranged to face the passenger seating area of the interior cabin, while the rear surface 304 is arranged to face the exterior of the aircraft.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, a window 306 is formed within the emergency exit door 102. The window 306 is disposed within a passage that passes between and through the front surface 302 and the rear surface 304.

[0066] The first cover 110 is disposed above the window 306. The first cover 110 includes an outer frame 310 surrounding a transparent sheet 312 formed of, for example, transparent plastic, glass, etc. The transparent sheet 312 allows viewing therethrough. Thus, the second cover 112 is visible through the transparent sheet 312. The second cover 112 may be a flat plate 320 having a plurality of openings 322 formed therethrough. For example, the flat plate 320 may be formed of plastic and / or metal. The openings 322 allow at least a portion of the control lever 108 to be seen through the openings. Optionally, the flat plate 320 may not include the openings 322.

[0067] The second cover 112 may further include an engagement member configured to be grasped and pulled by an individual. The engagement member may extend outwardly from the flat plate 320 toward the first cover 110 in a covering position. The engagement member may be a handle, a strip, a cord, a cable, and / or the like.

[0068] As shown, the control lever 108 is disposed within a recess 330 (such as a cavity) formed in the main body 300. The second cover 112 is disposed within and / or above the recess 330. When the second cover 112 is in the covering position (as Figure 6 shown), the second cover 112 is disposed between the control lever 108 and the first cover 110. The first cover 110 in the covering position is disposed above the second cover 112, such as above and around the recess 330.

[0069] The first sensor 114a is fixed to the main body 300. The first sensor 114a may be fixed between the main bodies 300 surrounding the transparent sheet 312. The first sensor 114a is configured to detect the position of the first cover 110. One or more additional first sensors 114a may also be used. Although not visible in Figure 6 and Figure 7 the second sensor 114b is also fixed to the main body 300 and is configured to detect the position of the second cover 112. One or more additional second sensors 114b may also be used.

[0070] Figure 8 An isometric front view of an emergency exit door 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In this embodiment, the alarm device 118 may be fixed to the front surface 302, such as offset from one side of the first cover 110. Optionally, the alarm device 118 may be fixed to other structures within the interior compartment.

[0071] Figure 9 A front view of the alarm device 118 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In at least one embodiment, the alarm device 118 includes a housing 400 that holds a speaker 120 and a light 122. Optionally, the speaker 120 and / or the light 122 may be directly mounted to the front surface 302 ( Figure 8shown without a separate housing.

[0072] Figure 10 FIG. 4 shows a front view of a system 100 with a first cover 110 removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 100 may include two or more first sensors 114a configured to detect the position of the first cover 110.

[0073] Figure 11 FIG. 5 shows a front view of a system 100 with a second cover 112 removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 100 may include two or more second sensors 114b configured to detect the position of the second cover 112.

[0074] Figure 12 FIG. 6 shows a front view of a control lever 108 within a recess 330 of an emergency exit door 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 includes two first sensors 114a on a front surface 302 (outside of the recess 330), the two first sensors being configured to detect the position of the first cover 110 (e.g., as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 10 ). The system 100 also includes two second sensors 114b within the recess 330, the two second sensors being configured to detect the position of the second cover 112 (as shown in Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 ). The system 100 may include fewer or more sensors than shown. Additionally, the sensors may be disposed at different locations than shown.

[0075] Figure 13 FIG. 7 shows a schematic block diagram of a control unit 116, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the control unit 116 includes at least one processor 401 in communication with a memory 402. The memory 402 stores instructions 404, received data 406, and generated data 408. Figure 13 The control unit 116 shown in

[0076] As used herein, the terms "control unit", "central processing unit", "CPU", "computer", etc. can include any processor-based or microprocessor-based system, including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), logic circuits, and any other circuit or processor including hardware, software, or a combination thereof capable of performing the functions described herein. This is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the definition and / or meaning of such terms in any way. For example, control unit 116 can be or include one or more processors configured to control operations, as described herein.

[0077] Control unit 116 is configured to execute an instruction set stored in one or more data storage units or elements, such as one or more memories, to process data. For example, control unit 116 can include or be coupled to one or more memories. The data storage unit can also store data or other information as desired or needed. The data storage unit can be in the form of an information source within the processor or a physical memory element.

[0078] The instruction set can include various commands that direct control unit 116, as a processor, to perform specific operations, such as the methods and processes of various embodiments of the subject matter described herein. The instruction set can be in the form of a software program. The software can be in various forms, such as system software or application software. Additionally, the software can be in the form of a collection of independent programs, a subset of a program within a larger program, or a part of a program. The software can also include modular programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The processing of input data by the processor can be in response to a user command, or in response to the result of a previous processing, or in response to a request made by another processor.

[0079] The diagrams of the embodiments herein can show one or more control or processing units, such as control unit 116. It should be understood that a processing or control unit can represent a circuit, circuitry, or a portion thereof that can be implemented as hardware (e.g., software stored on a tangible and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as a computer hard drive, ROM, RAM, etc.) having associated instructions for performing the operations described herein. The hardware can include state machine circuitry hardwired to perform the functions described herein. Optionally, the hardware can include an electronic circuit that includes and / or is connected to one or more logic-based devices, such as a microprocessor, a processor, a controller, etc. Optionally, control unit 116 can represent a processing circuit, such as one or more of a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microprocessor, etc. The circuitry in various embodiments can be configured to execute one or more algorithms to perform the functions described herein. Whether or not explicitly identified in a flowchart or method, one or more algorithms can include aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0080] As used herein, the terms “software” and “firmware” are interchangeable and include any computer program stored in a data storage unit (e.g., one or more memories) for execution by a computer, the data storage unit including RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The above data storage unit types are merely exemplary and thus do not limit the types of memories that can be used to store computer programs.

[0081] Reference Figures 1 to 13 , as described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods configured to prevent unnecessary opening of an emergency exit door 102. The systems and methods are efficient, effective, safe, reliable, and compliant with regulations promulgated by an agency such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States. The systems and methods are configured to detect unnecessary opening of the emergency exit door.

[0082] In at least one embodiment, the systems and methods described herein provide a two-stage alarm having one or more first sensors 114a located between a front surface 302 and a first cover 110. When the sensors detect movement of the first cover 110, an alarm device 118 outputs a first alarm, such as in the form of a shrill sound and a high-intensity flashing light, which warns passengers and crew of the engagement of the emergency exit door 102. In a second stage, if an individual still persists in opening the emergency exit door 102 and removes a second cover 112, one or more second sensors 114b detect movement of the second cover 112, and the alarm device 118 outputs a second alarm, which may have an increased intensity relative to the first alarm.

[0083] The systems and methods described herein are configured to warn passengers and crew of an unnecessary attempted opening of an emergency exit door, thereby allowing a response thereto before the emergency exit door is actually opened. Thus, the systems and methods described herein prevent injury to individuals and damage to the aircraft.

[0084] In addition, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

[0085] Clause 1. A system, comprising:

[0086] An emergency exit door for an interior compartment of an aircraft, the emergency exit door including a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door;

[0087] A first cover removably secured to the emergency exit door, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever; and

[0088] A second cover, which is disposed between the control rod and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control rod.

[0089] Clause 2. The system according to Clause 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect the positions of the first cover and the second cover.

[0090] Clause 3. The system according to Clause 2, wherein the one or more sensors include:

[0091] One or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover; and

[0092] One or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

[0093] Clause 4. The system according to Clause 2 or Clause 3, further comprising an alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

[0094] Clause 5. The system according to Clause 4, wherein the alarm device is fixed to the emergency exit door.

[0095] Clause 6. The system according to Clause 4 or Clause 5, wherein the alarm device includes one or both of a speaker and a light.

[0096] Clause 7. The system according to any one of Clauses 4 to 6, wherein the one or more alarms include a first alarm in response to the removal of the first cover and a second alarm in response to the removal of the second cover.

[0097] Clause 8. The system according to Clause 7, wherein the first alarm is different from the second alarm.

[0098] Clause 9. The system according to any one of Clauses 2 to 8, further comprising a control unit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

[0099] Clause 10. The system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the first cover includes an outer frame surrounding a transparent sheet.

[0100] Clause 11. The system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the second cover includes a flat plate having an opening.

[0101] Clause 12. An aircraft, comprising:

[0102] An interior cabin; and

[0103] A system, comprising:

[0104] An emergency exit door within an interior cabin, the emergency exit door including a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door;

[0105] A first cover removably secured to the emergency exit door, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever;

[0106] A second cover disposed between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever;

[0107] One or more sensors configured to detect the positions of the first cover and the second cover;

[0108] A control unit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover; and

[0109] An alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

[0110] Clause 13. The aircraft according to clause 12, wherein the one or more sensors include:

[0111] One or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover; and

[0112] One or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

[0113] Clause 14. The aircraft according to clause 12 or clause 13, wherein the alarm device is secured to the emergency exit door.

[0114] Clause 15. The aircraft according to any one of clauses 12 to 14, wherein the alarm device includes one or both of a speaker or a light.

[0115] Clause 16. The aircraft according to any one of clauses 12 to 15, wherein the one or more alarms include a first alarm in response to the removal of the first cover and a second alarm in response to the removal of the second cover, and wherein the first alarm is different from the second alarm.

[0116] Clause 17. The aircraft according to any one of clauses 12 to 16, wherein the first cover includes an outer frame surrounding a transparent sheet, and wherein the second cover includes a flat plate having an opening.

[0117] Clause 18. A system, comprising:

[0118] An emergency exit door for an interior cabin of an aircraft, the emergency exit door including a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door;

[0119] One or more covers removably fixed to an emergency exit door, wherein the one or more covers are configured to be removed to access a control lever; and

[0120] One or more sensors configured to detect the positions of a first cover and a second cover.

[0121] Clause 19. The system according to Clause 18, wherein the one or more covers include:

[0122] A first cover removably fixed to an emergency exit door, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access a control lever; and

[0123] A second cover disposed between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever, and

[0124] wherein the one or more sensors include:

[0125] One or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover; and

[0126] One or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

[0127] Clause 20. The system according to Clause 18, further comprising:

[0128] A control unit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover; and

[0129] An alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover, wherein the alarm device includes one or both of a speaker or a light.

[0130] Clause 21. A method, comprising:

[0131] Removably fixing a first cover to an emergency exit door of an aircraft, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access a control lever; and

[0132] Removably fixing a second cover between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever.

[0133] Clause 22. The method according to Clause 21, further comprising: detecting the positions of the first cover and the second cover by one or more sensors.

[0134] Clause 23. The method according to Clause 21 or Clause 22, further comprising outputting one or more alarms by an alarm device in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

[0135] Clause 24. The method according to any one of Clauses 21 to 23 further includes outputting, by a control unit in communication with one or more sensors, one or more alert signals in response to removal of the first and second covers.

[0136] As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for providing an alert regarding an attempted engagement of an emergency exit door. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for warning of an engagement of such a door before an individual within the interior cabin of an aircraft opens the emergency exit door.

[0137] 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 used only with respect to the orientation shown in the drawings. The orientation may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise changed such that the upper portion is the lower portion, the tail may change to the front, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0138] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element “configured to” perform a task or operation is specifically formed, constructed, or adapted structurally in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For purposes of clarity and to avoid doubt, 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.

[0139] 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 various embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of various embodiments of the present disclosure, these embodiments are in no way restrictive, but rather are exemplary embodiments. After reviewing the above description, many other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the scope of 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 detailed description herein, the terms “comprising” and “wherein” are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms “including” and “wherein”. Additionally, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, 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, paragraph 6, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” following a statement of function that recites structure for avoiding additional structure.

[0140] This written description uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the present disclosure, including the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice 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 embodiments that occur to those skilled in the art. If the embodiments have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if the embodiments include equivalent structural elements that do not have a substantial difference from the literal language of the claims, then these other embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A system for providing an alarm for the engagement of an emergency exit door of an aircraft, the system comprising: An emergency exit door for an interior cabin of an aircraft, the emergency exit door including a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door; A first cover removably fixed to the emergency exit door, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever; and A second cover disposed between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect the positions of the first cover and the second cover.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The one or more sensors include: One or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover; and One or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

4. The system according to claim 2, further comprising: An alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein The alarm device is fixed to the emergency exit door.

6. The system according to claim 4, wherein The alarm device includes one or both of a speaker or a light.

7. The system according to claim 4, wherein The one or more alarms include a first alarm in response to the removal of the first cover and a second alarm in response to the removal of the second cover.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The first alarm is different from the second alarm.

9. The system according to claim 2, further comprising: A control unit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first cover includes an outer frame surrounding a transparent sheet.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The second cover includes a flat plate having an opening.

12. An aircraft, comprising: An interior cabin; And A system for providing an alarm for the engagement of an emergency exit door of an aircraft, comprising: An emergency exit door within the interior cabin, the emergency exit door including a control lever configured to be engaged to open the emergency exit door; A first cover removably fixed to the emergency exit door, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever; A second cover disposed between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever; One or more sensors configured to detect the positions of the first cover and the second cover; A control unit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover; and An alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the first cover and the second cover.

13. The aircraft according to claim 12, wherein, The one or more sensors include: One or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover; and One or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

14. The aircraft according to claim 12, wherein, The alarm device is fixed to the emergency exit door.

15. The aircraft according to claim 12, wherein, The alarm device includes one or both of a speaker or a light.

16. The aircraft according to claim 12, wherein, The one or more alarms include a first alarm in response to the removal of the first cover and a second alarm in response to the removal of the second cover, and wherein the first alarm is different from the second alarm.

17. The aircraft according to claim 12, wherein, The first cover includes an outer frame surrounding the transparent sheet, and wherein, the second cover includes a flat plate having an opening.

18. A system for providing an engagement alarm for an emergency exit door of an aircraft, the system comprising: An emergency exit door for an interior compartment of an aircraft, the emergency exit door including a control lever configured to engage to open the emergency exit door; One or more covers removably fixed to the emergency exit door, wherein the one or more covers are configured to be removed to access the control lever; And One or more sensors configured to detect the position of the one or more covers.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein, The one or more covers include: A first cover removably fixed to the emergency exit door, wherein the first cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever; and A second cover disposed between the control lever and the first cover, wherein the second cover is configured to be removed to access the control lever, and Wherein, the one or more sensors include: One or more first sensors configured to detect the first cover; and One or more second sensors configured to detect the second cover.

20. The system according to claim 18, further comprising: A control unit in communication with the one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to output one or more alarm signals in response to the removal of the one or more covers; and An alarm device configured to output one or more alarms in response to the removal of the one or more covers, wherein the alarm device includes one or both of a speaker or a light.

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