Device for the automated control of an aircraft's air conditioning

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (30) for the automated control of aircraft air conditioning, said device (30) comprising a housing (310) in which are mounted a power supply module (320) and a processing module (330), said power supply module (320) being configured to store electrical energy and to power said processing module (330), the processing module (330) being configured to receive the output signal provided by a sensor, to extract at least one measurement of the parameter, to create a wireless communication link with an air conditioning unit, and to send the at least one extracted measurement to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link. Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Device for the automated control of aircraft air conditioning technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of aeronautics and more particularly concerns a device for the automated control of the air conditioning of an aircraft. Previous technique

[0002] On an airport tarmac, it is known to use a duct to connect an air conditioning unit, called an "Air Conditioning Unit" or "ACU," to an aircraft, typically a commercial airliner, to cool or heat the cabin air according to its temperature. The air conditioning unit is controlled by an operator from a control interface located on said air conditioning unit.

[0003] The duct is generally flexible and permanently mounted on the air conditioning unit and then connected and disconnected from the air conditioning air intake of each aircraft.

[0004] In order to air condition the aircraft, when the operator is alone, it is necessary for him to first bring the outlet end of the duct to the aircraft's air conditioning inlet connector to connect it, then in a second step to return to the air conditioning unit to check it, then in a third step to return to disconnect the duct at the aircraft, which can prove to be particularly time-consuming.

[0005] An alternative solution requires a first operator to unroll and connect the duct, this first operator remaining at the aircraft for the duration of the air conditioning operation, and a second operator to control the air conditioning unit. The first operator then disconnects and rewinds the duct once the air conditioning operation is complete. Using two operators saves time but results in significant labor costs. Furthermore, it is not always feasible to have two operators for each aircraft.

[0006] Another disadvantage of existing solutions is that it can be difficult for the operator at the air conditioning unit to control the aircraft's air conditioning because the temperature, pressure and airflow depend on the length of the duct, which generally varies between 9 and 30 meters.

[0007] There is therefore a need for a simple and effective solution to remedy at least some of these drawbacks. Description of the invention

[0008] To this end, the invention first relates to a device for the automated control of the air conditioning of an aircraft, said air conditioning being carried out from an air conditioning unit connected to said aircraft by a flexible duct, said duct comprising an inlet end, configured to be fixed to an air outlet, generally rigid, of the air conditioning unit, and an outlet end comprising a connector, configured to be connected to an air conditioning air inlet of the aircraft, said device comprising at least one sensor configured to be positioned inside the duct at said outlet end, to measure a parameter of the air circulating in the duct and to generate an output signal representative of at least one measurement of said parameter, said device comprising a housing in which are mounted a power supply module and a processing module,said power supply module being configured to store electrical energy and to electrically power said processing module, the processing module being configured to receive the output signal provided by at least one sensor, to extract at least one measurement of the parameter, to create a wireless communication link with the air conditioning unit and to send the at least one extracted measurement to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link created in order to automatically control the air conditioning unit.

[0009] The measured parameter can be the air temperature, the dynamic air pressure, the static air pressure or the air flow rate (measured for example using two air pressure sensors).

[0010] The automated measurement control device according to the invention is a wireless communication device that allows a single operator to deploy the air conditioning duct, connect it to the aircraft, measure parameters in real time to automatically control the air conditioning unit remotely, i.e., from the outlet end connected to the aircraft, and then disconnect and retract the duct back to the air conditioning unit in a simple, quick, and efficient manner. In particular, it eliminates the need for two operators to perform air conditioning operations. Furthermore, the device can be worn by the operator throughout the operations without hindering their movements. For example, measuring the air pressure at the outlet end of the duct, i.e., at the end of the duct, prevents exceeding the aircraft's pressure and flow limits.

[0011] A more obvious solution would have been to mount a temperature or pressure sensor inside the flexible duct and connect it by a cable to the air conditioning unit to control the air conditioning operation. However, the cable would have been subject to abrasion on the ground if it ran outside the flexible duct, or to inaccurate measurements if it ran inside the flexible duct due to disturbances generated by the air circulating in the duct, which increase with the length of the duct. Therefore, in this solution, a person skilled in the art would have sought to mount the sensor closer to the air conditioning unit in order to reduce the length of the cable and thus limit the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0012] In one embodiment, the housing is configured to be fixed, for example via a receiving support, on the exit end of the sheath, preferably on the connector or on a sleeve fixed between the body of the sheath and the exit connector.

[0013] Preferably, the automated measurement control device is configured to periodically send a measurement of at least one parameter measured by at least one sensor to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link so that the air conditioning unit regulates the measured parameter, for example, air temperature, air pressure or air flow rate.

[0014] Alternatively or in addition, the automated measurement control device can be configured to send a measurement of at least one parameter measured by at least one sensor to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link, following an event, so that the air conditioning unit regulates the measured parameter, for example, air temperature, air pressure, or air flow rate, or another parameter measured by another sensor embedded in the device, such as a gyroscope or accelerometer. For example, the event could be exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the parameter value, such as a sudden change in temperature or pressure. In the latter case, an alert message can be sent to the air conditioning unit rather than the acceleration measurement itself.

[0015] Preferably, the processing module is connected to at least one sensor by wire, being configured to pass through the body of the duct or the output connector of the duct in order to be able to carry out measurements inside the duct.

[0016] Alternatively or in addition, the output signal can be transmitted between at least one sensor and the device by electrical contact when the device is mounted on a receiving support of the sheath.

[0017] Preferably, the wireless communication link is a radio communication link. For example, the communication link is of the Wifi, Bluetooth, Ultra Wide Band (UWB) type or any other type of link.

[0018] Preferably, the wireless communication link is bidirectional.

[0019] Preferably, the automated measurement control device is watertight, for example by conforming to the IP67 or IP68 standard.

[0020] Preferably, the automated measurement control device is configured to send commands to the air conditioning unit to control the operation of said air conditioning unit. For example, the commands may be commands to start or stop the air conditioning unit, to increase or decrease the temperature, to increase or decrease the speed or airflow, to change modes, for example between a heating or cooling mode, to automatically wind or unwind the duct when it is mounted on a controllable duct reel (the device mounted at the outlet end of the duct accompanies the deployment of said outlet end to the aircraft air conditioning inlet), etc.

[0021] Preferably, the power supply module includes an interchangeable or rechargeable battery, in particular by contact or by induction.

[0022] In one embodiment, the power supply module is configured to be recharged by electrical contact.

[0023] Preferably, the automated measurement control device includes two charging terminals passing through the housing and which are connected to the power supply module to recharge it with electrical energy when said charging terminals are in contact with a pair of metallic terminals of a charging support, for example mounted on the duct or on the air conditioning unit or on a duct reel.

[0024] Alternatively or in addition, the power supply module is configured to be recharged with electrical energy by induction from an inductive charging support mounted on the air conditioning unit or on a duct reel.

[0025] Alternatively or in addition, the power supply module is configured to be recharged with electrical energy by connecting a cable.

[0026] In one embodiment, the automated measurement control device includes a solar module electrically connected to the power supply module and configured to capture solar energy, convert it into electrical energy and recharge said power supply module with electrical energy.

[0027] In one embodiment, the automated measurement control device can be integrated into (i.e. mounted on or in) the connector of the outlet end of the duct or into a rigid sleeve configured to be fitted between the duct body and the connector, with at least one sensor then being mounted respectively inside the connector or inside the sleeve, which makes it possible to add the connector carrying the device to an existing duct body or the sleeve carrying the device between a duct body and a connector of an existing duct.

[0028] Advantageously, the automated measurement control device is removable from the sheath in order to allow for maintenance.

[0029] Advantageously, the automated measurement control device is removable without tools for use at a distance from the duct, in particular in the aircraft cabin in order to control the air conditioning in real time from the cabin or to carry out tests or to perform maintenance.

[0030] Preferably, the automated measurement control device is configured to receive an information and / or alert message from the air conditioning unit via the wireless communication link and to inform and / or alert the operator of said device. For example, the air conditioning unit can inform the operator of the start and / or end of the air conditioning operation, or of the temperature and / or pressure values ​​of the air circulating at the end of the duct, or alert them to a leak or a bend in the duct.

[0031] Advantageously, the automated measurement control device includes a geolocation module configured to locate, i.e. determine the position, of the device at any time.

[0032] Preferably, the geolocation module is a satellite geolocation module, for example of the GPS or GALILEO or GLONASS type.

[0033] Preferably, the automated measurement control device is configured to send the location determined by the geolocation module to the air conditioning unit, for example periodically or as a result of an event such as a sudden change in location, for example.

[0034] Preferably, the automated measurement control device includes an acceleration sensor (accelerometer) or a gyroscopic sensor (gyroscope) and is configured to send the device's acceleration values ​​or its position / tilt in space to the air conditioning unit, particularly following the detection of an event such as, for example, a sudden change in acceleration or a significant change in the device's position in space, indicating, for example, that the outlet is improperly connected to the aircraft's air inlet. Such a sensor may, in particular, enable the detection of the duct outlet connector's position relative to the aircraft's air inlet connector to verify that the duct outlet connector is correctly connected to the aircraft's air inlet connector.Such a sensor can also, in particular, enable the activation of the air conditioning unit, which can take between 2 and 3 minutes, from the moment the device is picked up or from the moment the duct is unrolled when the device is mounted on the duct in order to allow the start of ventilation once the duct is unrolled and connected to the aircraft, this can again take 2 to 3 minutes, which leads to a parallelization of tasks and thus an optimization of the duration of operations. Air conditioning. Activating the air conditioning unit allows, in particular, for faster shutdown of the aircraft's APU (Auxiliary Power Unit), a kerosene-powered turbine that supplies the aircraft with electricity and consumes a significant amount of kerosene to operate. This APU is generally running until the air conditioning unit takes over, leading to a reduction in the aircraft's carbon footprint on the ground, potentially by up to 90%. Such a sensor can also be used to monitor misuse of the duct outlet connector and the device (impacts) or accidents and report them to operator management.

[0035] The invention also relates to a remote control device for the air conditioning of an aircraft, said air conditioning being carried out from an air conditioning unit connected to said aircraft by a flexible duct, said duct comprising an inlet end configured to be fixed to an air outlet, generally rigid, of the air conditioning unit, an outlet end comprising a connector configured to be connected to an air conditioning air inlet of the aircraft, said device comprising a housing in which are mounted a power supply module and a processing module, said power supply module being configured to store electrical energy and to electrically power said processing module,The processing module is configured to create a wireless communication link with the air conditioning unit and to send at least one command to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link in order to control its operation.

[0036] For example, the controls may be controls for starting or stopping the air conditioning unit, increasing or decreasing the temperature, increasing or decreasing the speed or airflow, changing the mode, for example between a hot mode or a cold mode, automatic winding or automatic unwinding of the duct when mounted on a duct reel (the device mounted at the outlet end of the duct accompanies the deployment of said outlet end to the aircraft air conditioning inlet), etc.

[0037] The remote control device according to the invention is a wireless communication device that allows a single operator to deploy the air conditioning duct, connect it to the aircraft, remotely control the operation of the air conditioning unit from the outlet end connected to the aircraft, and then disconnect and retract the duct back to the air conditioning unit in a simple, quick, and efficient manner. In particular, it is not necessary to involve two operators for air conditioning operations. Furthermore, the device can be worn by the operator throughout the operations, or even continuously, without hindering their movements.

[0038] In one embodiment, the control device housing is configured to be fixed, for example via a receiving support, on the exit end of the sheath, preferably on the connector or on a sleeve fixed between the body of the sheath and the exit connector.

[0039] Preferably, the wireless communication link is a radio communication link. For example, the communication link is of the Wifi, Bluetooth, Ultra Wide Band (UWB) type or any other type of link.

[0040] Preferably, the wireless communication link is bidirectional.

[0041] Advantageously, the remote control device is waterproof, for example by conforming to the IP67 or IP68 standard.

[0042] Preferably, the power supply module of the remote control device includes an interchangeable or rechargeable battery, in particular by contact or by induction.

[0043] In one embodiment, the power supply module of the remote control device is configured to be recharged by electrical contact.

[0044] Preferably, the remote control device includes two charging terminals passing through the housing and which are connected to the power supply module to recharge it with electrical energy when said charging terminals are in contact with a pair of metal terminals of a charging support, for example mounted on the duct or on the air conditioning unit or on a duct reel.

[0045] Alternatively or in addition, the power supply module of the remote control device is configured to be recharged with electrical energy by induction from an inductive charging support mounted on the air conditioning unit or on a duct reel.

[0046] Alternatively or in addition, the power supply module of the remote control device is configured to be recharged with electrical energy by connecting a cable.

[0047] In one embodiment, the remote control device includes a solar module electrically connected to the power supply module and configured to capture solar energy, convert it into electrical energy and recharge said power supply module with electrical energy.

[0048] In one embodiment, the remote control device can be integrated (i.e., mounted on or in) the connector at the outlet end of the sheath or a rigid sleeve configured to be fitted between the sheath body and the connector, thus allowing the connector carrying the device to be added to a body of existing sheath or the sleeve containing the device between a sheath body and a connector of an existing sheath.

[0049] Advantageously, the remote control device is removable from its support associated with the sheath in order to allow for maintenance.

[0050] Advantageously, the remote control device is removable without tools for use at a distance from the duct, in particular in the aircraft cabin in order to control the air conditioning in real time from the cabin or to carry out tests or to perform maintenance.

[0051] In one embodiment, the device includes at least one sensor configured to extend inside the duct at said outlet end, to measure a parameter of the air flowing in the duct and to generate an output signal representative of at least one measurement of said parameter, the processing module of the remote control device being configured to receive the output signal provided by at least one sensor, to extract at least one measurement of the parameter, to create a wireless communication link with the air conditioning unit and to send the at least one extracted measurement to the air conditioning unit over said created wireless communication link.

[0052] Preferably, the remote control device is configured to periodically send a measurement of at least one parameter measured by at least one sensor to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link so that the air conditioning unit regulates the measured parameter, for example, air temperature, air pressure or air flow rate.

[0053] Alternatively or in addition, the remote control device can be configured to send a measurement of at least one parameter measured by at least one sensor to the air conditioning unit over said wireless communication link, following an event, so that the air conditioning unit can regulate the measured parameter, for example, air temperature, air pressure, or airflow. For example, the event could be exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the parameter value, such as a sudden change in temperature or pressure.

[0054] Preferably, the processing module is connected to at least one sensor by wire or by electrical contact, being configured to pass through the body of the sheath or the sheath output connector in order to perform measurements inside the sheath.

[0055] Alternatively or in addition, the output signal can be transmitted between at least one sensor and the remote control device by electrical contact when the device is mounted on a sheath receiving support.

[0056] For example, the parameter may be air pressure and be measured using an air pressure sensor or air flow, measured for example using two air pressure sensors, and the warning message may be a warning message of a leak or a bend in the duct.

[0057] Preferably, the remote control device is configured to receive an information and / or alert message from the air conditioning unit via the wireless communication link and to inform and / or alert the operator of said device. For example, the air conditioning unit can inform the operator located at the device of the start and / or end of the air conditioning operation or of the temperature and / or pressure values ​​of the air circulating at the end of the duct (when the duct includes at least one sensor).

[0058] Advantageously, the remote control device includes a geolocation module configured to locate, i.e. determine the position, of the device at any time.

[0059] Preferably, the geolocation module is a satellite geolocation module, for example of the GPS or GALILEO or GLONASS type.

[0060] Preferably, the remote control device is configured to send the location determined by the geolocation module to the air conditioning unit, for example periodically or as a result of an event such as a sudden change in location, for example.

[0061] Preferably, the automated measurement control device includes an acceleration sensor (accelerometer) or a gyroscopic sensor (gyroscope). Such a sensor can, in particular, detect the position / tilt of the duct outlet connector relative to the aircraft air inlet connector to verify that the duct outlet connector is correctly connected to the aircraft air inlet connector. Such a sensor can also, in particular, activate the air conditioning unit, which can take between 2 and 3 minutes, either upon taking possession of the device or upon unwinding the duct when the device is mounted on the duct, to enable the start of ventilation once the duct is unrolled and connected to the aircraft. This, again, can take 2 to 3 minutes, resulting in parallel tasks and thus optimizing the duration of air conditioning operations.Activating the air conditioning unit allows, in particular, for the faster shutdown of the aircraft's Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), a kerosene-powered turbine that supplies the aircraft with electricity and consumes a significant amount of kerosene to operate. This APU is generally running until the air conditioning unit takes over, leading to a reduction in the aircraft's carbon footprint on the ground of up to 90%. Such a sensor can also be used to monitor for misuse of the output connector. of the sheath and device (shocks) or accidents and to report them to operator management.

[0062] Preferably, the remote control device is configured to send a measurement of at least one parameter measured by the acceleration or gyroscope sensor, or an information message, to the air conditioning unit over the wireless communication link, following an event so that the air conditioning unit performs a predetermined action. For example, the event could be exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the value of the parameter measured by the acceleration or gyroscope sensor, such as a sudden change in acceleration due to the device falling. In the latter case, an alert message could be sent to the air conditioning unit rather than the acceleration measurement itself.In the case of a gyroscopic sensor, the device can send the device's tilt values ​​in three dimensions to allow the air conditioning unit to detect when the device is mounted on the outlet connector of a duct.

[0063] In general, the automated measurement control device can implement any characteristic of the remote control device and vice versa.

[0064] The invention also relates to an aircraft air conditioning duct, said duct comprising:

[0065] - an inlet end configured to be attached to an air outlet of a unit of aircraft air conditioning,

[0066] - an output end comprising a connector configured to be connected to an aircraft air conditioning air intake,

[0067] - an automated control and / or remote control device as presented previously mounted at the level of said exit end of the sheath.

[0068] In one embodiment, the sheath includes a solar module, electrically connected to the power supply module of the device and configured to capture solar energy, transform said solar energy into electrical energy and recharge said power supply module from said electrical energy.

[0069] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a sheath as presented above and an automated control and / or remote control device as presented previously.

[0070] The invention also relates to an aircraft air conditioning duct reel, said reel being configured to wind and unwind an aircraft air conditioning duct and comprising a charging support configured to electrically recharge the power supply module of an automated control and / or remote control device as described above.

[0071] Advantageously, the reel includes a charging support comprising one or more electrical terminals and configured to be in electrical contact with the device in the wound position of the sheath on the reel in order to electrically recharge the power supply module.

[0072] As an alternative or in addition, the reel includes an induction charging support to allow the electrical charging of the power supply module by induction when the sheath is wound on the reel.

[0073] Preferably, the reel is configured to automatically start charging when the device comes into contact with the electrical terminals or in the immediate vicinity, for example less than 5 cm, of the charging support when said charging support is inductive.

[0074] The invention also relates to an aircraft air conditioning unit, configured to receive, over a wireless communication link, a measurement of at least one parameter measured and sent by an automated control device as previously described, and to regulate the measured parameter according to the measurement value received, i.e. adapt the operation of the air conditioning according to the measurement value received, in particular according to the temperature and / or pressure, for example by increasing or decreasing the temperature and / or pressure or the flow rate of the air sent through the duct.

[0075] Preferably, the air conditioning unit is configured to receive the location of the device, sent by the device, to associate the device with the aircraft which is connected by a duct to said air conditioning unit, to determine the type of said aircraft and to adapt the air conditioning of said aircraft according to the type determined.

[0076] Preferably, the air conditioning unit is configured to send an alert message to the device when the received parameter measurement exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0077] Advantageously, the air conditioning unit includes a duct reel as shown above.

[0078] The invention also relates to an aircraft air conditioning unit, configured to receive, over a wireless communication link, at least one command sent by a remote control device as previously described and to modify its operation according to said at least one command received.

[0079] Preferably, the air conditioning unit is configured to receive the device location, sent by the device, to associate the device with the aircraft which is connected by a duct to said air conditioning unit, to to determine the type of said aircraft and to adapt the air conditioning parameters of said aircraft according to its determined type.

[0080] Advantageously, the air conditioning unit includes a duct reel as shown above.

[0081] The invention also relates to an aircraft air conditioning system, said system comprising an aircraft air conditioning unit as shown above, a duct as shown above and an automated control and / or remote control device as shown above.

[0082] The invention also relates to a method for the automated control of an aircraft air conditioning unit in a system as described above, said aircraft being connected to the air conditioning unit by the duct, said method comprising the steps of:

[0083] - receiving an output signal provided by at least one sensor of the device,

[0084] - extraction of at least one measurement of a parameter of the air circulating in the duct,

[0085] - creation of a wireless communication link with the air conditioning unit,

[0086] - sending, by the device, at least one measurement extracted at the unit level air conditioning over said wireless communication link created,

[0087] - reception by the air conditioning unit of at least one measurement,

[0088] - regulation of aircraft air conditioning by the air conditioning unit in function of at least one measurement received.

[0089] Preferably, the receiving, extracting and sending steps are carried out periodically by the device and / or as a result of an event, for example, exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the value of the parameter, such as a sudden change in temperature or pressure.

[0090] Preferably, the method includes receiving an alert message sent by the air conditioning unit, particularly in the event of exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the value of the parameter, such as a sudden change in temperature or pressure.

[0091] Advantageously, the device comprising a geolocation module, the method further comprises the steps of:

[0092] - determination by the device's geolocation module of its location,

[0093] - sending the determined location to the air conditioning unit,

[0094] - receipt of the sent location,

[0095] - association of the device with the aircraft,

[0096] - determination of the type of said aircraft,

[0097] - adaptation of the aircraft air conditioning control and regulation according to of the specified aircraft type.

[0098] Advantageously, the automated control method includes a step of charging the device's power supply module, either wired or inductively, for example on a charging support mounted on a duct reel or on the air conditioning unit.

[0099] The invention also relates to a method for remotely controlling an aircraft air conditioning unit in a system as described above, said method comprising the steps of:

[0100] - selection of a command by an operator on the control device,

[0101] - creation by the device of a wireless communication link with the unit of air conditioning,

[0102] - sending said order to the air conditioning unit on said link of wireless communication created,

[0103] - receipt of the command sent by the air conditioning unit,

[0104] - control of the air conditioning unit from the received command.

[0105] Preferably, the remote control method includes the sending by the air conditioning unit of an information or alert message and the receipt by the device of an information or alert message sent by the air conditioning unit.

[0106] Advantageously, the remote control device comprising a geolocation module, the remote control method further comprises the steps of:

[0107] - determination by the device's geolocation module of its location,

[0108] - sending the determined location to the air conditioning unit,

[0109] - receipt of the sent location,

[0110] - association of the device with the aircraft,

[0111] - determination of the type of said aircraft,

[0112] - adaptation of the aircraft air conditioning according to the determined type.

[0113] Advantageously, the remote control method includes a step of charging the device's power supply module, either wired or inductively, for example on a charging support mounted on a duct reel or on the air conditioning unit.

[0114] In one embodiment, wherein the remote control device includes at least one sensor configured to be positioned inside the duct at said outlet end, to measure a parameter of the air flowing in the duct and to generate an output signal representative of at least one measurement of said parameter, the method comprises the steps of:

[0115] - receiving an output signal provided by at least one sensor of the device,

[0116] - extraction of at least one measurement of a parameter of the air circulating in the duct,

[0117] - creation of a wireless communication link with the air conditioning unit,

[0118] - sending, by the device, at least one measurement extracted at the unit level air conditioning over said wireless communication link created,

[0119] - reception by the air conditioning unit of at least one measurement,

[0120] - regulation of aircraft air conditioning by the air conditioning unit in function of at least one measurement received.

[0121] Preferably, the receiving, extracting and sending steps are carried out periodically by the device and / or as a result of an event, for example, exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the value of the parameter, such as a sudden change in temperature or pressure.

[0122] Preferably, the remote control method includes receiving an alert message sent by the air conditioning unit, in particular in the event of exceeding a threshold or a sudden change in the value of the parameter, such as a sudden change in air temperature or air pressure in the duct or acceleration of the device, for example following a shock.

[0123] In general, any step of the automated control process by measurement can be implemented in the remote control process and vice versa. Brief description of the drawings

[0124] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description. This description is purely illustrative and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0125] [Fig-1] Fig.1 schematically illustrates one embodiment of the system according to the invention.

[0126] [Fig.2] Fig.2 schematically illustrates the exit end of the sheath according to the invention.

[0127] [Fig.3] Fig.3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sheath of the [Fig.2],

[0128] [Fig.4] The [Fig.4] schematically illustrates the communication link between the air conditioning unit and the device.

[0129] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] schematically illustrates one embodiment of the process according to the invention. Description of the implementation methods

[0130] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an example of system 1 according to the invention.

[0131] System 1 comprises an air conditioning unit 10, a duct 20 and, with reference to [Fig.2], a device 30.

[0132] The duct 20 is connected on one side to the air conditioning unit 10 and on the other side to an aircraft 2.

[0133] Air conditioning unit 10

[0134] The air conditioning unit 10 is configured to generate an airflow to be sent to the aircraft 2 via the duct 20. To this end, in a manner known per se, the air conditioning unit 10 includes an air outlet 110 onto which the duct 20 is attached.

[0135] The air conditioning unit 10 is configured to receive signals sent by the device 30 over a wireless communication link L1 ([Fig.4]), for example a radio communication link of the Wifi, Bluetooth or Ultra Wide Band (Ultra Wide Band or UWB) type.

[0136] The air conditioning unit 10 is configured to operate in several modes such as, for example, a standard ventilation mode (generating an airflow, the temperature of which is for example between 20°C and 30°C), a heating mode (generating a hot airflow, for example above 30°C) and a cooling mode (generating a hot airflow, for example below 20°C).

[0137] In one embodiment, the air conditioning unit 10 is configured to periodically receive one or more measurements of one or more parameters, for example air temperature, air pressure or air flow rate, sent by the device 30 and to regulate the measured parameter(s), for example increase or decrease the temperature of the generated airflow, change the speed and therefore the pressure and / or flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0138] The air conditioning unit 10 preferably includes a controllable duct reel (not shown) configured to allow automatic unwinding of the duct 20 for use and automatic rewinding of the duct 20 for storage.

[0139] Sheath 20

[0140] As illustrated in figures 2 to 4, the sheath 20 comprises a flexible body 205, an inlet end 210, an outlet end 220 and a device 30 mounted at said outlet end 220.

[0141] The body 205 has a circular section delimiting a hollow internal space allowing the passage of air.

[0142] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the inlet end 210 allows the flexible duct 20 to be fixed to the rigid air outlet 110 of the air conditioning unit 10 and the outlet end 220 has an outlet connector 222 allowing the duct 20 to be connected to an air inlet 2A of the aircraft air conditioning 2.

[0143] Device 30

[0144] With reference to Figures 2 and 3, the device 30 is mounted at the exit end 220 of the sheath 20 and includes a housing 310.

[0145] The housing 310 can be mounted on the body 205 of the sheath 20 or on the output connector 222.

[0146] The housing 310 includes a power supply module 320 and a processing module 330.

[0147] The power supply module 320 is mounted inside the housing 310 and is configured to store electrical energy and to electrically power the processing module 330.

[0148] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], the device 30 further comprises one or more sensors 315 extending through the output connector 222, as illustrated in the example in [Fig. 3]. Alternatively, the sensor(s) 315 could pass through the inner wall 206 of the body 205 of the sheath 20 to open into the hollow space. For clarity, only one sensor 315 has been shown in [Fig. 2].

[0149] The sensor 315 is configured to measure a parameter of the air flowing in the duct 20 and to generate an output signal representative of at least one measurement of said parameter.

[0150] The sensor 315 can, for example, be a 315 sensor for measuring the temperature of the air circulating in the duct 20, a 315 sensor for measuring the pressure of the air circulating in the duct 20, a 315 sensor for measuring the flow rate of the air circulating in the duct 20, or any other 315 sensor for measuring a parameter of the air circulating in the duct 20 or a parameter related to the duct 20 itself.

[0151] In the case of measuring the air flow rate, two pressure sensors 315 can be used to measure the air pressure in the duct 20 and deduce the air flow velocity and then the flow rate which is the product of the air velocity by the cross-section of the duct 20.

[0152] The processing module 330 is configured to receive the output signal provided by the sensor(s) 315 and to extract from said output signal one or more measurements of the measured parameter.

[0153] The processing module 330 is configured to establish a wireless communication link L1 with the air conditioning unit 10 ([Fig. 4]). As described previously, the wireless communication link L1 is preferably a radio communication link. For example, the wireless communication link L1 is of the Wifi, Bluetooth, UWB, or any other type of link.

[0154] To this end, the processing module 330 includes one or more antennas.

[0155] Preferably, the L1 wireless communication link is bidirectional so that the processing module 330 can both transmit and receive signals.

[0156] In one embodiment, the processing module 330 is configured to send the extracted measurement(s) to the air conditioning unit 10 over a previously created wireless communication link L1. Preferably, the processing module 330 of device 30 is configured to periodically send the measurement(s) extracted from one or more parameters from the sensor(s) 315 to the air conditioning unit 10 over the wireless communication link L1 so that the air conditioning unit 10 regulates the measured parameter, for example, air temperature, air pressure or air flow.

[0157] In one embodiment, the processing module 330 of the device 30 is configured to receive an information or alert message from the air conditioning unit 10, via the wireless communication link L1, and to inform or alert the operator of said device 30, for example, to inform the user of the device 30 of a malfunction or the operating mode of the air conditioning unit. For example, the measured parameter may be temperature, air pressure (using one air pressure sensor 315), or air flow rate (using two air pressure sensors 315), and the message may be an alert message of a leak or a bend in the duct in the case of a pressure measurement.

[0158] In one embodiment, the processing module 330 is connected to each sensor 315 by wire, being configured to pass through the body 205 of the sheath 20 or the output connector 222 of the sheath 20 in order to perform measurements inside the sheath 20.

[0159] The processing module 330 may include a processor capable of implementing a set of instructions to perform the functions it implements.

[0160] Preferably, the 320 power supply module includes an interchangeable or rechargeable battery.

[0161] The power supply module 320 can be recharged by contact, wired connection, induction, or any other means of recharging, such as solar charging or a fuel cell. For example, the power supply module 320 can be configured to be recharged electrically by induction from an inductive charging module mounted on the air conditioning unit 10 or on a duct reel.

[0162] In one embodiment, the device 30 comprises two charging stations connected via the housing 310 to the power supply module 320 for recharging it with electrical energy. The two charging stations are configured to make contact with two charging terminals mounted on the air conditioning unit 10 or on a duct reel in order to close an electrical charging circuit, the energy of which is supplied by the air conditioning unit 10 or the duct reel.

[0163] In one embodiment, the device 30 is configured to send control messages to the air conditioning unit in order to control it The operation. For example, the device 30 may include an on / off function for switching the air conditioning unit 10 on or off via a command sent to the air conditioning unit 10 over the wireless communication link L1. Alternatively, the device 30 may include a mode-change function for switching the operating mode of the air conditioning unit 10, for example, from heating to cooling mode, via a command sent to the air conditioning unit 10 over the wireless communication link L1.

[0164] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 2], the device 30 further advantageously includes a geolocation module 340, for example of the GPS type, enabling the location of said device 30 to be determined. The location of the device 30 makes it possible, when the duct 20 is connected to the aircraft 2, to know which aircraft 2 the device 30 is associated with, in the case of several aircraft with several ducts 20 and several devices 30. Each aircraft 2 can be geolocated, in a manner known per se, so as to identify its type. Thus, by associating the aircraft 2 with the device 30 that controls its air conditioning, it is possible for the device 30 to control the air conditioning according to the type of aircraft 2.

[0165] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.2], the device 30 further advantageously includes an acceleration or gyroscopic sensor 350 and is configured to send the acceleration values ​​of the device 30 or the position / tilt of the device in space to the air conditioning unit 10, in particular as a result of the detection of an event such as, for example, a sudden change in acceleration or a significant change in the position in space of the device 30, indicating for example that the output connector 222 of the duct 20 is incorrectly connected to the air inlet 2A of the aircraft 2.

[0166] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 2], the device 30 further advantageously includes a 360 geolocation module, for example of the GPS type, configured to locate, i.e., determine the position, of the device 30 at any time. The device 30 is configured to send the location determined by the 360 ​​geolocation module to the air conditioning unit 10, for example periodically or as a result of an event such as a sudden change in the device's location.

[0167] Example of implementation ([Fig. 5D

[0168] When it is necessary to air-condition aircraft 2, in a step El, an operator grasps the duct 20 wound on the duct reel, unwinds it to aircraft 2 and then connects the outlet end 220 of the duct 20 to the air inlet 2A of aircraft 2.

[0169] The operator sends a command to the air conditioning unit 10 via the device 30 to activate the air conditioning in a step E2.

[0170] During air conditioning, the sensor(s) 315 generate an output signal representative for example of the temperature and pressure, and transmit it to the device 30 in a step E3.

[0171] The processing module 330 of the device 30 extracts in real time the measurements of the output signals received from each sensor 315 in a step E4, creates a wireless communication link L1 with the air conditioning unit 10 in a step E5 and periodically transmits on said wireless communication link L1, to the air conditioning unit 10, the measurements extracted in a step E6.

[0172] Upon receipt by the air conditioning unit 10, in a step E7, the air conditioning unit 10 uses the measurements to regulate the measured parameters, for example temperature and pressure, i.e., to increase or decrease the temperature or to increase or decrease the airflow. The regulation can, for example, be based on predetermined conditions stored in a memory area of ​​the air conditioning unit 10, depending on the values ​​of the received measurements and / or the type of aircraft.

[0173] At any time, the air conditioning unit 10 can send an alert message to the device 30 in a step E8, in particular to warn the operator of the end of air conditioning so that he disconnects the duct 20. Alternatively, the operator can send to the air conditioning unit 10, on the wireless communication link L1, a command to stop the air conditioning.

[0174] Once the air conditioning has stopped, the operator disconnects the output connector 220 from the duct 20 in a step E9 and winds the duct 20 onto the duct winder in a step E10.

[0175] When the duct 20 is wound up and the outlet end 220 of the duct 20 reaches its stowed position, the device 30 comes into contact or very close, for example less than 5 cm, with a charging support mounted on the reel or on another element of the air conditioning unit 10 so as to allow the power supply module 320 of the device 30 to be automatically recharged respectively by electrical contact or by induction in an Eli step.

[0176] Before starting air conditioning or during air conditioning, when the device 30 is equipped with a geolocation module 340, the processing module 330 can obtain the location of the device 30 from the geolocation module 340 and send it, via the communication link L1, to the air conditioning unit 10. The air conditioning unit 10 can then determine which aircraft 2, among all the surrounding aircraft, has the same position, within a few meters, as the device 30 in order to associate them and then identify said aircraft 2 and determine its type. For example, the air conditioning unit 10 can query a database that records the position and registration of each aircraft at any given time in order to know which aircraft 2 is at the position of the device 30, the latter being at the air intake of aircraft 2. Alternatively, the air conditioning unit 10 can listen to the transponder signals of nearby aircraft to obtain their position and registration in real time and thus determine which aircraft 2 is at the position of the device 30. Once aircraft 2 is identified, the air conditioning unit 10 can determine its type and adapt the air conditioning of said aircraft 2 according to the determined type, for example by performing regulation or adapting the air conditioning modes or the sequencing of air conditioning operations.

[0177] The method described above includes both steps relating to automated control by measurement and remote control, but it is understood that the method could include only the steps relating to measurement by the sensor(s) and adaptation of the operation of the air conditioning unit 10 or only the steps relating to remote control of the air conditioning unit 10 by the device 30, as described in the general description of the invention.

[0178] The invention therefore allows a single operator to automatically control and / or remotely control an air conditioning unit 10 in order to avoid going back and forth between the aircraft 2 and said air conditioning unit 10 or having to rely on a second operator to carry out the air conditioning operations of the aircraft 2.

Claims

Demands

1. Device (30) for the automated control of the air conditioning of an aircraft (2), said air conditioning being carried out from an air conditioning unit (10) connected to said aircraft (2) by a flexible duct (20), said duct (20) comprising an inlet end (210), configured to be attached to an air outlet (110) of the air conditioning unit (10), and an outlet end (220), comprising a connector configured to be connected to an air inlet (2A) of the aircraft (2) air conditioning, said device comprising at least one sensor (315) configured to be positioned inside the duct (20) at said outlet end (220), for measuring a parameter of the air flowing in the duct (20) and for generating an output signal representative of at least one measurement of said parameter,said device (30) comprising a housing (310) in which are mounted a power supply module (320) and a processing module (330), said power supply module (320) being configured to store electrical energy and to electrically power said processing module (330), the processing module (330) being configured to receive the output signal provided by at least one sensor (315), to extract at least one measurement of the parameter, to create a wireless communication link (L1) with the air conditioning unit (10) and to send the at least one extracted measurement to the air conditioning unit (10) over said wireless communication link (L1) created.

2. Device (30) according to claim 1, configured to periodically send a measurement of at least one parameter measured by at least one sensor (315) to the air conditioning unit (10) over said wireless communication link (L1).

3. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one parameter measured is temperature or pressure.

4. Device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, configured to send commands to the air conditioning unit (10) in order to control the operation of said air conditioning unit (10).

5. Device (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the controls are start or stop controls for the unit air conditioning (10), increasing or decreasing temperature, increasing or decreasing speed or airflow, changing mode or automatic winding or unwinding of the duct (20).

6. Device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, configured to receive from the air conditioning unit (10), via the wireless communication link (L1), an information or alert message and to respectively inform or alert the operator of said device (30).

7. Device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power supply module (320) is configured to be recharged on a charging support by electrical contact or by induction.

8. Device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (1) is integrated into the output end connector or into a rigid sleeve configured to be fitted between the sheath body and the connector.

9. Device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a geolocation module enabling its position to be located at any time.

10. Flexible aircraft air conditioning duct (20), said duct (20) comprising: - an inlet end (210) configured to be attached to an air outlet (110) of an aircraft air conditioning unit (10) (2), - an outlet end (220) comprising a connector configured to be connected to an air intake (2A) of an aircraft air conditioning unit (2), - a device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims mounted at said outlet end (220).

11. Aircraft air conditioning duct reel (2), said reel being configured to wind and unwind an aircraft air conditioning duct (20) and comprising a charging support configured to electrically recharge the power supply module (320) of a device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

12. Aircraft air conditioning unit (10) (2), configured to receive, over a wireless communication link (L1), a measurement of at least one parameter measured and sent by a device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and to regulate the measured parameter according to the measurement value received.

13. Air conditioning unit (10) according to the preceding claim, configured to receive the location of the device (30), sent by the device (30), to associate the device (30) with the aircraft (2) which is connected by a duct (20) to said air conditioning unit (10), to determine the type of said aircraft (2) and to adapt the air conditioning parameters of said aircraft (2) according to its determined type.

14. Aircraft (2) air conditioning system (1), said system (1) comprising an aircraft (2) air conditioning unit (10) according to the preceding claim, a duct (20) according to claim 8 and a device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

15. A method for the automated control of an aircraft (2) air conditioning unit (10) in a system (1) according to the preceding claim, said aircraft (2) being connected to the air conditioning unit (10) by the duct (20), said method comprising the steps of: - receiving an output signal provided by at least one sensor (315) of the device (30), - extracting at least one measurement of a parameter of the air flowing in the duct (20), - establishing a wireless communication link (L1) with the air conditioning unit (10), - sending, by the device (30), the at least one extracted measurement to the air conditioning unit (10) over said wireless communication link (L1) established, - receiving by the air conditioning unit (10) the at least one measurement, - regulating the air conditioning of the aircraft (2) by the air conditioning unit of air (10) depending on at least one measurement received.

16. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein the device (30) comprises a geolocation module (340) and the method further comprises the steps of: - determining the location of the device (30) by the geolocation module (340), - sending the determined location to the air conditioning unit (10), - receipt of the sent location data, - association of the device (30) with the aircraft (2), - determination of the type of said aircraft (2), - adaptation of the control and regulation of the aircraft air conditioning (2) according to the determined type.