METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY SELECTING AND ARRANGERING A MULTIPLE OF STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS IN A LIMITED SPACE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for automated selection of a plurality of structural elements for a confined space and automated arrangement of the plurality of structural elements in the confined space, a method for evaluating a process for a plurality of different configurations of a confined space, a method for manufacturing a vehicle cabin and a system for automated selection of a plurality of structural elements for a confined space and automated arrangement of the plurality of structural elements in the confined space.

[0002] To reduce the effort associated with configuring a confined space, such as an aircraft cabin, while taking into account a multitude of requirements and technical regulations, computer-assisted systems can be used that allow a user to arrange elements in the aircraft cabin. The system continuously checks whether the arrangement proposed by the user is permissible in light of the technical regulations stored in a database, for example. The user is thus informed at an early stage whether a proposed configuration of an aircraft cabin is even technically feasible. This avoids considerable effort compared to a system in which compliance with the technical regulations is only checked after the planning has been completed.

[0003] Systems and methods are also known in which the configuration of an aircraft cabin is automatically generated based on customer-specific configuration data and technical rules. For example, EP 2 960 839 A1 discloses a system and a method for automatically generating cabin layouts for aircraft cabins. A user enters customer-specific configuration data for an aircraft cabin via an input module, which, among other things, identifies specific furnishing components for the cabin and specifies the positions of the furnishing components. Furthermore, a database containing rules relating to the installation of furnishing components in the aircraft cabin is provided. A processing unit uses the customer-specific configuration data to determine a cabin layout for an aircraft cabin, taking into account the rules stored in the database.

[0004] Furthermore, EP 3 101 615 A1 discloses a system for configuring an aircraft. The system comprises an input module for entering customer-specific design or configuration data for an aircraft, as well as a database containing rules regarding the installation of components in the aircraft. A processing unit configures an aircraft based on the rules and the customer-specific design and configuration data, automatically varying the customer-specific design and configuration data to change the design or configuration of the aircraft.

[0005] DE 10 2015 117 181 A1 discloses a configurator for reconfiguring an aircraft configuration and a corresponding method. The document assumes an initial configuration of an aircraft that is to be reconfigured for different mission profiles. To reconfigure the initial configuration, a user specifies specific reconfiguration parameters for a mission profile, based on which a computing unit automatically creates alternative aircraft configurations that differ in the cabin layout. In this process, the position and / or number of components in the aircraft can be changed compared to the initial configuration.

[0006] US 8 060 345 B2 discloses a computer-implemented method for designing an interior section of an aircraft, in which objects are virtually arranged in the interior section of the aircraft. In addition to physical geometries that correspond to their actual dimensions, the objects also have non-physical geometries, also referred to as "stay-out" areas. For example, a "stay-out" area can be defined for a lavatory, into which the lavatory door opens. Additional "stay-out" areas of the lavatory are provided for the movement of passengers. Collision rules are defined for these "stay-out" spaces or areas, which can be used to decide whether two "stay-out" areas may overlap. The arrangement of the objects in the aircraft interior takes these collision rules into account.

[0007] The solutions known to date are therefore essentially based on the customer's wishes regarding the aircraft cabin equipment and attempt to fulfill these as best as possible using the available cabin equipment components and the technical limitations of the component arrangement within the cabin. These are static requirements that cannot be used to map cabin processes. In fact, the requirements for one and the same aircraft cabin change continuously during operation. For example, completely different requirements must be met during takeoff and landing than during passenger service during cruise flight.

[0008] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method and a system with which a limited space, such as an aircraft cabin, can be automatically configured, wherein the configuration takes into account not only static requirements but also dynamically changing requirements. Furthermore, it is an object to provide a method with which it can be determined whether and to what extent the same, time-changing requirements affect different aircraft cabins, which are incidentally generated on the basis of various static requirements which, in addition to the requirements already discussed, can also describe, for example, different aviation fuel loading, cargo hold loading, passenger occupancy and crew deployment. Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for producing a vehicle cabin.

[0009] The objects underlying the invention are achieved by methods according to claims 1, 12 and 13 and a system according to claim 14.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for the automated selection of a plurality of structural elements for a confined space and for the automated arrangement of the plurality of structural elements in the confined space. The structural elements are selected by an interpreter executed on a data processing device from a plurality of basic elements stored in an element database and arranged in the confined space in such a way that requirements for the confined space, which are translated into logical rules, are met. The requirements for the confined space include footprint requirements, element requirements, and position requirements. Each footprint requirement defines a position of a footprint in the confined space and a dimension of the footprint on which one or more structural elements can be positioned.Each element requirement defines at least one structural element that must be arranged in the limited space. Each position requirement restricts a position of at least one structural element in the limited space. For each basic element, at least spatial dimensions of the basic element are stored in the element database. At least one position requirement assumes different values ​​for a plurality of points in time, wherein each position requirement represents a process step of a process for one point in time of the plurality of points in time. The interpreter is designed such that for each point in time of the plurality of points in time at which the at least one position requirement assumes one of the different values, the same structural elements are selected by the interpreter from the plurality of basic elements in the element database and arranged in the limited space.

[0011] In other words, the method enables a combined and automated selection and arrangement of structural elements in a confined space. A confined space has known and limited dimensions within which the structural elements must be arranged. An example of a confined space is the passenger cabin of an aircraft, in which a large number of structural elements must be arranged. The structural elements, whose spatial and physical dimensions are also already known, can be, for example, monuments for galleys or lavatories. Other examples of structural elements are passenger seats or seats for flight attendants, but also components or equipment of the monuments such as trolleys, ovens, coffee machines, or the like. Another example of a confined space is the area of ​​an aircraft in which lines for supplying the cabin can be arranged.In this example, the structural elements include various supply and disposal lines, such as lines for the supply of electricity, data, coolant and fresh air.

[0012] The method provides for a large number of structural elements for each limited space, which can basically be arranged within the limited space. These structural elements are referred to as basic elements and are stored in a database, which can contain a wide variety of variants, modifications, or sub-forms for each structural element or object. For example, different variants of a washroom monument can be stored in the database, each having different dimensions but also different properties. Even within a variant, it is possible to choose from different sub-variants that arise from a hierarchical structure of the database. For example, for a monument for a galley, a choice can be made between variants that include storage compartments and work surfaces, or just storage compartments without work surfaces.Sub-variants can include, for example, what can be arranged in different compartments of the galley, such as ovens, storage boxes, coffee machines, refrigerators, and how the various fixtures can be operated. Another example of a variant of a monument could be the location of the access to an on-board toilet, which is reflected, for example, in the position and type of door.

[0013] In addition to the properties of the basic elements and the relationships between basic elements, the database also contains the dimensions of each basic element so that these can be taken into account when selecting and arranging the structural elements.

[0014] From this database, the method implemented on a data processing device uses an interpreter, which can also be called a reasoner, to select various structural elements, which are then arranged in the bounded space. The elements are selected and arranged in such a way that as many of the requirements placed on the bounded space as possible are met. The requirements placed on the bounded space can originate from a wide variety of areas and take a variety of forms, which are described in more detail below. However, all requirements have in common that they are first translated into logical rules and thus standardized.For example, technical and regulatory restrictions and specifications, spatial dimensions of structural elements and a customer's requirements for an aircraft cabin can be advantageously combined into a uniform set of requirements and equally taken into account when selecting and arranging the structural elements in the aircraft cabin.

[0015] The interpreter uses the requirements or set of requirements to find a solution that satisfies all or as many of the requirements as possible. Logical programming, for example, can be used for this purpose. In this case, the requirements for the bounded space represent axioms based on which an interpreter attempts to find a solution. In a preferred embodiment, answer set programming is used as a form of logical programming to select the structural elements from the element database based on the requirements and arrange them in the bounded space.

[0016] The requirements for the limited space can be divided into at least three different groups: footprint requirements, element requirements and position requirements.

[0017] Floor space arrangements concern the spatial division of the limited space into spaces on which structural elements can be arranged. The term floor space can refer to a two-dimensional area on which one or more structural elements may be arranged. However, the floor space requirement can also include a third dimension, i.e. be a spatial unit, so that the space available for structural elements is also taken into account in the third dimension. For example, the floor space of an aircraft cabin can be divided into spaces on which galleys or lavatories can be arranged, which are interrupted by aisle areas and areas for seats in which no structural elements or only seats may be arranged.The floor space requirements are therefore the actual, real dimensions of the limited space available for arranging objects.

[0018] Element requirements define structural elements that must or should be arranged within the confined space. Element requirements can be very specific, requiring a specific structural element, such as a specific washroom or galley element, or they can generally define a category of structural elements, such as a general galley, whose further properties can arise from additional requirements.

[0019] Finally, positioning requirements restrict the position of structural elements within the confined space. Positioning requirements can, for example, be specified by a customer who wants a symmetrical design of the confined space or certain elements in specific locations or at least in specific areas of a confined space. However, positioning requirements can also be specified by regulations that, for example, require flight attendant seats to be located in specific positions in an aircraft cabin. Positioning requirements can also be specified by the structural elements themselves. For example, a structural element may require a location with a certain ceiling height. Furthermore, positioning requirements can be specified by the design of the confined space.For example, structural elements that require a water connection can only be positioned where a water connection is provided. Finally, the dimensions of base elements stored in the element database are also translated into position requirements, since the position of a base element is always restricted by its dimensions to the extent that it can only be placed on surfaces that offer sufficient free space to accommodate the base element.

[0020] According to the invention, at least one position requirement assumes different values ​​for a plurality of points in time. For example, the position of a trolley that is part of an on-board galley can assume different values ​​for different points in time, since the trolley is moved through the cabin while passengers are being served. A position requirement for a foldable flight attendant seat can also assume different values ​​for different points in time, since the flight attendant seat has different dimensions in its folded state during flight or when boarding and disembarking from the aircraft than in its unfolded state during takeoff and landing.Each time-changing position requirement is a process step of a process, for example part of a catering process in which passengers are provided with meals or drinks, or part of a process that describes a position of a flight attendant in certain flight phases, such as during takeoff and landing.

[0021] The interpreter is designed to select the same structural elements from the database and arrange them in the limited space for all time points for which a value is defined for at least one position requirement. In other words, the structural elements are selected from the base elements for all time points; the arrangement of the elements can be different for each time point, provided the structural elements are flexible.

[0022] The selection and arrangement of the elements takes into account a multitude of requirements that have a variety of origins. However, since the dimensions of the limited space or the storage areas within the space, as well as the dimensions of the structural elements and the requirements for the position of the structural elements, are always taken into account, it is advantageously possible to determine the spatial arrangement of the structural elements while taking into account a multitude of requirements. By also considering temporally changing position requirements, the present method also opens up the possibility of automatically considering processes that are reflected in changes in position requirements within the limited space when arranging the structural elements.

[0023] The generated arrangement of basic elements in the limited space can, for example, be examined by a user to identify potential deficiencies. If deficiencies are identified, requirements can be modified to overcome them. The modified requirements are again translated into logical rules, and a new selection and arrangement of basic elements for the limited space is made using the interpreter to verify whether the changes are suitable for overcoming the deficiencies.

[0024] The changes can involve adapting processes. For example, the points in time for which certain position requirements were defined can be adjusted, position requirements can be defined for additional points in time, existing position requirements can be deleted, or alternative position requirements can be defined for specific points in time. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to redefine element requirements or footprint requirements in order to change the overall arrangement of the basic elements in the limited space in a forward-looking process and to review the effects of these changes on the processes.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the database can be structured in the form of an ontology, i.e., a linguistically expressed and formally ordered representation of the structural elements that is readable not only by a machine but preferably also by a human. Such an ontology can, for example, have seven ordered levels on which the structural elements are arranged. Six of the levels are used, for example, to describe the physical properties and variants of the various structural elements, while the seventh level is used to map temporal progressions of position requirements.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, after the automated selection and arrangement of the plurality of structural elements for the confined space has taken place, at least one measure is determined by means of the data processing device that is suitable for evaluating the selection and arrangement of the plurality of structural elements in the confined space. The at least one measure further preferably includes a center of gravity of the confined space.

[0027] The determination of one or more dimensions can be used to evaluate the selection and arrangement of structural elements in the limited space in various respects and can serve as a basis for optimization and further development or adaptation of requirements, which can in particular also take place automatically. For example, a dimension such as the center of gravity can be used to check the load-bearing capacity of the structure that accommodates the limited space. However, dimensions can also be determined with which the selection and arrangement of structural elements can be evaluated from an economic perspective, for example, the costs for a specific arrangement can be determined. Such dimensions are also referred to as key performance indicators (KPIs). The determined dimensions can in particular be used to identify deficiencies.

[0028] In a further preferred embodiment, the requirements for the limited space comprise operational requirements. Each operational requirement specifies the operation of at least one structural element. At least one operational requirement assumes different values ​​for a plurality of points in time. Each operational requirement represents a process step of a process for one point in time of the plurality of points in time. The interpreter is designed such that for each point in time of the plurality of points in time at which the at least one operational requirement assumes a value of the different values ​​and at which the at least one position requirement assumes one of the different values, the same structural elements are selected by the interpreter from the plurality of basic elements from the element database and arranged in the limited space.

[0029] Operating requirements can, for example, specify which functions a certain structural element or, in general, the limited space and thus, as a whole, the structural elements arranged in the space should provide. Operating requirements can also take on different values ​​for different points in time and thus represent different processes. For example, ovens can be used to heat up different meals in a galley, or storage areas can be used to store different objects over time. Another conceivable different operating requirement could be the use of a washroom as a toilet, baby changing room and shower, although it is not necessary to specifically request that a washroom provide these functions; rather, operating requirements are simply defined which ensure that the different operating modes or functions are available at different times.Functions are provided in some way within the confined space. This has the advantage that the user of the method does not have to specify the use of specific structural components; rather, the method selects suitable components based on the requirements. Thus, the configuration does not depend on the imagination and knowledge of the person configuring the space, but is implemented automatically based on what is technically feasible and within the spatial and temporal constraints.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the parking spaces are located within the outer dimensions of the confined space and are restricted by one or more restricted areas on which structural elements, passengers, crew, and other equipment may never or temporarily not be positioned. For example, restricted areas can be aisle and door areas of an aircraft cabin.

[0031] It is further preferred if at least one footprint requirement defines different dimensions of a footprint for a plurality of times, on which one or more structural elements can be positioned. For example, during takeoff and landing of an aircraft, an aisle may not be a footprint. However, during cruise flight, the aisle may be defined as a footprint, allowing it to be used for positioning trolleys.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the requirements for the confined space also include personnel requirements and activity requirements. Each personnel requirement defines the presence of at least one person in the confined space and specifies dimensions that the at least one person occupies in the confined space. Each activity requirement defines the activity of at least one person present in the confined space with respect to at least one structural element. At least one activity requirement assumes different values ​​for a plurality of points in time, wherein each activity requirement represents a process step of a process for one of the plurality of points in time.The interpreter is designed such that for each point in time of the plurality of points in time at which the at least one activity requirement assumes a value of the different values, the same structural elements are selected by the interpreter from the plurality of basic elements from the element database and arranged in the limited space.

[0033] By incorporating personnel and activity requirements, it is advantageously possible to consider the deployment of personnel and the activities of the personnel when selecting and arranging structural elements within the limited space. Since each person is assigned dimensions, it can be ensured, for example, that when performing certain processes or certain process steps, there is sufficient space for a person to carry out or monitor these process steps.

[0034] If deficiencies are identified in the determined selection and arrangement of basic elements for the limited space, these deficiencies can be addressed, for example, by adjusting personnel and activity requirements. In one exemplary embodiment, changing personnel requirements can increase or reduce the number of an aircraft cabin crew in local areas, shift tasks to other locations if the additional personnel are appropriately qualified, and define individual personnel or activity requirements for other times, delete them completely, or add new ones, to name just a few examples.

[0035] In a specific example, an operator evaluating a generated selection of basic elements in a confined space, such as an airplane cabin, might determine that during a short-haul flight, there is insufficient time to provide all passengers with meals from one trolley in a first area of ​​the cabin in front of a door, but there is more than sufficient time to provide passengers in a second area behind the same door with meals from another trolley. To remedy this deficit, seats could be moved from the first area to the second area, for example, by changing requirements.

[0036] Advantageously, defining the footprint requirements includes determining dimensions of the confined space.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the confined space is a vehicle cabin, preferably a cabin of a passenger aircraft. It is preferred if the element requirements include at least a first number of passenger seats in the vehicle cabin and a second number of cabin crew seats. The measure is a proportion of the passenger seats that are within a field of vision of cabin crew seats. In this way, compliance with the relevant regulatory requirements can be advantageously verified.

[0038] If the element requirements comprise at least a first number of passenger seats in the vehicle cabin, the requirements for the confined space in a preferred embodiment comprise passenger requirements, wherein each passenger requirement defines the presence of at least one passenger in the confined space, specifies dimensions that the at least one passenger occupies in the confined space, and defines restrictions on which passenger seats in the confined space the at least one passenger may be arranged.

[0039] Passenger requirements advantageously allow for the number and distribution of passengers in an aircraft cabin to be considered. For example, passenger distribution can affect various metrics or need to be considered when considering individual process steps. For example, the number of passengers and their distribution in the cabin affects the time required to serve meals.

[0040] In a second aspect, the problem underlying the invention is solved by a method for evaluating a process for a plurality of different configurations of a confined space, in which a set of at least partially different requirements for the same confined space is defined for each configuration of the plurality of different configurations. Each set of requirements comprises a plurality of requirements that represent the same process steps of at least one process to be evaluated.For each configuration of the confined space, an arrangement of structural elements in the confined space is determined by performing the method for automatically selecting a plurality of structural elements for a confined space and automatically arranging the plurality of structural elements in the confined space according to any of the preceding embodiments, in which at least one dimension is determined, using the set of requirements defined for the respective configuration. To evaluate the process, the at least one dimension is determined for each configuration of the confined space, wherein at least one uniform dimension is determined for all configurations of the confined space.

[0041] In other words, according to the second aspect, the method for selecting and arranging structural elements for one and the same confined space is carried out taking into account different sets of requirements. These sets of requirements can, for example, represent different uses of the same space. For example, in an aircraft cabin, a first set of requirements can describe the use of the aircraft on intra-European routes, a second set of requirements can describe the use of the aircraft on American routes between the East and West Coasts, and a third set of requirements can describe the use of the aircraft for charter operations.

[0042] However, all requirement sets have in common that they encompass at least the process steps of a process that is to be implemented in all variants. Since the same measure is determined for all sets of requirements or the subsequent configurations, the impact of new processes on a multitude of different uses of the same limited space can be advantageously tested and evaluated.

[0043] In a further aspect, the problem underlying the invention is solved by a method for producing a vehicle cabin, in which a plurality of structural elements are installed in the vehicle cabin.The method comprises the steps of detecting external dimensions of the vehicle cabin within which the plurality of structural elements must be arranged, carrying out a method according to one of the described embodiments, in which the limited space is a vehicle cabin, for determining an automated selection of the plurality of structural elements for installation in the vehicle cabin and for automatically determining the arrangement of the plurality of structural elements for installation in the vehicle cabin, wherein the footprint requirements are defined taking into account the detected external dimensions of the vehicle cabin, and installing the plurality of structural elements selected by means of the method in accordance with the arrangement determined by means of the method in the vehicle cabin.

[0044] The advantages of the vehicle cabin manufactured in this way correspond to the advantages of the process used to select and arrange the structural elements.

[0045] Finally, the problem underlying the invention is solved by a system for automatically selecting a plurality of structural elements for a confined space and for automatically arranging the plurality of structural elements in the confined space. The system comprises a data processing device and a data storage device. The system is configured to carry out a method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the element database is stored in the data storage device.

[0046] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings, which show Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a confined space with storage areas, Figure 2 shows embodiments of basic elements for a confined space, Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a confined space with structural elements arranged therein, Figure 4 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for selecting and arranging structural elements in a confined space, Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for evaluating a process for a plurality of different configurations of a confined space, Figure 6 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a vehicle cabin and Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a system for the automated selection of structural elements for a confined space and for arranging the structural elements in the confined space.

[0047] The following will first refer to the Figures 1 to 4An embodiment of a method for selecting and arranging structural elements in a limited space is described, which is carried out by means of a Figure 7 shown system 1. The system comprises a data processing device 3 in the form of a processor and a memory or data memory 5. In the present embodiment, the limited space is the cabin of a passenger aircraft, i.e. a passenger cabin of a vehicle or a vehicle cabin.

[0048] In a first step 7 of the process, the sequence of which is shown schematically in Figure 4 As shown, an element database is first provided in the data memory 5 of the system 1. The element database stores a plurality of basic elements from which various structural elements are selected and arranged in a limited space within the scope of the method.

[0049] Examples of basic elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are in Figure 2 shown. The base elements 9a and 9b are seats 9a, 9b with different dimensions, the base elements 11a and 11b are two trolleys 11a, 11b for a galley with identical dimensions but different functionality, and the base elements 13a, 13b are washrooms 13a, 13b with different dimensions and different functionality. For example, the narrower seat 9a is a seat for economy class and the wider seat 9b is a seat for business class. One of the two trolleys 11a is intended for waste, while the other trolley 11b contains drinks. The washrooms 13a, 13b differ in particular in that one washroom 13a has a regular toilet, while the other washroom 13b only has a urinal.

[0050] These basic elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are sorted by type and stored together with their functions and dimensions in the element database, which is stored in the memory 5 of the system 1.

[0051] In a second step 15, various requirements are defined that must be met by the structural elements to be arranged in the confined space. In the present exemplary embodiment, in various sub-steps 15a to 15f of the second step 15, among other things, floor space requirements (sub-step 15a), element requirements (sub-step 15b), position requirements (sub-step 15c), operational requirements (sub-step 15d), personnel requirements (sub-step 15e), and activity requirements (sub-step 15f) are defined.

[0052] When defining floor space requirements in sub-step 15a, as described below with reference to the schematic representation of an aircraft cabin 17 in Figure 1 will be explained in more detail, first the external dimensions of the limited space 17 are determined, for example measured or taken from drawings, for which structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are to be selected and in whose limited dimensions the elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b must be arranged.

[0053] In the confined space 17, the spaces 19a to 19i are subsequently defined and their dimensions determined, in which structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b may be arranged. How to Figure 1 As can be seen directly, the storage areas 19a to 19i have different dimensions. Between the storage areas 19a to 19i, there are restricted areas 21a to 21e on which no structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b may be permanently arranged.

[0054] Some footprint requirements are not permanent, but take on different values ​​at different times. For example, no structural elements may be arranged on the restricted areas 21b, 21c, and 21d during takeoff and landing. However, during cruise, structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b, such as trolleys 11a, 11b, may be temporarily arranged there. The restricted areas 21b, 21c, and 21d can therefore be defined as footprints without area for all times outside of cruise, i.e., during taxiing, takeoff, and landing. During cruise, the restricted areas 21b, 21c, and 21d are each assigned a finite dimension that can be used for the temporary arrangement of structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b.

[0055] In the second sub-step 15b, element requirements are defined that the structural elements ultimately arranged in the cabin 17 must meet. An element requirement can, for example, be the number of lavatories per seat or a specific type of galley or trolley for a galley. Element requirements always assume the same value for different points in time, since all structural elements must be arranged within the limited space at all times.

[0056] In the third sub-step 15c, position requirements for various structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are defined. A position requirement can, for example, be a symmetrical design of the cabin 17 relative to a longitudinal axis of the cabin 17, but also a specific requirement that a galley be arranged on the footprint 19e. Position requirements also include time-dependent elements. For example, for a trolley 11a, 11b, a temporal sequence of positions can be defined that the trolley 11a, 11b must assume during individual process steps of a process in which passengers are provided with a meal.

[0057] In the fourth sub-step 15d, operating requirements are defined that specify how one or more of the structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b arranged in the booth 17 after completion of the process can be operated. For example, it can be specified that it must be possible to warm rolls at a certain time, or that at least one of the washrooms must be usable as a baby changing room. These requirements can also assume different values ​​for different times.

[0058] In the fifth and sixth sub-steps (15e and 15f), personnel and activity requirements are defined. These specify, on the one hand, how many personnel must be present in the confined space and, on the other hand, which activities the personnel must perform and at what times. For example, it can be specified that a specific person must perform a specific activity at a specific time. However, it is also possible to simply specify that a specific activity must be performed at a specific time, without specifying a specific person to perform the activity.

[0059] Each person is associated with a specific dimension that that person occupies while performing certain activities, so that the space required by the staff can also be taken into account.

[0060] The first step 7 and the sub-steps 15a to 15f of the second step 15 can be carried out in any order or in parallel.

[0061] In a third step 23, all requirements are translated or implemented into logical rules to convert the arrangement problem, which must satisfy a multitude of technical and other requirements, into a logical problem. In the fourth step 25, an interpreter, which in the present embodiment is based on answer set programming, makes a selection (sub-step 25a) from the base elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b in the database, and the selected elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are arranged in the cabin 17 (sub-step 25b). Figure 4Substeps 25a and 25b are shown separately. In fact, however, they are inextricably linked, since, due to the definition of requirements as logical rules, the selection of an object is always simultaneously linked to the arrangement of the object.

[0062] The interpreter is designed in such a way that it always attempts to fulfill all requirements for different points in time, while selecting the same structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b for all points in time, but distributing them to different locations 19a to 19i if they are movable or placed in different operating states. An example of a selection of structural elements generated by the method and their arrangement in a cabin 27 is shown in Figure 3 shown. As an example, a trolley 29 is shown, showing how it is arranged at different times at different locations in the cabin 27.

[0063] The process thus advantageously enables the automatic selection and arrangement of elements within a vehicle cabin based on a wide range of requirements. This not only takes into account the customer's structural requirements and wishes, but also allows for the mapping of processes to be directly incorporated into the cabin planning.

[0064] In a final step, in the present exemplary embodiment, two measures are determined for the found cabin arrangement, which can be used to evaluate the cabin arrangement. For example, in a first sub-step 31a, the center of gravity of the found cabin arrangement can be calculated. The position of the center of gravity of the cabin can provide information about the aircraft's flight behavior. This measure is particularly suitable for drawing conclusions about the advantages and disadvantages of certain cabin arrangements, comparing different cabin arrangements with one another, and making improvements to the cabin arrangements by automatically or manually adapting requirements and calculating new cabin arrangements.

[0065] As a second measure, for example, the percentage of passengers visible from flight attendant seats during takeoff and landing can be calculated. This allows for immediate verification of whether certain regulatory requirements are being met.

[0066] In Figure 5 A flow diagram of a method for evaluating a process for a plurality of different configurations of a confined space, an aircraft cabin, is shown schematically. In a first step 33, a set of different requirements is created for each cabin configuration, which are intended to apply to the same cabin. However, each set of requirements contains the same process steps of the process to be evaluated, for example, a catering process in which a trolley is pushed through a cabin.

[0067] In a second step 35, for each configuration, i.e. each set of requirements, an arrangement of structural elements in the cabin, i.e. a cabin arrangement, is determined by using the respective set of requirements, the Figures 1 to 4 Finally, to evaluate the process, in the third step 37, at least one uniform measure is determined for each cabin configuration, with which the cabin arrangements can be evaluated. For example, measures such as the cost of a cabin arrangement can be determined for this purpose. However, it is also possible, for example, to determine the time required to carry out the process to be evaluated.

[0068] This advantageous method allows for the direct determination of the impact of new processes on different cabin configurations, without the need for complex manual planning. Therefore, the feasibility of a process can be verified at an early stage of development and at low cost.

[0069] Finally, Figure 6 a flow diagram of a method for producing an aircraft cabin 17, 27, in which a plurality of structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are installed in the aircraft cabin 17, 27. In a first step 39, external dimensions of the vehicle cabin 17, 27 are recorded, within which the plurality of structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b can be arranged. Thereafter, in a second step 41, the Figures 1 to 4explained method is carried out for the cabin 17, 27. In this case, structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are automatically selected for installation in the cabin 17, 27 and the data processing device 3 determines where the selected structural elements are to be installed in the cabin 17, 27. At least the footprint requirements are defined taking into account the recorded external dimensions of the cabin 17, 27. In a final third step 43, the selected structural elements 9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b are arranged in the cabin 17, 27 according to the arrangement determined by the method and the cabin 17, 27 is thus manufactured.

[0070] This advantageously makes it possible to produce a cabin 17, 27 with an arrangement of structural elements that has been automatically determined taking into account a large number of time-changing requirements.

Claims

1. Method for automatically selecting a plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) for a limited space and automatically arranging the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) in the limited space, wherein the structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) are selected from a multiplicity of basic elements stored in an element database by an interpreter executed on a data processing device (3) and are arranged in the limited space (17) in such a way that requirements for the limited space (17) that have been converted into logical rules are met, wherein the requirements for the limited space (17) comprise footprint requirements (15a), element requirements (15b) and position requirements (15c), wherein each footprint requirement (15a) defines a position of a footprint (19a-19i) in the limited space (17) and a dimension of the footprint (19a-19i) on which one or more structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) can be positioned, wherein each element requirement (15b) defines at least one structural element (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) which must be arranged in the limited space (17), and wherein each position requirement (15c) restricts a position of at least one structural element (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) in the limited space (17), and wherein at least spatial dimensions of the basic element are stored for each basic element in the element database, characterized in that at least one position requirement (15c) assumes different values for a plurality of times, wherein each position requirement (15c) for a time of the plurality of times represents a process step of a process, and in that the interpreter is configured such that, for each time of the plurality of times at which the at least one position requirement (15c) assumes one of the different values, the same structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) are selected from the multiplicity of basic elements from the element database by the interpreter and are arranged in the limited space (17).

2. Method according to Claim 1, wherein, after the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) have been automatically selected and arranged for the limited space (17), at least one measure is determined by means of the data processing device (3) and is suitable for assessing the selection and arrangement of the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) in the limited space (17).

3. Method according to Claim 2, wherein the at least one measure comprises a centroid of the limited space (17).

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the requirements for the limited space (17) further comprise operating requirements (15d), wherein each operating requirement (15d) specifies the operation of at least one structural element (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b), wherein at least one operating requirement (15d) assumes different values for a plurality of times, wherein each operating requirement (15d) for a time of the plurality of times represents a process step of a process, and wherein the interpreter is configured such that, for each time of the plurality of times at which the at least one operating requirement (15d) assumes a value of the different values and at which the at least one position requirement (15c) assumes one of the different values, the same structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) are also selected from the multiplicity of basic elements from the element database by the interpreter and are arranged in the limited space (17).

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the footprints (19a-i) lie within outer dimensions of the limited space (17) and are restricted by one or more blocked areas (21a-e), on which no structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) can be positioned.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one footprint requirement (15a) for a plurality of times defines different dimensions of a footprint (19a-i), on which one or more structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) can be positioned.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the requirements for the limited space (17) comprise personnel requirements (15e) and activity requirements (15f), wherein each personnel requirement (15e) defines the presence of at least one person in the limited space (17) and specifies dimensions that are occupied by the at least one person in the limited space (17), wherein each activity requirement (15f) defines the activity of at least one person present in the limited space (17) with respect to at least one structural element (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b), wherein at least one activity requirement (15f) assumes different values for a plurality of times, wherein each activity requirement (15f) for a time of the plurality of times represents a process step of a process, and wherein the interpreter is configured such that, for each time of the plurality of times at which the at least one activity requirement (15f) assumes a value of the different values, the same structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) are also selected from the multiplicity of basic elements from the element database by the interpreter and are arranged in the limited space (17).

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein defining the footprint requirements (15a) comprises determining dimensions of the limited space (17).

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the limited space (17) is a vehicle cabin, preferably a cabin (27) of a passenger aircraft.

10. Method according to Claims 2 and 9, wherein the element requirements (15b) comprise at least a first number of passenger seats in the vehicle cabin and a second number of cabin personnel seats, and wherein the measure is a proportion of the passenger seats within a field of view of cabin personnel seats.

11. Method according to Claim 9 or 10, wherein the element requirements (15b) comprise at least a first number of passenger seats in the vehicle cabin and the requirements for the limited space (17) comprise passenger requirements, wherein each passenger requirement defines the presence of at least one passenger in the limited space (17), specifies dimensions that are occupied by the at least one passenger in the limited space (17), and defines restrictions as regards the passenger seats in the limited space (17) on which the at least one passenger may be arranged.

12. Method for evaluating a process for a plurality of different configurations of a limited space (17), in which, for each configuration of the plurality of different configurations, a set of at least partially different requirements is defined for the same limited space (17), wherein each set of requirements comprises a plurality of requirements representing the same process steps of at least one process to be evaluated, wherein, for each configuration of the limited space (17), an arrangement of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) in the limited space (17) is determined by carrying out the method for automatically selecting a plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) for a limited space (17) and automatically arranging the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) in the limited space (17) according to one of Claims 2 to 10, if dependent on Claim 2, using the set of requirements defined for the respective configuration, and wherein, in order to evaluate the process for each configuration of the limited space (17), the at least one measure is determined, wherein at least one consistent measure is determined for all configurations of the limited space (17).

13. Method for producing a vehicle cabin, in which a plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) are installed in the vehicle cabin, wherein the method comprises the following steps: detecting outer dimensions of the vehicle cabin, within which the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) must be arranged, carrying out a method according to Claim 9 or 10 for determining an automated selection of the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) for installation in the vehicle cabin and for automatically determining the arrangement of the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) for installation in the vehicle cabin, wherein the footprint requirements (15a) are defined taking into account the detected outer dimensions of the vehicle cabin, and installing the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) selected by means of the method according to Claim 9 or 10 according to the arrangement in the vehicle cabin determined by means of the method according to Claim 9 or 10.

14. System for automatically selecting a plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) for a limited space (17) and automatically arranging the plurality of structural elements (9a, 9b, 11a, 11b, 13a, 13b) in the limited space (17), wherein the system (1) comprises a data processing device (3) and a data memory (5), wherein the system is configured to carry out a method according to one of Claims 1 to 10, wherein the element database is stored in the data memory (5).