AIRCRAFT SEAT UNIT ARRANGEMENT AND CABIN FEATURING SUCH A SEAT UNIT ARRANGEMENT

Abstract

The invention relates to a group of seating units (10) comprising: a first seating unit 11.1 comprising a first seat (12.1) including at least a first seat cushion (13.1) and a first backrest (14.1), a second seating unit (11.2) comprising a second seat (12.2) including at least a second seat cushion (13.2) and a second backrest (14.2), the first seating unit (11.1) and the second seating unit (11.2) being arranged side by side and facing the same direction, and the first seating unit (11.1) and the second seating unit (11.2) being offset longitudinally forward relative to each other. Figure for the abstract: Figure 1a

Description

Title of the invention: AIRCRAFT SEAT UNIT ARRANGEMENT AND CABIN COMPRISING SUCH A SEAT UNIT ARRANGEMENT

[0001] The present invention relates to a passenger seating arrangement. The invention finds a particularly advantageous, but not exclusive, application in aircraft cabins, especially premium economy class cabins.

[0002] Given the relatively small space inside aircraft cabins, airlines seek to optimize the use of such space in order to maximize the cabin occupancy density.

[0003] Moreover, as the distances of direct flights increase, passengers want more comfort and more privacy.

[0004] There is therefore a need for an intermediate seating arrangement between - on the one hand, aircraft cabin configurations including “economy class” type seats with high filling density but which are not very comfortable and - on the other hand, aircraft cabin configurations including "business class" type seats offering passengers different comfort positions, from sitting to a lying position, but very bulky.

[0005] For this purpose, the invention relates to a group of seating units comprising a first seating unit comprising a first seat, comprising at least a first seat and a first backrest, and a second seating unit comprising a second seat, comprising at least a second seat and a second backrest. More specifically, the first seating unit and the second seating unit are arranged side by side and facing in the same direction and are longitudinally offset forwards relative to each other.

[0006] The invention thus proposes a new configuration of seat arrangement which, thanks to the longitudinal offset between the seat units, makes it possible to improve passenger comfort while providing a high filling density of the aircraft cabin.

[0007] The first seat is capable of being movable between a sitting position and a comfort position in which the first backrest is tilted backward. Similarly, the second seat is capable of being movable between a sitting position and a comfort position in which the second backrest is tilted backward. Furthermore, the group of seating units according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken individually or in combination, according to which: the first seat extends along an axis of extension; the second seat extends along an axis of extension; the extension axis of the first seat and the extension axis of the second seat are parallel to each other or form a non-zero angle with respect to each other and / or with respect to a reference longitudinal direction; the first seat unit comprises a first tray table, movable between a stored position and a deployed position; the second seat unit comprises a second tray table, movable between a stored position and a deployed position; the first shelf and the second shelf are offset longitudinally relative to each other, in particular along a longitudinal extension direction of the central console, when the first shelf and the second shelf are in the deployed position; the seat unit group comprises a center console arranged between the first seat and the second seat; the central console comprises a first storage housing, intended to receive the first tablet in the stored position, and a second storage housing, intended to receive the second tablet in the stored position; the group of seating units, in particular the center console, may comprise a storage space, in particular located at the rear of the center console, in particular facing the rear of the group of seating units, so as to be usable by passengers located behind the group of seating units; a first portion of the storage space faces the passenger located behind the first seat unit and a second portion of the storage space faces the passenger located behind the second seat unit; the first part of the storage space and the second part of the storage space are vertically superimposed on each other; the group of seat units comprises at least one side armrest arranged along one side of one of the seats, the side armrest is movable between a "raised" position, in which the side armrest is located above the seat and a “lowered” position, in which the side armrest is located at or below the seat, such a mobile configuration of the side armrest making it easier to install a person with reduced mobility; The group of seating units includes: at least one central partition, in particular movable between a stored position and a deployed position, arranged between the first seat and the second seat, and / or at least one upper partition, in particular movable between a "lowered" position, in which an upper edge of the upper partition is located at an upper edge of the backrest and a “raised” position, in which the upper edge of the upper partition is above the upper edge of the backrest; the first seat unit comprises a first privacy shell at least partially surrounding the first seat and mechanically linked with the first backrest so as to move with the first backrest when the first seat moves from a seated position to a comfort position, in which the first backrest is tilted rearwardly; the second seat unit comprises a second privacy shell at least partially surrounding the second seat and mechanically linked with the second backrest so as to move with the second backrest when the second seat moves from a seated position to a comfort position, in which the second backrest is tilted rearwardly; a first screen is fixed on a rear face of the first privacy shell by means of a first hinge with a horizontal axis; a second screen is fixed on a rear face of the second privacy shell by means of a second hinge with a horizontal axis; the first privacy shell is a fixed shell delimiting a first space in which the first seat moves from the sitting position to the comfort position independently of the first privacy shell; and / or the second privacy shell is a fixed shell delimiting a second space in which the second seat moves from the sitting position to the comfort position independently of the second privacy shell.

[0008] Furthermore, the invention also relates to an aircraft cabin comprising: a first lateral wall and a second lateral wall extending along a longitudinal axis, the first lateral wall and the second lateral wall being separated from each other along a transverse axis, and an arrangement of seating units comprising at least: a first lateral column of at least one group of seating units according to the invention, and a second side column of at least one group of seating units according to the invention.

[0009] More specifically, the group of seating units in the first side column comprises one seating unit arranged on the side of a circulation aisle and one seating unit arranged on the side of the first side wall, and the group of seating units in the second side column comprises a seat unit arranged on the side of a circulation aisle and a seat unit arranged on the side of the second side wall.

[0010] Furthermore, the aircraft cabin according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics taken individually or in combination, according to which: the seat unit arranged on the side wall side is longitudinally offset forward relative to the seat unit arranged on the side of the circulation aisle; the seat unit arranged on the side of the traffic aisle is longitudinally offset forwards relative to the seat unit arranged on the side wall side; the aircraft cabin further comprises a central assembly comprising at least a third column of at least one group of seat units according to the invention; the third column is separated from the first side column and / or the second side column by at least one traffic lane; the central assembly comprises at least a fourth column of at least one group of seating units according to the invention; the third column and the fourth column are arranged next to each other; the third column seating unit group and the fourth column seating unit group comprise a seating unit located on the side of a circulation aisle and a seating unit located on the side of a center of the central assembly; the central seating units of the third column and the fourth column are offset longitudinally forward relative to the seating units located on the circulation aisle side of the third column and the fourth column; and / or the seating units located on the aisle side of the third column and the fourth column are offset longitudinally forward relative to the central seating units of the third column and the fourth column.

[0011] The present invention will be better understood and other characteristics and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description which follows, comprising embodiments given by way of illustration with reference to the appended figures, presented as non-limiting examples, which may serve to complete the understanding of the present invention and the description of its embodiment and, where appropriate, contribute to its definition, in which: [Fig.la][Fig.lb][Fig.lc][Fig.ld] Figures 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d are respectively front perspective, rear perspective, top and side views of a first embodiment of a group of seating units according to the invention; [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a schematic side view illustrating an inclination of a backrest and a seat of a seat in a comfortable position; [Fig.3a][Fig.3b][Fig.3c][Fig.3d] Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d are respectively front perspective, rear perspective, top and side views of a second embodiment of a group of seating units according to the invention; [Fig.4a][Fig.4b][Fig.4c][Fig.4d] Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d are respectively front perspective, rear perspective, top and side views of a third embodiment of a group of seating units according to the invention; and [Fig.5a][Fig.5b][Fig.5c] Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c are top views of an aircraft cabin comprising different types of aircraft seating arrangements obtainable with the groups of seating units according to the invention.

[0012] It should be noted that, in the figures, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different embodiments may have the same references. Thus, unless otherwise stated, such elements have identical structural, dimensional and / or material properties.

[0013] The relative terms of the type "front", "rear", "lower", "upper", "vertical" or "horizontal" are understood by reference to the common meaning that a passenger installed on one of the seats of the group of seat units according to the invention would give them.

[0014] Figures 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d are respectively front perspective, rear perspective, top and side views of a first embodiment of a group of seating units 10 according to the invention.

[0015] More particularly, the group of seat units 10 comprises a first seat unit 11.1 and a second seat unit 11.2.

[0016] The first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2 are facing in the same direction. The first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2 are arranged side by side with respect to each other.

[0017] In particular, the first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2 are separated by a small space, in particular only allowing positioning of a central console 28, described in more detail below, between the first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2.

[0018] More specifically, the first seat unit 11.1 comprises a first seat 12.1 provided with a first seat 13.1 and a first backrest 14.1, in particular adjustable in inclination, as well as a first privacy shell 15.1 at least partially surrounding the first seat 12.1. Such a first privacy shell 15.1 thus makes it possible to guarantee the privacy of a passenger seated on the first seat 12.1.

[0019] The first seat 12.1 is notably movable between a "seated" position, corresponding to a position used particularly during the aircraft's stopping, taxiing, takeoff, and landing phases, and a “comfort” position, notably presented in [Fig.2], as a schematic side representation illustrating an inclination of the first seat 13.1 and the first backrest 14.1 of the first seat 12.1.

[0020] In the “comfort” position, the first backrest 14.1 is inclined backwards. The first backrest 14.1 can then form an angle A1, in particular between 10 degrees and 35 degrees relative to a vertical direction DV.

[0021] If necessary, in the “comfort” position, the first seat 13.1 can be raised upwards. The first seat 13.1 can then form an angle A2, in particular between 5 degrees and 20 degrees, relative to a horizontal direction DH.

[0022] Preferably, the inclination of the first backrest 14.1 and / or of the first seat 13.1 is such that in the “comfort” position, the knees of the passenger seated on the first seat 12.1 are located above his pelvis.

[0023] Alternatively, the first seat 13.1 is fixed.

[0024] The “comfort” position is a limit position of the first seat 12.1, that is to say that the first backrest 14.1 cannot tilt beyond the angle A1 that the first backrest 14.1 forms relative to the vertical direction DV in the “comfort” position. Consequently, the first seat 12.1 does not have a bed position.

[0025] The first seat 12.1 may include a first leg rest 16.1, in particular movable between a resting position, in which the first leg rest 16.1 forms an angle of zero or close to 0 degrees with respect to the vertical direction DV, and a deployed position, in which the first leg rest 16.1 forms an angle A3, in particular between 50 degrees and 60 degrees, relative to the vertical direction DV.

[0026] The first seat unit 11.1 may also comprise a first footrest 18.1, intended to support the feet of a passenger seated on a rear seat located behind the first seat unit 11.1, as shown in [Fig. 1b]. The first footrest 18.1 may be retractable or be fixed.

[0027] Furthermore, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 1e], the first privacy shell 15.1 may comprise a rear wall 20, located behind the first backrest 14.1. In addition, the first privacy shell 15.1 may also comprise two side walls 21, 22 located on either side of the first backrest 14.1. The side walls 21, 22 extend forward from the rear wall 20.

[0028] In such a configuration, the first privacy shell 15.1 has a U-shaped section.

[0029] The first privacy shell 15.1 can be mechanically linked with the first backrest 14.1 so as to move with the first backrest 14.1, when the first seat 12.1 is movable, in particular between the “seated” position and the “comfort” position.

[0030] The first seat unit 11.1 may comprise a first screen 24.1 fixed to a rear face of the first privacy shell 15.1. In particular, the first screen 24.1 is connected to the first privacy shell 15.1 via a first hinge 25.1, extending in particular along a horizontal axis XO, as shown in [Fig.lb]. The first hinge 25.1 may be arranged along an upper edge of the first screen 24.1. This makes it possible to tilt the first screen 34.1 rearwardly relative to the first backrest 14.1 so as to maintain the first screen 24.1 in the viewing direction of a passenger seated on the rear seat, when the first seat 12.1 moves from the “seated” position to the “comfort” position.

[0031] Alternatively, the first privacy shell 15.1 is a fixed shell delimiting a first space in which the first seat 12.1 moves from the "seated" position to the "comfort" position independently of the first privacy shell 15.1.

[0032] Similarly, the second seat unit 11.2 comprises a second seat 12.2 provided with a second seat 13.2 and a second backrest 14.2, in particular adjustable in inclination, as well as a second privacy shell 15.2 at least partially surrounding the second seat 12.2. Such a second privacy shell 15.2 thus makes it possible to guarantee the privacy of a passenger seated on the second seat 12.2.

[0033] The second seat 12.2 is notably movable between a “sitting” position, corresponding to a position used in particular during the stopping, taxiing, takeoff and landing phases of the aircraft, and a “comfort” position notably presented in [Fig.2].

[0034] In the “comfort” position, the second backrest 14.2 is inclined backwards. The second backrest 14.2 can then form an angle A1, in particular between 10 degrees and 35 degrees relative to a vertical direction DV.

[0035] If necessary, in the “comfort” position, the second seat 13.2 can be raised upwards. The second seat 13.2 can then form an angle A2, in particular between 5 degrees and 20 degrees relative to a horizontal direction DH.

[0036] Preferably, the inclination of the second backrest 14.2 and / or of the second seat 13.2 is such that in the “comfort” position, the knees of the passenger seated on the second seat 12.2 are located above his pelvis.

[0037] Alternatively, the second seat 13.2 is fixed.

[0038] The “comfort” position is a limit position of the second seat 12.2, that is to say that the second backrest 14.2 cannot tilt beyond the angle A1 that the second backrest 14.2 forms with respect to the vertical direction DV in the “comfort” position. Consequently, the second seat 12.2 does not have a bed position.

[0039] The second seat 12.2 may include a second leg rest 16.2, in particular movable between a resting position, in which the second leg rest 16.2 forms an angle of zero or close to 0 degrees with respect to the vertical direction DV, and a deployed position, in which the second leg rest 16.2 forms an angle A3, in particular between 50 degrees and 60 degrees, relative to the vertical direction DV.

[0040] The second seat unit 11.2 may also include a second footrest 18.2 for supporting the feet of a passenger seated on a rear seat located behind the second seat unit 11.2, as shown in [Fig.lb]. The second footrest 18.2 may be retractable or fixed.

[0041] Furthermore, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 1e], the second privacy shell 15.2 may comprise a rear wall 20, located behind the second backrest 14.2. In addition, the second privacy shell 15.2 may also comprise two side walls 21, 22 located on either side of the second backrest 14.2. The side walls 21, 22 extend forward from the rear wall 20.

[0042] In such a configuration, the second privacy shell 15.2 has a U-shaped cross-section.

[0043] The second privacy shell 15.2 is mechanically linked with the second backrest 14.2 so as to move with the second backrest 14.2 when the second seat 12.2 is movable, in particular between the “seated” position and the “comfort” position.

[0044] The second seat unit 11.2 may include a second screen 24.2 fixed to a rear face of the second privacy shell 15.2. In particular, the second screen 24.2 is connected to the second privacy shell 15.2 by means of a second hinge 25.2, extending notably along a horizontal axis X0', as shown in [Fig. 1b]. The second hinge 25.2 may be arranged along an upper edge of the second screen 24.2. This allows the second screen 24.2 to be tilted backward relative to the second backrest 14.2 so as to keep the second screen 24.2 in the viewing direction of a passenger seated in the rear seat, when the second seat 12.2 moves from the "seated" position to the "comfort" position.

[0045] Alternatively, the second privacy shell 15.2 is a fixed shell delimiting a second space in which the second seat 12.2 moves from the “seated” position to the “comfort” position independently of the second privacy shell 15.2.

[0046] Furthermore, the first privacy shell 15.1 and the second privacy shell 15.2 may be elements distinct from one another.

[0047] Alternatively, as described in more detail below, the first privacy shell 15.1 and the second privacy shell 15.2 may form a single piece.

[0048] As illustrated in [Fig. 1e], the first seat 12.1 extends along an extension axis XI corresponding to a horizontal axis located in a median vertical plane of the first seat 12.1, and The second seat 12.2 extends along an extension axis X2 corresponding to a horizontal axis located in a median vertical plane of the second seat 12.2.

[0049] According to a particular embodiment, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 are parallel to each other. Thus, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 then form the same angle with respect to a reference longitudinal direction Dref, corresponding for example to a longitudinal axis X of an aircraft cabin.

[0050] The angle between the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1, respectively the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2, and the longitudinal reference direction Dref may be zero. In this case, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 are parallel to the longitudinal reference direction Dref.

[0051] Alternatively, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1, respectively the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2, forms a non-zero angle with respect to the reference longitudinal direction Dref.

[0052] Variants of orientation of the first seat 12.1, respectively of the second seat 12.2, are described below with reference to figures 4a to 4d.

[0053] The first seat unit 11.1 is longitudinally offset forward relative to the second seat unit 11.2 by a first longitudinal offset LL

[0054] The first longitudinal offset L1 of the first seat unit 11.1 relative to the second seat unit 11.2 may be between 2 inches (or 5.1 cm) and 15 inches (or 38.1 cm).

[0055] The longitudinal offset L1 is carried out along the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1, respectively the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2.

[0056] According to such a configuration, the longitudinal overlap between the first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2 is therefore partial.

[0057] Furthermore, the first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2 are located vertically at the same level.

[0058] As can be seen in figures 1a to 1c, a central console 28 is arranged between the first seat 12.1 and the second seat 12.2.

[0059] Due to the longitudinal offset between the first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2, the central console 28 can extend longitudinally between a front edge of the first seat unit 11.1, in particular the most forward, in particular at the front end of the seat, to a rear edge of the second seat unit 11.2, in particular the most rearward, in particular at the rear face of the second privacy shell 15.2.

[0060] Such an arrangement makes it possible to increase a dimension of the central console 28.

[0061] The central console 28 may comprise a first portion 28.1, in particular of parallelepiped shape, arranged between the first seat 12.1 and the second seat. 12.2. The first portion 28.1 may include an upper face forming a central armrest between the first seat 12.1 and the second seat 12.2.

[0062] The central console 28 may also comprise a second portion 28.2, in particular of generally parallelepipedal shape, in particular located at the rear of the first portion 28.1. The second portion 28.2 may have a height greater than a height of the first portion 28.1. Thus arranged, in side view, the central console 28 has an L-shape.

[0063] In particular, the central console 28 is capable of comprising a storage space 29, in particular located at the rear of the central console 28. According to this specific configuration, the storage space 29 faces towards the rear of the group of seat units 10 so as to be able to be used by passengers located behind the group of seat units 10.

[0064] The storage space 29 is notably produced in the second portion 28.2 of the central console 28.

[0065] The storage space 29 may include a bottle holder, a magazine holder, a laptop holder, a box, a shelf and / or any other element allowing the passenger to store an object during a flight.

[0066] A first portion 29.1 of the storage space 29 can be turned towards a passenger located behind the first seat unit 11.1 and a second portion 29.2 of the storage space 29 can be turned towards a passenger located behind the second seat unit 11.2.

[0067] In particular, the first part 29.1 and the second part 29.2 of the storage space 29 are vertically superimposed on each other.

[0068] Furthermore, the first seat unit 11.1 may comprise a first shelf 31.1, in particular movable between a stored position and a deployed position, in which the first shelf 31.1 is capable of extending in a horizontal plane.

[0069] In addition, the second seat unit 11.2 may comprise a second shelf 31.2, in particular movable between a stored position and a deployed position, in which the second shelf 31.2 is capable of extending in a horizontal plane.

[0070] According to the exemplary embodiment described, the central console 28 comprises a first storage housing 32.1, intended to receive the first tablet 31.1 in the stored position, and a second storage housing 32.2, intended to receive the second tablet 31.2 in the stored position.

[0071] In the stored position, the first shelf 31.1 and the second shelf 31.2 preferably extend in a vertical plane, respectively in the first storage housing 32.1 and in the second storage housing 32.2.

[0072] Advantageously, as can be seen in particular in [Fig.1a], when the first shelf 31.1 and the second shelf 31.2 are in the deployed position, the first shelf 31.1 and the second shelf 31.2 are longitudinally offset by a second longitudinal offset L2 relative to each other in a longitudinal extension direction of the central console 28, which may be similar to the reference longitudinal direction Dref.

[0073] Advantageously, the second longitudinal offset L2 between the first shelf 31.1 and the second shelf 31.2 is identical to the first longitudinal offset L1 between the first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2.

[0074] Thus, the second longitudinal offset L2 makes it possible to guarantee that the relative position of the first shelf 31.1 with respect to the first seat 12.1 is the same for the second shelf 31.2 with respect to the second seat 12.2.

[0075] Specifically, the first storage compartment 32.1 and the second storage compartment 32.2 are made in the first portion 28.1 of the central console 28.

[0076] Furthermore, a central partition 35 may be arranged between the first seat 12.1 and the second seat 12.2. In side view, the central partition 35 extends forward relative to the first backrest 14.1 of the first seat 12.1 and to the second backrest 14.2 of the second seat 12.2 as shown in [Fig.1d]. The central partition 35 preferably extends vertically in a plane parallel to at least the extension axis X1 of the first seat 12.1 and / or the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2.

[0077] The central partition 35 may be fixed. Alternatively, the central partition 35 may be movable between a stored position and a deployed position. The transition from the stored position to the deployed position, and vice versa, may be effected by a displacement of the central partition 35 in translation, in rotation or by a combined translation and rotation displacement.

[0078] As can be seen in [Fig.1a], at least one first side armrest 36.1 is arranged along one side of the first seat 12.1 and / or at least one second side armrest 36.2 is arranged along one side of the second seat 12.2. Advantageously, the first side armrest 36.1 and the second side armrest 36.2 are arranged on either side of the group of seat units 10 comprising the first seat 12.1 and the second seat 12.2.

[0079] The first side armrest 36.1, respectively the second side armrest 36.2, in particular the one located on the side of an aircraft aisle, can be movable between a "raised" position, in which the first side armrest 36.1, respectively the second side armrest 36.2, is located above the first seat 13.1 of the first seat 12.1, respectively the second seat 13.2 of the second seat 12.2, and a "lowered" position, in which the first side armrest 36.1, respec- tively the second side armrest 36.2, is located at the level of the first seating 13.1 of the first seat 12.1, respectively the second seating 13.2 of the second seat 12.2, or below the first seat 13.1 of the first seat 12.1, respectively the second seat 13.2 of the second seat 12.2, in particular to facilitate the installation of a person with reduced mobility.

[0080] Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d are respectively front perspective, rear perspective, top and side views of a second embodiment of the group of seating units 10 according to the invention.

[0081] More particularly, in the second embodiment presented, the second seat unit 11.2 can be longitudinally offset forward relative to the first seat unit 11.1.

[0082] Furthermore, as can be seen in [Fig.3b], without being specific to the second embodiment, the first shelf 31.1 may be arranged on a rear face of the first privacy shell 15.1. Similarly, the second shelf 31.2 may be arranged on a rear face of the second privacy shell 15.2.

[0083] Furthermore, without being specific to the second embodiment, the first privacy shell 15.1 and the second privacy shell 15.2 can be connected to each other, so as to form a single-piece part, as can be seen in [Fig.3c].

[0084] Thus, the one-piece unit, consisting of the first privacy shell 15.1 and the second privacy shell 15.2, comprises a rear wall 39 and two side walls 41, 42, located on either side of the group of seating units 10 comprising the first seat 12.1 and the second seat 12.2. The side walls 41, 42 extend forward relative to the rear wall 39.

[0085] The rear wall 39 comprises a first portion 39.1, located behind the first seat 12.1 and a second portion 39.2 located behind the second seat 12.2. The first portion 39.1 and the second portion 39.2 are connected to each other by means of a connecting portion 39.3. In top view the connecting portion 39.3 forms an angle other than zero degrees with respect to the first portion 39.1 and the second portion 39.2.

[0086] Thus configured, the first portion 39.1 of the rear wall 39 forms the first privacy shell 15.1 and the second portion 39.2 of the rear wall 39 forms the second privacy shell 15.2.

[0087] Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d are respectively front perspective, rear perspective, top and side views of a third embodiment of the group of seating units 10 according to the invention.

[0088] More particularly, in the third embodiment presented, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 are parallel to each other and respectively form a non-zero relative to the reference longitudinal direction Dref, such as the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft.

[0089] As can be seen in [Fig.4c], the angle A4 of the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 relative to the reference longitudinal direction Dref is, for example, between 2 and 15 degrees.

[0090] Alternatively, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 form a non-zero angle with respect to each other, in particular between 5 and 15 degrees.

[0091] In addition, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 may form a non-zero angle relative to the reference longitudinal direction Dref, such as the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft. In addition or alternatively, the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 may form a non-zero angle relative to the reference longitudinal direction Dref, such as the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft.

[0092] In other words, the extension axis XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 form different angles relative to the reference longitudinal direction Dref.

[0093] In such an arrangement, the extension axes XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.2 preferably intersect towards the front of the group of seat units 10.

[0094] Alternatively, the extension axes XI of the first seat 12.1 and the extension axis X2 of the second seat 12.1 may intersect towards the rear of the group of seat units 10.

[0095] Furthermore, without being specific to the third embodiment, the group of seat units 10 comprises the central partition 35, capable of being movable between a stored position and a deployed position. In the stored position, the central partition 35 may be arranged inside a housing 45, in particular made in the central console 28, in particular in a piece of furniture located in the rear part on an upper face of the first portion 28.1 of the central console 28, as shown in [Fig.4a].

[0096] According to a particular embodiment, the housing 45 extends from a portion of the second privacy shell 15.2 of the second seat unit 11.2, located furthest to the rear.

[0097] Such a configuration makes it easier to communicate between two passengers sitting side by side in the group of seat units 10. In the deployed position, the central partition 35 extends outside the housing 45 so as to increase the privacy of the passengers sitting side by side in the group of seat units 10.

[0098] In addition, the group of seating units 10 may include an upper partition 46, visible in [Fig. 4b]. The upper partition 46 may be movable between a "lowered" position, in which an upper edge of the upper partition 46 is located at the level of an upper edge of the first backrest 14.1 of the first seat 12.1, respectively at an upper edge of the second backrest 14.2 of the second seat 12.2, and a “raised” position, in which the upper edge of the upper partition 46 is located above the upper edge of the first backrest 14.1 of the first seat 12.1, respectively an upper edge of the second backrest 14.2 of the second seat 12.2.

[0099] The upper partition 46 may comprise a portion located behind at least the first backrest 14.1, respectively the second backrest 14.2, and / or a portion extending along one side of the first backrest 14.1, respectively the second backrest 14.2. The upper partition 46 may thus have an L or U shape.

[0100] The first seat unit 11.1 and the second seat unit 11.2 of the group of seat units 10 may form a block mounted on a common support pallet intended to be fixed to the rails of the aircraft cabin by means of standard locks known to those skilled in the art.

[0101] Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c are top views of an aircraft cabin 47 having different types of aircraft seating arrangements obtainable with the groups of seating units 10 according to the invention.

[0102] More particularly, Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c show the aircraft cabin 47 extending along the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft and comprising a first side wall and a second side wall extending along the longitudinal axis X and spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis Y, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0103] The first side wall and a second side wall are arranged on either side of the aircraft cabin 47 and are arranged along a fuselage of the aircraft and capable of being equipped with portholes.

[0104] The aircraft cabin 47 comprises an arrangement of first seat units 11.1 and second seat units 11.2, in which the first seats 12.1 and the second seats 12.2 are all oriented in the same direction. In this case, the first seats 12.1 and the second seats 12.2 are all oriented towards the front of the aircraft cabin 47, i.e. towards an area comprising a cockpit of the aircraft.

[0105] In an alternative embodiment, the first seats 12.1 and the second seats 12.2 are all oriented towards the rear of the aircraft cabin 47, i.e. towards an opposite area of ​​the aircraft cockpit.

[0106] Additionally, in another alternative embodiment, the first seats 12.1 and the second seats 12.2 are all oriented in two different directions. For example, the first seats 12.1 are all oriented toward the front of the aircraft cabin 47, while the second seats 12.2 are all oriented toward the rear of the aircraft cabin 47.

[0107] The aircraft cabin 47 comprises at least a first column 50.1 of groups of seating units 10, in particular a first lateral column 50.1 of groups of seating units 10, and at least one second column 50.2 of groups of seating units 10, in particular a second lateral column 50.2 of groups of seating units 10. Within the first column 50.1, respectively the second column 50.2, the groups of seating units 10 are arranged one behind the other. The first column 50.1, respectively the second column 50.2, extends substantially along the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft.

[0108] Each group of seating units 10 of the first side column 50.1, respectively of the second side column 50.2, comprises a seating unit also called "aisle-side seating unit", arranged on the side of a circulation corridor 52. According to the exemplary embodiment presented, the aisle-side seating units are the second seating units 11.2 for the first side column 50.1 and the first seating units 11.1 for the second side column 50.2.

[0109] In addition, each group of seat units 10 of the first side column 50.1, respectively of the second side column 50.2, comprises a seat unit, also called "window seat unit", arranged on the side of one of the side walls of the aircraft cabin 47.

[0110] According to the exemplary embodiment presented, the window-side seat units are the first seat units 11.1 for the first side column 50.1 and the second seat units 11.2 for the second side column 50.2.

[0111] According to the embodiment of [Fig.5a], the window-side seat unit is offset longitudinally forward relative to the aisle-side seat unit.

[0112] Alternatively, according to the embodiments of [Fig.5b] and [Fig.5c], the aisle seat unit is offset longitudinally forward relative to the window seat unit.

[0113] The aircraft cabin 47 may further comprise a central assembly 51 comprising at least a third column 50.3 of groups of seat units 10 and, in particular, a third column 50.3 and a fourth column 50.4 of groups of seat units 10. The third column 50.3, respectively the fourth column 50.4, extends along the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft.

[0114] In particular, the third column 50.3 and the fourth column 50.4 are arranged next to each other in such a way that there is no interstitial space between the third column 50.3 and the fourth column 50.4 so as to allow a passenger to pass between the third column 50.3 and the fourth column 50.4.

[0115] The central assembly 51 is separated from the first lateral column 50.1 by means of a first circulation corridor 52.1. The central assembly 51 is separated from the second lateral column 50.2 by means of a second circulation corridor 52.2.

[0116] Each group of seating units 10 of the third column 50.3, respectively of the fourth column 50.4, comprises a seating unit located on the side of the first circulation aisle 52.1, respectively of the second circulation aisle 52.2, also referred to as "aisle-side seating unit". According to the exemplary embodiment presented, the aisle-side seating units are the first seating units 11.1 for the third side column 50.3 and the second seating units 11.2 for the fourth side column 50.2.

[0117] In addition, each group of seating units 10 comprises a seating unit located on the side of a center of the central assembly 51, also referred to as a "central seating unit". According to the exemplary embodiment presented, the central seating units are the second seating units 11.2 for the third side column 50.3 and the first seating units 11.1 for the fourth side column 50.2.

[0118] In the embodiment of [Fig.5a], the second seat units 11.2 of the third column 50.3, respectively the first seat units 11.1 of the fourth column 50.4, are offset longitudinally forwards relative to the first seat units 11.1 of the third column 50.3, respectively relative to the second seat units 11.2 of the fourth column 50.4.

[0119] Alternatively, according to the embodiments of figures 5b and 5c, the first seat units 11.1 of the third column 50.3, respectively the second seat units 11.2 of the fourth column 50.4, are offset longitudinally forwards relative to the second seat units 11.2 of the third column 50.3, respectively the first seat units 11.1 of the fourth column 50.4.

[0120] Alternatively or additionally, depending on the embodiment of [Fig.5c], the extension axis XI of the first seats 12.1 and / or the extension axis X2 of the second seats 12.2 form a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft cabin 47.

[0121] Advantageously, the first seats 12.1 and / or the second seats 12.2 are turned in a direction opposite to the first circulation corridor 52.1 and to the second circulation corridor 52.2.

[0122] Optimizing the density of the aircraft cabin 47 relative to the dimensions of the latter is in particular possible by modifying the angle of the extension axis XI of the first seats 12.1 and / or the extension axis X2 of the second seats 12.2 relative to the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft 47.

[0123] It is possible to vary a pitch P, also called “pitch” according to English terminology, depending on the dimensions of the aircraft cabin 47.

[0124] The pitch between two groups of seat units 10 arranged in the same column of groups of seat units 10 corresponds to a distance between two reference points of two seats of two adjacent groups of seat units located one behind the other, for example two points located on a rear face of two consecutive privacy hulls, according to the longitudinal direction of the aircraft.

[0125] The pitch P may be between 30 inches (about 76.2 cm) and 50 inches (about 127 cm), in particular between 35 inches (about 88.9 cm) and 45 inches (about 114.3 cm), in particular equal to or substantially equal to 40 inches (about 101.6 cm).

[0126] According to the examples shown in Figures 5a, 5b, 5c, the aircraft seating arrangements are of the "2 / 4 / 2" type, that is to say, comprising, according to a transverse direction of the aircraft, 2 side seat units, 4 center seat units and 2 side seat units and two aisle walkways.

[0127] Alternatively, aircraft seating arrangements may be of the "2 / 2" type in which there is no central assembly 51. The aircraft seating arrangement of the "2 / 2" type then comprises only a first side column 50.1 and a second side column 50.2 separated from each other by a single circulation aisle.

[0128] According to another variant, the aircraft seating arrangements may be of the “2 / 2 / 2 / ” type, in which the central assembly 51 comprises a single column of seating units.

[0129] According to yet another variant, the aircraft seating arrangements may be of the "2 / 3 / 2" type, in which the third column 50.3 or the fourth column 50.4 comprises groups of seating units 10 comprising only one seating unit, i.e. the first seating unit 11.1 or the second seating unit 11.2.

[0130] The invention can also be implemented with seats installed in other means of transport, such as for example bus, train or boat seats.

[0131] Of course, the various features, variants and / or embodiments of the present invention may be combined with each other in various combinations to the extent that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive.

[0132] Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and provided solely by way of example. It encompasses various modifications, alternative forms and other variants that may be envisaged by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention and in particular all combinations of the different modes of operation described above, which may be taken separately or in association.

Claims

Claims

1. Group of seating units (10) comprising a first seating unit (11.1) comprising a first seat (12.1) comprising at least a first seat (13.1) and a first backrest (14.1) and a second seating unit (11.2) comprising a second seat (12.2) comprising at least a second seat (13.2) and a second backrest (14.2), characterized in that the first seating unit (11.1) and the second seating unit (11.2) are arranged side by side and facing in the same direction, and in that the first seating unit (11.1) and the second seating unit (11.2) are longitudinally offset forwards relative to each other.

2. Group of seating units (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first seat (12.1) extends along an extension axis (XI) and the second seat (12.2) extends along an extension axis (X2), and in that the extension axis (XI) of the first seat (12.1) and the extension axis (X2) of the second seat (12.2) are parallel to each other or form a non-zero angle to each other and / or to a reference longitudinal direction (Dref).

3. A group of seating units (10) according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the first seating unit (11.1) comprises a first shelf (31.1), movable between a stored position and a deployed position, and the second seating unit (11.2) comprises a second shelf (31.2), movable between a stored position and a deployed position, and in that, when the first shelf (31.1) and the second shelf (31.2) are in the deployed position, the first shelf (31.1) and the second shelf (31.2) are longitudinally offset relative to each other.

4. Group of seat units (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a central console (28) arranged between the first seat (12.1) and the second seat (12.2), said central console (28) being able to comprise a storage space, in particular located at the rear of the central console, in par- particular facing the rear of the seating unit group.

5. Group of seating units (10) according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that the central console (28) comprises a first storage housing (32.1), intended to receive the first shelf (31.1) in the stored position, and a second storage housing (32.2), intended to receive the second shelf (31.2) in the stored position.

6. Group of seating units (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one side armrest (36.1, 36.2) arranged along one side of one of the seats (12.1, 12.2), in particular movable between a "raised" position, in which the side armrest (36.1, 36.2) is located above the seat (13.1, 13.2) and a "lowered" position, in which the side armrest (36.1, 36.2) is located at the seat or below the seat (13.1, 13.2).

7. Group of seating units (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one central partition (35), in particular movable between a stored position and a deployed position, arranged between the first seat (12.1) and the second seat (12.2), and / or at least one upper partition (46), in particular movable between a "lowered" position, in which an upper edge of the upper partition (46) is located at an upper edge of the backrest (14.1, 14.2) and a "raised" position, in which the upper edge of the upper partition (46) is located above the upper edge of the backrest (14.1, 14.2).

8. A group of seating units (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first seating unit (11.1) comprises a first privacy shell (15.1) at least partly surrounding the first seat (12.1) and mechanically connected to the first backrest (14.1) so as to move with the first backrest (14.1) when the first seat (12.1) moves from a sitting position to a comfort position, and / or the second seating unit (11.2) comprises a second privacy shell (15.2) at least partly surrounding the second seat (12.2) and mechanically connected to the second backrest (14.2) so as to move with the second backrest (14.2) when the second seat (12.2) moves from a sitting position to a comfort position.

9. An aircraft cabin (47) comprising a first side wall and a second side wall extending along a longitudinal axis (X), the first side wall and the second side wall being spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis (Y), and an arrangement of seating units (11.1, 11.2), characterized in that the arrangement of seating units (11.1, 11.2) comprises at least: a first side column (50.1) of at least one group of seating units (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, and a second side column (50.2) of at least one group of seating units (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, and in that the group of seating units (10) of the first side column (50.1) comprises a seat unit (11.2) arranged on the side of a traffic aisle (52.1, 52.2) and a seat unit (11.1) arranged on the side of the first side wall, and the group of seat units (10) of the second side column (50.2) comprises a seat unit (11.1) arranged on the side of a circulation corridor (52.1, 52.2) and a seat unit (11.2) arranged on the side of the second side wall.

10. Aircraft cabin (47) according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that it further comprises a central assembly (51) comprising at least one third column (50.3) of at least one group of seat units (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and in that the third column (50.3) is separated from the first lateral column (50.1) and / or the second lateral column (50.2) by at least one circulation corridor (52, 52.1, 52.2).

11. Aircraft cabin (47) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the central assembly (51) comprises at least a fourth column (50.4) of at least one group of seat units (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the third column (50.3) and the fourth column (50.4) being arranged next to each other.

12. Aircraft cabin (47) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the group of seat units (10) of the third column (50.3) and the group of seat units (10) of the fourth column (50.4) comprise a seat unit located on the side of a traffic aisle (52.1, 52.2) and a seat unit located on the side of a traffic center ... the central assembly (51).

13. Aircraft cabin (47) according to claim 13, characterized in that the central seating units (11.1, 11.2) of the third column (50.3) and the fourth column (50.4) are longitudinally offset forwards relative to the seating units (11.1, 11.2) located on the side of the traffic aisle (52.1, 52.2) of the third column (50.3) and the fourth column (50.4).

14. Aircraft cabin (47) according to claim 13, characterized in that the seating units (11.1, 11.2) located on the side of the traffic aisle (52.1, 52.2) of the third column (50.3) and the fourth column (50.4) are longitudinally offset forwards relative to the central seating units (11.1, 11.2) of the third column (50.3) and the fourth column (50.4).

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