Camera module and system for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft as well as aircraft

Abstract

Camera module (1) for monitoring a passenger cabin (210) of an aircraft (200), comprising: a cover device (2) for fastening in a longitudinal recess (111) of a supply channel (110) with a support part (20) which has a circular fastening recess (21) and a bearing structure (22) which at least partially surrounds the fastening recess (21); a camera device (3) with a camera housing (30) which has a bearing section (35) with a spherically curved outer surface (35a), and a camera unit which has a lens (31) received in a front recess (30A) of the camera housing (30), an optical sensor (32) arranged in an interior (I30) of the camera housing (30) for generating image data and a data interface (33) for transmitting the image data, wherein the camera housing (30) with the bearing section (35) is rotatably or pivotably mounted in the bearing structure (22) about at least two axes; and a locking device (4) for locking the camera housing (30) relative to the bearing structure (22); wherein the camera equipment (3): an evaluation unit (34) connected to the sensor (32) and the data interface (33) for evaluating the image data, wherein the evaluation unit (34) is configured to recognize predetermined image patterns in the image data and to only release the transmission of the image data through the data interface (33) when a predetermined image pattern is recognized, or additionally includes a motion sensor (36) for detecting movements in the field of view of the optical sensor (32) and an evaluation unit (34), wherein the motion sensor (36) is connected to the evaluation unit (34) and the evaluation unit (34) is configured to only allow the transmission of the image data through the data interface (33) when a movement is detected by the motion sensor (36); wherein the evaluation unit (34) is configured to convert the image data into image information data and to provide this, optionally instead of the image data, at the data interface, wherein the image information data contains binary state information about a state of one or more cabin components, in particular with regard to a swivel position of a storage tray arranged on a passenger seat, a closing state of a seat belt and / or an occupancy state of a passenger seat.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera module and a system for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft, and to an aircraft, in particular a passenger aircraft.

[0002] For various reasons, aircraft passenger cabins are increasingly being equipped with surveillance systems, particularly camera surveillance systems. These systems involve installing cameras in the passenger cabins that record video images of the cabin and display them on a screen for the cabin crew.

[0003] One challenge with such surveillance systems is the arrangement and power supply of the cameras in the passenger cabin. On the one hand, space-saving and unobtrusive camera mounting is desirable. On the other hand, a good overview of the passenger cabin interior should be obtained with as few cameras as possible. Against this background, DE 20 2017 107 834 U1 describes mounting a camera system in a cover of a service duct, on which a number of service units, so-called Passenger Service Units (PSUs), are also arranged. US 2007 / 0 057 785 A1 further describes wireless data transmission from cameras of a passenger cabin surveillance system to a control unit.

[0004] Furthermore, EP 3 101 474 A1 describes a camera adjustment mechanism with which a user can adjust the orientation of a surveillance camera. DE 20 2008 002 648 U1 describes a housing for installation in a mounting opening and for accommodating a camera that provides a field of view. DE 10 2005 018 316 A1 describes an installation kit for a camera to create different camera mounting positions. DE 38 20 894 A1 describes a lighting fixture for illuminating a limited area. US 2015 / 0 090 839 A1 describes a passenger service unit for a transport ship.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved concept for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft.

[0006] This problem is solved by a camera module having the features of claim 1, by a system having the features of claim 7 and by an aircraft having the features of claim 10.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a camera module for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft is provided. The camera module comprises a cover for mounting in a longitudinal recess of a supply channel, with a support part having a circular mounting recess and a bearing structure at least partially surrounding the mounting recess, and a camera assembly. The camera assembly comprises a camera housing having a bearing section with a spherically curved outer surface, and a camera unit comprising a lens received in a front recess of the camera housing, an optical sensor arranged in an interior of the camera housing for generating image data, in particular video image data, and a data interface for transmitting the image data, wherein the camera housing with the bearing section is rotatably or pivotably mounted in the bearing structure about at least two axes.Furthermore, the camera module has a locking device for locking the camera housing relative to the bearing structure.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the invention, a system for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft is provided. The system comprises a supply channel extending in a longitudinal direction, which has a longitudinal recess extending in the longitudinal direction of the channel, at least one camera module according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the support part of the camera module is attached in the longitudinal recess of the supply channel, and an image display device which is connected to the data interface of the camera device via a data network, e.g. a LAN, a WLAN or a Bluetooth network, and is configured to display image data provided by the camera device.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the invention, an aircraft is provided. The aircraft has a passenger cabin with a plurality of passenger seat rows arranged one behind the other with respect to a cabin longitudinal direction, and a system according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the supply duct is arranged above the passenger seat rows and extends with the duct longitudinal direction in the cabin longitudinal direction.

[0010] One of the underlying ideas of the invention is to mount a camera module with a camera device for recording video images in a cover device of a supply duct so as to be pivotable about at least two axes of rotation, in order to facilitate flexible alignment of the camera device during the installation of the camera module on the supply duct. The video images captured by the camera device are transmitted as image data via a data interface to an image display device, e.g., a display, where they can be viewed by the cabin crew.

[0011] The service channel serves as a mounting structure for so-called Passenger Service Units (PSUs), i.e., service units for aircraft passengers, which include, for example, air conditioning vents, reading lights, seatbelt indicators, or the like. Simultaneously, the service channel serves as a conduit for the PSUs' supply lines. The camera module according to the invention has a cover with a flat, e.g., plate-shaped support element, which can be inserted into a recess in the service channel and attached to it, e.g., by means of clamps or the like. The support element has a circular mounting recess or opening. The camera module's camera unit has a housing that defines an interior space in which a camera sensor and, optionally, other camera electronics components are housed.The housing can, in particular, have a base section and a front section projecting from it, wherein a front recess is formed in the front section. An optical lens of the camera device is arranged in or on the front recess of the housing, so that the lens focuses incident light onto the camera sensor. Optionally, further lenses or, more generally, a camera optic are provided. The housing as a whole can have a spherical or dome-shaped outer form.

[0012] The housing has a spherically curved bearing section, which is mounted on a bearing structure attached to or integrally formed with the support part. The spherical curvature of the bearing section allows for easy pivoting of the camera in various spatial directions. The bearing structure extends at least partially around the circumference of the mounting recess. A locking device, such as a clamping screw or similar, fixes the camera housing in the set pivot position relative to the bearing structure or the support part.

[0013] One of the advantages of the invention is that the swiveling mounting of the camera unit allows the viewing angle in which video image data can be captured to be flexibly adapted to the respective cabin layout, i.e., the arrangement of the seat rows. The cover device enables the camera module to be mounted in a service duct. This allows one or more camera modules to be distributed along the service duct within a passenger cabin. This facilitates the monitoring of a large portion of the passenger cabin. Furthermore, the electrical supply to the camera module is simplified by the supply lines typically provided in the service duct.

[0014] The camera housing's at least partially spherical design facilitates swivel mounting while maintaining a compact housing design. This allows the camera system to be discreetly integrated into the cover mechanism.

[0015] Advantageous designs and further developments result from the subclaims relating back to the independent claims in conjunction with the description.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the camera module, the bearing structure comprises a base part attached to the support part and a bearing element guided on the base part along a guide direction coaxial with a central axis of the mounting recess. The outer surface of the bearing element of the camera housing rests with a first area against a contact section of the base part and with an area opposite to the guide direction against the bearing element. The camera housing is frictionally locked between the bearing element and the contact section of the base part by means of the locking device. Thus, the bearing structure forms a two-part shell of a ball joint, with the bearing element of the camera housing guided between the contact section of the base part, which forms a first half-shell of the joint, and the bearing element, which forms a second half-shell of the joint.The locking mechanism pre-tensions the bearing piece towards the mounting section of the base part, thereby clamping the bearing section of the camera housing between the bearing piece and the mounting section of the base part. This results in a structurally simple, pivotable mounting and locking mechanism for the camera housing.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the locking device is formed by a retaining ring, which preloads the bearing in the direction of the contact section of the base part and is detachably attached to the base part. For example, the retaining ring can have an external thread which is screwed into an internal thread provided on the base part to apply the preload. The retaining ring can optionally be formed integrally with the bearing, e.g., by the bearing having an external thread so that it can be screwed into the base part. It is also conceivable to preload the retaining ring, regardless of whether it is formed by the bearing itself or implemented as a separate component, by means of springs in the direction of the contact section of the base part. These design options each provide structurally simple solutions for the pivotable mounting and locking of the camera housing.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the data interface is designed for wireless data transmission, e.g., as a Wi-Fi interface, a Bluetooth interface, or the like. Wireless data transmission reduces the cabling effort in the supply channel and simultaneously enables a high data transmission rate to various receivers, so that the video image data can be flexibly distributed to one or more display devices.

[0019] According to the invention, the camera device includes an evaluation unit connected to the sensor and the data interface for evaluating the image data. The evaluation unit is configured to recognize predetermined motion patterns in the image data and to only release the transmission of the image data through the data interface when a predetermined motion pattern is recognized. The evaluation unit can, in particular, include a processor and a data memory readable by the processor and can, for example, be implemented as a microprocessor. The evaluation unit is configured to execute an image processing algorithm, which can, for example, be stored as software on the data memory. The image processing algorithm evaluates the image data provided by the camera sensor to determine whether certain motion patterns are present. In the simplest case, a motion pattern can be, for example,This is defined by the fact that a predetermined area of ​​the image is obscured by an object, for example, because a passenger moves from their seat or stands up. This allows for the simple integration of a type of motion sensor into the camera system, which can be adapted with particular flexibility to the specific installation conditions of the camera module using software. The evaluation unit only releases data transmission via the data interface when a predetermined movement pattern is detected, for example, by the evaluation unit itself providing the image data at the data interface. This significantly reduces the amount of data actually transmitted. Furthermore, the monitoring effort for the cabin crew is advantageously reduced, as images are only displayed on the screen when a relevant movement is actually detected, such as a passenger standing up during a critical phase of flight like takeoff or landing.

[0020] Optionally, the camera's sensor can be configured as a photomixing detector (PMD sensor), which emits light pulses and measures the time of flight of the light signal. This enables the implementation of a so-called ToF camera, where "ToF" stands for "Time of Flight." This further facilitates motion detection.

[0021] According to the invention, it is alternatively provided that the camera device comprises a motion sensor for detecting movements within the camera sensor's field of view and an evaluation unit, wherein the motion sensor is connected to the evaluation unit and the evaluation unit is configured to only enable the transmission of image data via the data interface when movement is detected by the motion sensor. The evaluation unit can be implemented, for example, as a microprocessor or the like, as described above, or as an analog switching device that activates or deactivates the data interface. The motion sensor can be integrated into the front recess of the camera housing and can be implemented, for example, as a radar, infrared, or similar sensor.

[0022] According to the invention, the evaluation unit is configured to convert the image data into image information data and make this available at the data interface. This is done either as an alternative or in addition to providing the image data. The image information data contains binary status information about the state of one or more cabin components. For example, status information regarding the swivel position of a tray table attached to a passenger seat (extended or folded), the closure state of a seat belt (open or closed), and / or the occupancy state of a passenger seat (empty or occupied) can be determined from the image data, for example, based on the motion data captured by the motion sensor or on the image data captured by the camera.By transmitting the image information data, information about the state of cabin components is provided to the cabin crew that is easily and quickly grasped, abstract from the actual three-dimensional image contained in the image data.

[0023] It is also conceivable to integrate additional sensors into the camera housing, such as temperature sensors, air pressure sensors, humidity sensors, and the like. The sensor signals provided by these sensors can be fed into a data network via the data interface.

[0024] According to another embodiment of the camera module, the camera device includes a light source located on the front section of the camera housing. Specifically, the light source can be arranged together with the lens in the front recess of the camera housing. For example, a light-emitting diode (LED) can be used as the light source. This illuminates the scene being captured, thereby improving image quality. Optionally, the light source can also be used by passengers as a reading lamp, further enhancing the functional integration within the passenger cabin.

[0025] The light source can optionally be configured to emit visible light and / or infrared light. In particular, when emitting infrared light, the scene to be captured by the camera can be illuminated without disturbing the passengers, which is especially advantageous in dark cabins.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the passenger cabin monitoring system, the image display device is implemented as a personal electronic device (PED), such as a tablet PC, smartphone, or similar device. Generally, the image display device comprises a display and a data interface for receiving (video) image data. As a PED, the image display device can be carried by the cabin crew, allowing them to access the images captured by the camera system virtually anywhere they are located.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the image display device can be implemented by a display stationary relative to the power supply channel. The display can be mounted, for example, on an onboard monument such as a galley or lavatory. In particular, the display can be a display of the so-called Flight Attendant Panel, as part of the Cabin Management System (CMS), which serves as an operating and display interface for controlling and displaying various functions of the PSUs. This offers the advantage that, in addition to the usual cabin functions, the monitoring function of the passenger cabin, implemented by the camera modules, is also provided with one and the same image display device.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the aircraft, it comprises a flight attendant seat located in the passenger cabin and a cabin monument opposite the flight attendant seat, such as a galley, lavatory, or partition, to which the image display device is attached, in particular detachably. For example, the image display device, implemented as a personal electronic device, can be attached to a holder provided on the cabin monument, e.g., by a detachable clip or the like. During takeoff and landing, a member of the cabin crew can sit in the flight attendant seat and monitor the cabin area by displaying the images recorded by the camera system on the image display device. This allows for a flexible arrangement of the flight attendant seat within the passenger cabin, as the cabin crew no longer needs a direct view of the rows of seats.

[0029] With regard to directions and axes, in particular directions and axes relating to the course of physical structures, the course of an axis, direction or structure “along” another axis, direction or structure is understood to mean that these, in particular the tangents resulting at a respective point of the structures, each run at an angle of less than 45 degrees, preferably less than 30 degrees and in particular preferably parallel to each other.

[0030] With regard to directions and axes, in particular directions and axes relating to the course of physical structures, the course of an axis, direction or structure "perpendicular" to another axis, direction or structure shall be understood to mean that these, in particular the tangents resulting at a respective point of the structures, each run at an angle of greater than or equal to 45 degrees, preferably greater than or equal to 60 degrees and particularly preferably perpendicular to each other.

[0031] In this context, the terms "one-piece", "integral" or "in one piece" are generally understood to mean that these components exist as a single part forming a single unit of material and are, in particular, manufactured as such, whereby one component cannot be separated from the other without breaking the material cohesion.

[0032] The invention is explained below with reference to the figures of the drawings. The figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic sectional view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 a schematic sectional view of a camera module mounted in a supply channel according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 a schematic top view of a longitudinal opening of a supply channel in which a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention and further service modules (PSUs) are mounted; Fig. 4 a schematic-functional representation of a system for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 a schematic sectional view of a passenger cabin of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 a top view of a passenger cabin of an aircraft according to a further embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 7 a schematic sectional view of a camera module according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] In the figures, the same reference symbols denote identical or functionally identical components, unless otherwise stated.

[0034] Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary and purely schematic cross-sectional view of a camera module 1. The camera module 1 is used to monitor a passenger cabin 210 of an aircraft 200 and can be mounted on a supply channel 110 in the passenger cabin 210, as is done, for example, in Fig. 2 is shown. Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 5 shows an arrangement of the camera module 1 on the supply channel 110 together with optional service modules, so-called Passenger Service Units (PSUs) 150, and also optional dummy modules 151.

[0035] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1 as an example, the camera module 1 has a cover device 2, a camera device 3, and a locking device 4.

[0036] The cover device 2 has a support element 20 and a bearing structure 22 for supporting or receiving the camera device 3. The support element 20 can be implemented, in particular, as a planar component, e.g., as a plate-shaped component as in the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 is shown as an example. The support part 20 can have a fastening structure 20A at each of its opposite lateral end sections, as shown in Figure 2. Fig. 2 is shown as an example. As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the fastening structure 20A can, for example, be formed by a receiving groove into which a corresponding fastening structure 110A of the supply channel 110 can be inserted. As shown in Figure 2. Fig. As further shown in Figure 1, the support part 20 has a fastening recess 21, which can in particular be circular and extends between a first surface 20a and a second surface 20b of the support part 20 located opposite it. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the support element 20 can have one or more curved areas 20B in which the first surface 20a forms a concavely curved recess. The fastening recess 21 is optionally formed in a respective curved area 20B, as shown in Figure 2. Fig. Figure 2 is shown as an example. The support element 20 can have a length l20 in a range between 20 cm and 100 cm and a width b20 in a range between 8 cm and 20 cm. The support element 20 can, in particular, be made of a plastic material or a fiber composite material.

[0037] The bearing structure 22 serves for the swiveling mounting of the camera device 3 and can in particular have a base part 23 and optionally a bearing part 24.

[0038] The base part 23 is attached to the support part 20, e.g. screwed, glued or formed integrally with it, and is arranged on the second surface 20b of the support part, as shown in Fig. Figure 1 is shown as an example. The base part 23 can, for example, be realized as a cylindrical or cuboid component and has a contact section 23A projecting into the mounting recess 21 of the support part 20, which has a contact surface for contact with the camera device 3. Furthermore, the base part 23 has a guide section 23B extending transversely to the contact section 23A. In general, the bearing structure 22 at least partially surrounds the mounting recess 21.

[0039] The guide section 23B defines a guide surface that at least partially encloses a central axis M21 of the mounting recess 21 and extends parallel to the central axis M21 of the mounting recess 21 in a guide direction F. In particular, the guide surface of the guide section 23B defines a guide axis running coaxially to the central axis M21 of the mounting recess 21. As in Fig. As shown by way of example in Figure 1, the optional bearing part 24 with an outer circumferential surface 24a can be slidably mounted on the guide surface of the guide section 23B along the guide direction F.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1 as an example, the camera device 3 comprises a camera housing 30 and a camera unit with a lens 31, an optical sensor or camera sensor 32, and a data interface 33. Optionally, the camera unit can also include a motion sensor 36, e.g., in the form of a radar or infrared sensor, and / or a light source 37, e.g., in the form of an LED.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1 as an example, the camera housing 30 can have a spherical cap-shaped base section 30B and a radially projecting, for example cylindrical, front section 30C. In general, the camera housing 30 defines an interior l30 and has a front recess or opening 30A. Furthermore, the camera housing 30 has a bearing section 35 with a spherically curved outer surface 35a. The spherically curved outer surface 35 forming the bearing section 35 can, for example, be formed directly by the outer surface of the base section 30B of the camera housing 30, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. Figure 1 is shown as an example. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the base section 30B of the camera housing 30 has a cuboid or other shape and that the bearing section 30 is formed on or attached to the base section 30B of the camera housing 30 in the form of a spherical cap. Fig. Figure 1 shows by way of example that the front recess 30A is formed on an end face of the front section 30C. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the front recess 30A is formed on a circumferential surface of the front section 30C connecting the end face with the base section 30B, as is shown by way of example in Fig. Figure 7 is shown. The camera housing 30 can be made of a plastic material in particular.

[0042] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1 as an example, the camera housing 30 rests against, or is guided by, the base section 23A of the base part 23 of the bearing structure 22 with a first area of ​​the bearing section 35 or the spherically curved outer surface 35a. Due to the spherical curvature of the outer surface 35a of the bearing section 35 of the camera housing 30, the camera housing 30 can be rotated or pivoted about at least two pivot axes, so that the front opening 30A can be flexibly aligned in different directions.

[0043] Optionally, the camera housing 30 can bear against the bearing piece 24 with a second area of ​​the bearing section 35 or the spherically curved outer surface 35a, wherein the second area of ​​the bearing section 35 is located opposite to the first area with respect to the guide direction F. The locking device 4, which is located in Fig. 1 For example, a retaining ring, which is screwed into an internal thread provided on the guide section 23B via an external thread 40, pre-tensions the bearing piece 24 along the guide direction F or in the direction of the contact section 23 of the base part 23. This frictionally locks the camera housing 30 between the bearing piece 24 and the contact section 23A of the base part 23. Of course, other types of locking devices 4 are also conceivable that pre-tension the bearing piece 24 in the direction of the contact section 23A of the base part 23 and detachably fasten it to the base part 23, such as springs or locking pins acting on the bearing piece 24 or directly on the housing 30.

[0044] The Fig. One exemplary camera unit comprises a lens 31, an optical camera sensor 32, a data interface 33, an optional evaluation unit 34, an optional motion sensor 36, and an optional light source 37. The lens 31, or more generally an optical lens assembly, is arranged in the front recess 30A of the camera housing 30, e.g., by means of a support (not shown) or by fitting the lens 31 into the front recess 30A.

[0045] The optical sensor 32 is located opposite the lens 31 inside the camera housing 30 (I30). In the Fig. In the exemplary camera module 1, the optical sensor 32 is arranged in the area of ​​the base section 30B of the camera housing 30. In the Fig. In the exemplary camera module 1 shown in Figure 7, the optical sensor 32 is arranged in the area of ​​the front section 30C. Generally, the sensor 32 can be arranged and contacted on a circuit board 38, as shown in Figure 7. Fig. Figure 1 is shown schematically. The optical sensor can be, for example, a CCD sensor, a CMOS sensor, or a PMD sensor and is configured to generate image data based on light in the visible to infrared range, wherein the light is directed or focused onto the sensor 32 by the lens 31. The arrangement of the lens 31 and the sensor 32 relative to each other, as well as the optical properties of the lens 31, defines a field of view V of the camera device. For example, an opening angle α of the field of view V can be up to 185 degrees, preferably between 180 degrees and 60 degrees.

[0046] Data interface 33 is configured for wired or, preferably, wireless data transmission. For example, data interface 33 can be implemented as a WLAN antenna or as a Bluetooth interface. Fig. Figure 1 shows, by way of example, that the data interface 33 is also provided on the circuit board 38. Of course, the data interface 33 can also be provided separately from the circuit board 38, on which the camera sensor 32 is located, or completely separately from a circuit board. The camera sensor 32 is connected to the data interface 33 so that the image data generated by the camera sensor 32 is made available at the data interface 33 and can be transmitted via a data network through it.

[0047] The camera unit also has a 33A electrical supply connection for connection to an electrical voltage source S, such as a typical aircraft voltage of 115 V AC at 400 Hz or 28 V DC. Fig. Figure 1 shows, by way of example, that the power supply connection 33A is formed on the same circuit board 38 on which the camera sensor 38 is arranged. Of course, the power supply connection 33A can also be on a separate circuit board (not shown), which is connected to the one in Fig. The circuit board 38 shown in section 1 is contacted. All components of the camera unit can be supplied with electrical power via the supply connection 33A.

[0048] The optional evaluation unit 34 can, in particular, comprise a processor, e.g., in the form of a CPU, an FPGA, an ASIC, or the like, and memory readable by the processor, e.g., in the form of flash memory or another non-volatile data storage medium. The evaluation unit 34 is connected to the optical sensor 32 and the data interface 33. Software executable by the processor can be stored in the memory. For example, the software can contain image recognition algorithms with which predetermined motion patterns in the image data can be detected. For example, several image data sets acquired sequentially can be compared to detect changes that indicate movement in the camera unit's field of view. Time-of-flight evaluation of light pulses can also be performed, for example, if the optical sensor 32 is configured as a PMD sensor.

[0049] The evaluation unit can, for example, be configured to convert the image data into image information data and provide this data at the data interface, either as an alternative or in addition to the image data representing a three-dimensional scene in the camera unit's field of view V. The image information data contains binary status information about the state of one or more cabin components, such as the swivel position of a tray table attached to a passenger seat, the closed state of a seatbelt, and / or the occupancy status of a passenger seat. This image information data can be detected, for example, using the image recognition algorithm. For instance, image data representing specific image areas can be analyzed for the presence of features that indicate the state of the respective cabin component.The image information data representing the state of a given cabin component may preferably only display two states, e.g., "folded back" or "unfolded" with respect to a tray table, or "occupied" or "free" with respect to a passenger seat.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, the evaluation unit 34 can also be connected to the optional motion sensor 36. The motion sensor 36 can be implemented as a radar sensor or in a similar manner and is configured to detect movements within the field of view of the optical sensor 32. In this way, seat occupancy can also be detected, for example, by determining the "occupied" status upon detection of movement, e.g., based on time-of-flight analysis of radiation emitted by the motion sensor 36, and providing this status as a corresponding image information data set at the data interface 33.

[0051] The evaluation unit 34 can be configured in particular to only allow the transmission of image data through the data interface 33 if a predetermined movement pattern is recognized in the image data or if movement is detected by the motion sensor 36.

[0052] The optional light source 37 serves to illuminate the field of view of the camera device and / or generally as a light source. The light source 37 can be arranged together with the lens 31 in the front recess 30A of the camera housing 30, as shown in Fig. 1 is shown as an example. As in Fig. As can also be seen in Figure 1, the light source 37 can be connected to the evaluation unit 34, which can also be configured to control the light source 37 or to switch it on or off, in particular based on a control command received via the data interface 33. The light source 37 can be configured to emit visible light and / or light in the infrared range and is preferably implemented as an LED.

[0053] Fig. Figure 7 shows another camera module 1, which differs from the one in Fig. 1 differs in particular by the design of the front section 30C of the camera housing 30. As already explained above, in the Fig. In the exemplary camera module 1 shown in Figure 7, the front recess 30A is formed in a circumferential surface of the front section 30C, extending radially to the base section 30B and transversely to the end face of the front section 30C. As shown in Figure 7. Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the lens 31 is arranged in the front recess 30 and the camera sensor 32 is arranged opposite the lens 31 in the front section 30C and thus in the interior I30 of the camera housing 30. Fig. 7 is the one in Fig. One optional motion sensor 36 shown as an example is not depicted, but can of course be provided. As in Fig. 7 is still recognizable, the optional light source 37 can be provided on the front surface of the front section 30C.

[0054] This is based on the exemplary Fig. 1 and Fig. The camera module 1 described in section 7 can be used, in particular, in a system 100 for monitoring a passenger cabin 210 of an aircraft 200. Here, the camera module 1 is inserted into a supply channel 110, as shown in Fig. 2 in a sectional view perpendicular to the supply channel 110, in Fig. 4 in a sectional view along the supply channel 110 and in Fig. 3 is shown as an example in a top view of the supply channel 110.

[0055] The supply channel 110 has channel walls 112 extending in a longitudinal direction L110, which define a channel interior I110 and a longitudinal channel opening or recess 111 extending in the longitudinal direction L110. As in Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows the camera module 1 with the support part 20 attached in the longitudinal recess 111, e.g. by means of the fastening structures 20A formed on the support part 20.

[0056] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5 as an example, additional functional modules can be arranged in the supply channel 110, in particular so-called PSUs 150 and dummy modules 151. The PSUs 150 can, for example, include so-called air showers, i.e., air outlets of an air conditioning system, reading lamps, indicator lights, or other functional units 150A, which are located in Fig. 3 are represented symbolically as circles. The blind modules 151 can essentially be plate-shaped covers which are attached as a cover in the longitudinal recess 111 of the supply channel 110. In Fig. Figure 3 shows, by way of example, a camera module 1 and several PSUs 150 and dummy modules 151. Of course, several camera modules 1 can also be provided in the supply channel 110.

[0057] Fig. Figure 4 shows an example of a functional architecture of System 100. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the system 100 comprises one or more camera modules 1 and an image display unit 120. Fig. For the sake of clarity, the supply channel 110 and the cover device 2 of the camera module 1 have been omitted.

[0058] The image display unit 120 can be implemented in particular as a portable personal electronic device, for example as a tablet PC, as is the case in Fig. Figure 4 is shown schematically. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to provide a stationary display as the image display unit 120. For example, in an aircraft 200, the display can be mounted on an onboard monument and optionally be formed by a so-called flight attendant panel. From the flight attendant panel, for example as part of the Cabin Management System (CMS), various cabin functions, such as the functional units 150A of the PSUs 151, can be controlled. In general, the image display unit 120 is configured for displaying graphic representations and can, in particular, have a display 121, such as an LED, OLED, TFT, or LCD screen, or the like, with or without backlighting. The image display unit 120 can have a data interface 122, which is configured for wired or wireless data transmission.For example, the data interface 121 of the image display device 120 can be implemented as a WLAN or Bluetooth interface.

[0059] As in Fig. In Figure 4, each camera unit of the camera modules 1 is symbolically connected to an electrical voltage source S via its respective supply connection 33A, e.g., via lines running in the supply channel 110 (not shown). The camera modules 1 are each connected via the data interface 33 to a data network 130 and via this to the image display unit 120, the image display unit 120 being connected to the same data network 130 via its data interface 122.

[0060] Image data generated by the camera sensor 32 can thus be provided to the data interface 33 of the camera device 3 and distributed via the data network 130. The image display device 120 receives the image data from the data network 130 via its data interface 122 and can display a scene recorded by the camera device 3 based on the image data.

[0061] In the Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows an exemplary interior view of a passenger cabin 210 of an aircraft 200, which has the described monitoring system 100. The passenger cabin 210 is bounded by a fuselage 205 extending in a cabin longitudinal direction L210 and a cabin floor 208 extending in the cabin longitudinal direction L210. A plurality of passenger seat rows 220, each with one or more passenger seats 221 arranged side by side, are attached to the cabin floor 208. The passenger seat rows 220 are arranged one behind the other or one after the other with respect to the cabin longitudinal direction L210. As shown in Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 5, the supply channel 110 is arranged above the passenger seat rows 220 with respect to the cabin floor 208 and can, for example, be attached to the fuselage 205. The supply channel 110 extends with its longitudinal direction L110 along the cabin longitudinal direction L210, and the longitudinal recess 111 with the at least one camera module 1 attached therein is oriented towards the passenger seat rows 220 or the cabin floor 208.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, one or more on-board or cabin monuments 240, such as galleys, lavatories, or partitions, can optionally be provided in the passenger cabin 210. A flight attendant seat 230 can also be provided as an option, which serves as a safe seating option for flight attendants, particularly during takeoff and landing. As shown in Figure 6, the passenger cabin 210 can optionally include one or more cabin monuments 240, e.g., in the form of galleys, lavatories, or partitions. Fig. As shown in Figure 6 as an example, the flight attendant seat 230 can be arranged opposite the cabin monument 240. The image display unit 120 can, for example, be positioned as shown in Figure 6. Fig. 6 schematically shown, attached to the cabin monument 240, in particular detachably fastened.

[0063] As in Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 6, a surveillance video can be recorded in the passenger cabin by the camera device 3 of the camera module 1, whereby the image data generated by the camera sensor 32 is fed into the data network 130 via the data interface 33. The image display device 120 receives the image data from the data network 130 via the data interface 122 and can play back the surveillance video represented by the image data on the display 121.

[0064] Although the present invention has been explained above using exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto but can be modified in a variety of ways. In particular, combinations of the above embodiments are also conceivable. REFERENCE MARK LIST 1 camera module 2 Cover device 3 Camera setup 4 Locking device 20 Carrier part 20A Mounting structure of the support part 21 Mounting recess 22 Warehouse structure 23 Basic part 23A Plant section 23B Guide Section 24 stock items 24a Outer circumferential area of ​​the bearing piece 30 camera bodies 30A Front recess 30B Base section of the camera housing 30C Front section 31 lens 32 optical camera sensor 33 Data interface 33A supply connection 34 Evaluation unit 35 Storage section 35a External surface of the storage section 36 motion sensor 37 light bulbs 38 circuit boards 40 external threads 100 systems 110 supply channel 110A Mounting structure of the supply channel 111 Longitudinal recess 112 canal walls 120 Image display unit 121 Display 122 Data interface of the image display device 130 data network 150 PSUs 150A functional units 151 dummy modules 200 aircraft 205 hull 208 cabin floor 210 passenger cabin 220 passenger seat rows 221 passenger seats 230 flight attendant seat 240 cabin monument I30 Interior of the camera housing L110 Channel longitudinal direction L210 Cabin longitudinal direction M21 Center axis of the mounting recess S voltage source

Claims

[1] Camera module (1) for monitoring a passenger cabin (210) of an aircraft (200), comprising: a cover device (2) for fastening in a longitudinal recess (111) of a supply channel (110) with a support part (20) which has a circular fastening recess (21) and a bearing structure (22) which at least partially surrounds the fastening recess (21); a camera device (3) with a camera housing (30) having a bearing section (35) with a spherically curved outer surface (35a), and a camera unit having a lens (31) received in a front recess (30A) of the camera housing (30), an optical sensor (32) arranged in an interior space (130) of the camera housing (30) for generating image data, and a data interface (33) for transmitting the image data, wherein the camera housing (30) with the bearing section (35) is mounted in the bearing structure (22) so as to be rotatable or pivotable about at least two axes; and a locking device (4) for locking the camera housing (30) relative to the bearing structure (22); wherein the camera device (3): an evaluation unit (34) connected to the sensor (32) and the data interface (33) for evaluating the image data, wherein the evaluation unit (34) is configured to recognize predetermined image patterns in the image data and to enable the transmission of the image data through the data interface (33) only when a predetermined image pattern is recognized, or additionally comprising a motion sensor (36) for detecting movements in the field of view of the optical sensor (32) and an evaluation unit (34), wherein the motion sensor (36) is connected to the evaluation unit (34) and the evaluation unit (34) is configured to enable the transmission of the image data through the data interface (33) only when a movement is detected by the motion sensor (36); wherein the evaluation unit (34) is configured to convert the image data into image information data and to provide these, optionally instead of the image data, to the data interface, wherein the image information data contains binary status information about a status of one or more cabin components, in particular with regard to a pivot position of a storage tray arranged on a passenger seat, a closure status of a seat belt and / or an occupancy status of a passenger seat. [2] Camera module (1) according to claim 1, wherein the bearing structure (22) has a base part (23) fastened to the carrier part (20), and a bearing piece (24) guided on the base part (23) along a guide direction (F) running coaxially to a central axis (M21) of the fastening recess (21), wherein the outer surface of the bearing section (35) of the camera housing (30) bears with a first region against a contact section (23A) of the base part (23) and with a region opposite with respect to the guide direction against the bearing piece (24), and wherein the camera housing (30) is frictionally locked between the bearing piece (24) and the contact section (23A) of the base part (23) by means of the locking device (4). [3] Camera module (1) according to claim 2, wherein the locking device (4) is formed by a locking ring which pretensions the bearing piece (24) in the direction of the contact section (23A) of the base part (23) and is detachably fastened to the base part (23), in particular is screwed to it by means of an external thread (40). [4] Camera module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the data interface (33) is configured for wireless data transmission, in particular as a WIFI interface, as a Bluetooth interface or the like. [5] Camera module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the camera device (3) comprises a lighting means (37) which is arranged on a front section (30C) of the camera housing (30), in particular together with the lens (31) in the front recess (30A) of the camera housing (30). [6] Camera module (1) according to claim 5, wherein the illuminant (37) is configured to emit visible light and / or light in the infrared range. [7] System (100) for monitoring a passenger cabin (210) of an aircraft (200), comprising: a supply channel (110) extending in a channel longitudinal direction (L110) which has a longitudinal recess (111) extending in the channel longitudinal direction (L110); at least one camera module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier part (20) of the camera module (1) is fastened in the longitudinal recess (111) of the supply channel (110); and an image display device (120) which is connected to the data interface (33) of the camera device (3) via a data network (130) and is set up to reproduce image data provided by the camera device (3). [8] System (100) according to claim 7, wherein the image display device (120) is implemented as a personal electronic device, in particular as a tablet PC. [9] System (100) according to claim 7, wherein the image display device (120) is formed by a stationary display, in particular attached to an on-board monument and preferably by a flight attendant panel. [10] Aircraft (200), with: a passenger cabin (210) with a plurality of passenger seat rows (220), which are arranged one behind the other with respect to a cabin longitudinal direction (L210); and a system (100) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the supply duct (110) is arranged above the passenger seat rows (220) and extends with the duct longitudinal direction (L110) in the cabin longitudinal direction (L210). [11] Aircraft (200) according to claim 10, additionally comprising: a flight attendant seat (230) arranged in the passenger cabin (210) and a cabin monument (240) arranged opposite the flight attendant seat (230), such as an on-board galley, an on-board toilet or a partition wall, to which the image display device (120) is attached, in particular detachably attached.

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