Air curtain system and method for interior cabin of a vehicle

Abstract

To provide a system and a method for preventing, minimizing, or suppressing the spread of pathogens between passengers onboard a vehicle during a movement, such as between passengers in an internal cabin of an aircraft during a flight, without causing harm to the passengers.SOLUTION: A vehicle 104 includes an internal cabin 102, a first group of seats 112 in a first row within the internal cabin 102, a second group of seats 112 in a second row within the internal cabin 102, and an air curtain system 100 within the internal cabin 102. The air curtain system 100 is configured to form one or more air curtains 110 between one or both of (a) the first row and the second row or (b) adjacent seats 112 of one or both of the first group or the second group.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to air curtain systems and methods for use, for example, within the interior cabin of a vehicle.

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 047,284, filed July 2, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] Commercial aircraft and other vehicles are used to transport passengers from place to place. Many commercial vehicles, such as aircraft, are equipped with HEPA filters in their air conditioning systems, which can trap microorganisms and pathogens. HEPA filters receive and purify the air leaving and entering the cabin. HEPA filters and frequent cabin cleaning between flights are measures to protect the health of passengers and crew aboard aircraft. Some passengers may also wish to wear masks inside the interior cabin of the vehicle to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens. Summary of the Invention

[0004] What is needed are systems and methods for preventing, minimizing, or inhibiting the spread of pathogens between passengers in a moving vehicle, such as between passengers in the interior cabin of an aircraft in flight, without harming the passengers.

[0005] With this need in mind, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicle that includes an interior cabin, a first group of seats in a first row within the interior cabin, a second group of seats in a second row adjacent to the first row within the interior cabin, and an air curtain system within the interior cabin that is configured to form one or more air curtains between one or both of: (a) the first row and the second row; or (b) adjacent seats in one or both of the first group or the second group.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system includes one or more outlets that output the one or more air curtains. The one or more outlets may be located above the seat. Optionally, the one or more outlets may be located inside the seat.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system further includes an air flow generator configured to generate an air flow received by the one or more outlets, the air flow generator being housed within one or more of the seats.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system further includes one or more return ports for receiving the one or more air curtains. The one or more return ports may be located under the seat. Optionally, the one or more return ports may be located inside the seat.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system further includes a control unit configured to control the position of the one or more outlets in response to the position of the seat.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system further includes one or more light emitting devices configured to indicate the presence of the one or more air curtains by emitting light along at least a portion of the one or more air curtains.

[0011] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air curtain method for a vehicle having an interior cabin, a first group of seats in a first row within the interior cabin, and a second group of seats in a second row adjacent to the first row within the interior cabin, the air curtain method including forming, by an air curtain system within the interior cabin, one or more air curtains between one or both of: (a) the first row and the second row; or (b) adjacent seats in one or both of the first group or the second group. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an air curtain system within an interior cabin of a vehicle, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an air curtain between adjacent seats in an interior cabin according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an air curtain between adjacent rows in the interior cabin according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a first air curtain between adjacent seats within a row and a second air curtain between adjacent rows in an interior cabin according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is an interior perspective view of an interior cabin of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The above summary and the following detailed description of some embodiments will be more clearly understood with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, the use of the singular term "a" or "an" does not necessarily exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements or steps. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" are not intended to exclude the existence of other embodiments that incorporate the features described in that embodiment. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, an embodiment that "comprises" or "has" one element or elements having a particular characteristic may also include additional elements that do not have that characteristic.

[0014] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air curtain system and method within the interior cabin of a vehicle that is configured to create air curtains between seats and / or rows within the interior cabin to provide a more controlled air space.

[0015] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an air curtain system 100 in an interior cabin 102 of a vehicle 104, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The air curtain system 100 includes an air flow generator 106 configured to generate an air flow that is delivered through one or more outlets 108. The outlets 108 include one or more outlets, such as nozzles, configured to deliver the air flow from the air flow generator 106 as an air curtain 110 between seats 112 and / or rows 114 of seats 112. The air curtain 110 output from the outlets 108 passes between the seats 112 and / or rows 114 and is received by one or more return outlets 116 (including one or more inlet outlets, such as nozzles), which deliver the air flow back to the air flow generator 106 via one or more conduits 118, such as ducts.

[0016] The nozzle is sized and shaped to cover one seat 112 or a row 114 of seats 112. For example, an outlet 108 in the form of an elongated nozzle may be used that extends over a group of seats 112. As another example, an outlet 108 having a nozzle that extends over only one seat 112 may be used.

[0017] The airflow generator 106 may include one or more of a blower, a fan, a vacuum generator, etc. The airflow generator 106 is fixed within the interior cabin 102. For example, the airflow generator 106 may be located above the ceiling 120, behind a wall, within a compartment, etc. As another example, the airflow generator 106 may be located on or within one or more of the seats 112, such as above and / or behind a headrest, within a support base, etc. As another example, the airflow generator 106 may be or include an intake means provided in one or more passenger service units (PSUs) above the seats 112. A main air supply system of the vehicle 104 may include the airflow generator 106. As another example, the airflow generator 106 may be separate from the main air supply system of the vehicle 104. For example, the airflow generator 106 may be integrated into one or more of the seats 112. As another example, each seat 112 may include an airflow generator 106 .

[0018] The airflow generator 106 may draw air from within the interior cabin 102, for example. For example, the airflow generator 106 may draw air from the area near or surrounding the seated passengers. The airflow generator 106 may include one or more air filters that filter the airflow before it exits through the outlet 108. In at least one embodiment, the airflow generator 106 may increase the airflow by drawing air from both one or more of the PSUs and the seated passenger area. In at least one embodiment, the airflow generator 106 includes a fan that draws air from one or more of the PSUs and / or the seated passenger area. As a further example, intake air from and near the seated passenger area may be positioned to, for example, expand the protected area or to position the air curtain 110 as desired.

[0019] The outlets 108 may be fixed to the ceiling 120 above the seats 112, for example. As another example, the outlets 108 may be located in one or more of the seats 112. For example, one or more of the outlets 108 may be located in or near a portion of a headrest, such as a side of the headrest. As another example, the outlets 108 may be located in one or more PSUs.

[0020] The outlet 108 is sized and shaped to achieve a desired size and / or shape of the air curtain 110. In at least one embodiment, the outlet 108 can include a gasper having one or more slits configured to shape the air curtain 110.

[0021] The return port 116 has the same or similar size and shape as the outlet port 108 and is configured to receive and capture the air curtain 110 output by the outlet port 108. The return port 116 is located beneath the seat 112, for example, on or within a floor 122 supporting the seat 112. As another example, the return port 116 may be located below the seat 112, for example, under a seat pan. The conduit 118 connects to the air flow generator 106, for example, by passing beneath the floor 122 and behind a wall. The return port 116 facilitates the return of the air flow of the air curtain 110 back to the air flow generator 106. Alternatively, the air curtain system 100 does not include the return port 116.

[0022] The outlets 108 (e.g., air outlets) and return ports 116 (e.g., air inlets) are positioned relative to the seat 112 such that they adjust in response to whether the seat is upright or reclined. For example, the outlets 108 and return ports 116 are coupled to one or more actuators 109 and 117 (e.g., motors) that adjust the positions (e.g., angular positions) of the outlets 108 and return ports 116, respectively, in response to the reclining position of the seat 112. For example, the actuators 109 and 117 are configured to adjust the angular positions of the outlets 108 and / or return ports 116 themselves, or portions thereof, such as louvers, slats, etc. The positions of the outlets 108 and return ports 116 may be adjusted manually or automatically, such as by a control unit 124 located within the interior cabin 102.

[0023] For example, in at least one embodiment, the control unit 124 is in communication with the actuators 109 and 117 and / or position sensors of the seats 112 via one or more wired or wireless connections. The control unit 124 detects the position of the seats 112 using the position sensors and adjusts the positions of the outlets 108 and return vents 116 using the actuators 109 and 117 in response to the detected position of the seats 112. The control unit 124 may also be in communication with the air flow generators 106, for example, via one or more wired or wireless connections. The control unit 124 controls the positions of the air flow generators 106 and the outlets 108 and return vents 116 based on the position of the seats 112 to ensure that the air curtains 110 are positioned between the seats 112 and / or between the rows 114.

[0024] In at least one other embodiment, outlet 109 and / or return port 117 may be fixed in position rather than movable. To provide the widest coverage of air curtain 110, outlet 109 may be positioned above and behind the reclined seat 112, and return port 116 may be positioned forward of outlet 108. In this manner, air curtain 110 may be angled from outlet 108 toward return port 116.

[0025] Air curtains 110 generated between seats 112 and / or rows 114 of seats 112 prevent the transmission of pathogens between passengers within the interior cabin. The air curtains 110 form an air barrier that prevents or inhibits air movement between seats 112 and / or rows 114. In at least one embodiment, air curtains 110 are formed between rows 114 to inhibit the flow of air back and forth between those rows.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, inflatable curtains 110 are formed not only between adjacent rows 114, but also between seats 112 within a row 114. For example, a first inflatable curtain 110 between rows 114 is perpendicular to a second inflatable curtain 110 between adjacent seats 112. In this manner, a individually formed inflatable curtain barrier or bubble can be placed around each passenger in a seat 112.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain 110 is deployed from above the seats 112 to below the seats 112. For example, the air curtain 110 travels from above the seats to below the seats 112. Alternatively, the air curtain 110 may travel from below the seats 112 to above the seats 112. For example, the outlets 108 may be located at the back or top of each seat 112 (or row 114 of seats 112) to deploy the air curtain 110 upward toward a return outlet 116, for example, in the ceiling 120.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain 110 is formed, for example, continuously. As another example, the air curtain 110 may be selectively activated and deactivated manually using a user interface in communication with the control unit 122 and / or automatically by the control unit 122.

[0029] In at least one embodiment, the air curtain system 100 includes a visual indication of the presence of the air curtain 110. For example, one or more light-emitting devices 111 (e.g., light-emitting diodes (LEDs), colored or filtered incandescent bulbs, etc.) can be embedded in or near (e.g., within 1-2 inches) the outlet 108 and / or return 116 to simultaneously form a visual light curtain to indicate the presence of the air curtain 110 to passengers. Alternatively, the air curtain 110 may include particles, such as mist, to indicate the presence of the air curtain 110. The light-emitting devices 111 may be configured to emit directional light along the air curtain 110 to indicate to passengers that they are protected by the air curtain. In at least one embodiment, the light-emitting devices 111 may emit colored light in one or more columns or sheets along the air curtain 110 to more clearly indicate the presence of the air curtain 110. The light-emitting devices 111 may be activated only when the air curtain 110 is formed. For example, the control unit 124 may activate the light emitting device 111 only when the air curtain 110 is being formed. The light emitting device 111 may emit light continuously or at intervals (e.g., every 5-10 minutes) while the air curtain 110 is being formed. The light emitting device 111 may include a projector or masking structure to help focus the light along the air curtain 110.

[0030] As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicle 104 having an interior cabin 102. Seats 112 are arranged in rows 114 within the interior cabin 102. Outlets 108 output one or more air curtains 110 between adjacent seats 112 and / or adjacent rows 114 of seats 112. One or more air curtains 110 may also be formed between seats 112 separated by an aisle within the interior cabin 102.

[0031] As described above, air curtains 110 may be formed, for example, between adjacent rows 114 and / or adjacent seats 112 to form an air barrier between the rows 114 and / or seats 112. In at least one embodiment, air curtains 110 may be used to form groups of seats 112 that are separated from one another by a barrier made up of multiple air curtains 110. For example, certain sections of the interior cabin 102 may be separated from one another by air curtains 110. Specifically, multiple rows 114 of seats 112 may be surrounded by air curtains 110, with no additional air curtains 110 within the surrounded area.

[0032] The air system within the vehicle 104 may be operated to recirculate air at predetermined times within various areas separated by air curtains 110. For example, a first group of seats 112 (which may be within one row 114 or multiple rows) may be surrounded by air curtains 110. Air may then be recirculated within this surrounded area at predetermined times, such as every 2-5 minutes.

[0033] The vehicle 104 includes an interior cabin 102. A first group of seats 112 are located in a first row 114 within the interior cabin 102. A second group of seats 112 are located in a second row 114 within the interior cabin 102. The first row is adjacent to the second row (i.e., the first row is immediately next to the second row). An air curtain system 100 is located within the interior cabin 102 and is configured to form one or more air curtains 110 between one or both of: (a) the first and second rows (i.e., between the adjacent rows), or (b) adjacent seats in one or both of the first or second groups (i.e., between adjacent seats).

[0034] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air curtain method for a vehicle 104 having an interior cabin 102, a first group of seats 112 in a first row 114 within the interior cabin 102, and a second group of seats 112 in a second row 114 within the interior cabin 102. The first row is adjacent to a second row. The air curtain method includes forming, with an air curtain system 100 within the interior cabin 102, one or more air curtains 110 (a) between the first and second rows, or (b) between adjacent seats 112 in either or both of the first or second groups.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the forming includes outputting one or more air curtains 110 through one or more outlets 108. The method may further include disposing the one or more outlets 108 above a seat 112. Optionally, the method may include disposing the one or more outlets 108 within the seat 112.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, the forming further includes generating, with an airflow generator 106, an airflow received by one or more outlets 108. The method may also include housing the airflow generator 106 in one or more of the seats 112.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the method also includes receiving the one or more air curtains 110 through one or more return ports 116 of the air curtain system 100. The method may further include disposing the one or more return ports 116 under the seat 112. Optionally, the method may further include disposing the one or more return ports 116 inside the seat 112.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, the method may also include controlling, by the control unit 124 , the position of the one or more outlets 108 in response to the position of the seat 112 .

[0039] In at least one embodiment, the method may also include indicating the presence of one or more air curtains 110 by emitting light along at least a portion of the one or more air curtains 110 with one or more light emitting devices 111.

[0040] As used herein, terms such as "control unit," "central processing unit," "CPU," "computer," and the like may include any processor- or microprocessor-based system. Such systems include systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), logic circuits, and other circuits or processors, including hardware, software, or combinations thereof, capable of performing the functions described herein. These terms are merely examples and are not intended to limit the definition and / or meaning of these terms in any way. For example, control unit 124 may include one or more processors configured to control the operation of airflow generator 106 and / or actuators 109 and 117 as described herein.

[0041] The control unit 124 is configured to execute a set of instructions stored in one or more data storage devices or elements (e.g., one or more memories) to process data. For example, the control unit 124 may include or be connected to one or more memories. The data storage devices may also store data or other information as desired or needed. The data storage devices may be in the form of information sources or physical memory elements within a processing machine.

[0042] The set of instructions may include various commands that instruct the control unit 124 as a processing machine to perform specific operations, such as the methods and processes of various embodiments of the subject matter described herein. The set of instructions may be in the form of a software program. The software may take various forms, such as system software or application software. Furthermore, the software may take the form of a collection of individual programs, a subset of a program within a larger program, or a portion of a program. The software may also include modular programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The processing of input data by the processing machine may be in response to user commands, in response to results of previous processing, or in response to a request from another processing machine.

[0043] The drawings of the embodiments herein illustrate one or more control or processing units, such as control unit 124. Note that a processing or control unit represents a circuit, circuitry, or portion thereof, which may be implemented as hardware with associated instructions (e.g., software stored on a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as a computer hard drive, ROM, RAM, etc.) that perform the operations described herein. The hardware may include state machine circuitry embedded in the hardware to perform the functions described herein. Optionally, the hardware may include electronic circuitry containing and / or coupled to one or more logic-based devices, such as a microprocessor, processor, controller, etc. Optionally, control unit 124 may represent processing circuitry comprised of one or more of, for example, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microprocessor, etc. The circuitry in various embodiments may be configured to execute one or more algorithms to perform the functions described herein. The one or more algorithms, whether or not explicitly depicted in a flowchart or method, may include aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0044] As used herein, "software" and "firmware" are synonymous and include any computer program stored in a data storage device (e.g., one or more memories) for execution by a computer, examples of which include RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The above types of data storage devices are merely exemplary and do not limit the types of memory that may be used to store computer programs.

[0045] 2 is a plan view of an air curtain 110a between adjacent seats 112 in the interior cabin 102, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The seats 112 belong to a group in a row 114. According to FIGS. 1 and 2, in at least one embodiment, one or more of the outlets 108 are configured to output an air curtain 110a between the adjacent seats 112.

[0046] 3 is a plan view of an air curtain 110b between adjacent rows 114a and 114b in the interior cabin 102, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The seats 112 in the first row 114a belong to a first group, and the seats 112 in the second row 114b belong to a second group. The first row 114a is adjacent to the second row 114b. According to FIGS. 1 and 3, in at least one embodiment, one or more of the outlets 108 are configured to output the air curtain 110b between the adjacent rows 114a and 114b.

[0047] 4 is a plan view of a first inflatable curtain 110a between adjacent seats 112 in rows 114a and 114b and a second inflatable curtain 110b between adjacent rows 114a and 114b in interior cabin 102, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, first inflatable curtain 110a is perpendicular to second inflatable curtain 110b, for example. According to FIGS. 1 and 4, in at least one embodiment, one or more of outlets 108 are configured to output inflatable curtain 110a between adjacent seats 112 and inflatable curtain 110b between adjacent rows 114a and 114b.

[0048] 5 is a front perspective view of an aircraft 210 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 210 is an example of the vehicle 104 shown in FIG. 1. The aircraft 210 includes a propulsion system 212, which may include, for example, engines 214. Optionally, the propulsion system 212 may include more engines 214 than shown in the illustrated example. The engines 214 are mounted on wings 216 of the aircraft 210. In other embodiments, the engines 214 may be mounted on a fuselage 218 and / or a tail section 220. The tail section 220 may also support a horizontal stabilizer 222 and a vertical stabilizer 224.

[0049] The fuselage 218 of the aircraft 210 defines an interior cabin 230 (such as the interior cabin 102 shown in FIG. 1 ), which may include a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (e.g., a galley, a staff carry-on baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger sections (e.g., first class, business class, economy section), one or more restrooms, etc.

[0050] Alternatively, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with various other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives, railroad cars, ships, spacecraft, etc. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with fixed structures, such as commercial or residential buildings.

[0051] FIG. 6A is a plan view of an interior cabin 230 of an aircraft in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 230 is located within a fuselage 232 of an aircraft, such as the fuselage 218 of FIG. 5 . For example, one or more fuselage walls define the interior cabin 230. The interior cabin 230 includes multiple sections, such as a forward section 233, a first class section 234, a business class section 236, a forward galley station 238, a premium economy section 240, a standard economy section 242, and an aft section 244, which may include multiple lavatories and galley stations. Note that the interior cabin 230 may include more or fewer sections than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 may not include a first class section or may have more or fewer galley stations than shown. These sections are separated by, for example, a cabin separation area 246, which may include a class divider assembly between aisles 248.

[0052] 6A, the interior cabin 230 includes two passageways 250 and 252 that connect to the aft section 244. Optionally, the interior cabin 230 may have more or fewer passageways than shown. For example, the interior cabin 230 may include only one passageway that runs through the center of the interior cabin 230 and connects to the aft section 244.

[0053] The passageways 248, 250, and 252 extend to an escape route or doorway 260. Exit doors 262 are provided at both ends of the escape route 260. The escape route 260 is, for example, perpendicular to the passageways 248, 250, and 252. The interior cabin 230 may have additional escape routes 260 in locations other than those shown. The air curtain system 100 shown and described in Figures 1-4 may be used within the interior cabin 230.

[0054] 6B is a plan view of an interior cabin 280 of an aircraft in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Interior cabin 280 is an example of interior cabin 230 shown in FIG. 5. Interior cabin 280 is located, for example, within fuselage 281 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls define interior cabin 280. Interior cabin 280 includes multiple sections, such as main cabin 282 having passenger seats 283 and aft section 285 aft of main cabin 282. Note that interior cabin 280 may include more or fewer sections than shown.

[0055] For example, the interior cabin 280 may include a single passageway 284 that connects to the aft section 285. The single passageway 284 may, for example, extend through the center of the interior cabin 280 and connect to the aft section 285. For example, the single passageway 284 may be coaxial with a central longitudinal plane of the interior cabin 280.

[0056] The passageway 284 extends to an escape route or doorway 290. Exit doors 292 are provided at both ends of the escape route 290. The escape route 290 is, for example, perpendicular to the passageway 284. The interior cabin 280 may have additional escape routes in addition to those shown. The air curtain system 100 shown and described in Figures 1-4 may be used within the interior cabin 280.

[0057] FIG. 7 is an interior perspective view of an aircraft interior cabin 300 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Interior cabin 300 is an example of interior cabin 102 shown in FIG. 1 . Interior cabin 300 includes an outboard wall 302 that connects to a ceiling 304. Outboard wall 302 may include, for example, windows 306. Floor 308 supports rows of seats 310. As shown in FIG. 7 , one row 312 may include, for example, two seats 310 on each side of aisle 313. However, row 312 may include more or fewer seats 310 than shown. Additionally, interior cabin 300 may include more aisles than shown.

[0058] PSUs 314 are fixed between the outboard walls 302 and the ceiling 304 on either side of the aisle 313. The PSUs 314 are provided across the interior cabin 300 from the forward end to the aft end. For example, one PSU 314 is located above each seat 310 in a row 312. Each PSU 314 has a housing 316 that houses the air vents, reading lights, oxygen tank drop panels, crew request buttons, and other controls typically located above each seat 310 (or group of seats) in the row 312.

[0059] The overhead bin assemblies 318 are fixed to the ceiling 304 and / or the outboard wall 302 on both sides of the aisle 313, above and inboard of the PSU 314. The overhead bin assemblies 318 are fixed above the seats 310. The overhead bin assemblies 318 are provided across the interior cabin 300 between the forward and aft ends. Each bin assembly 318 may include a pivoting box or container 320 pivotally secured to the strongback. The overhead bin assemblies 318 are located, for example, above and inboard of the underside of the PSU 314. The overhead bin assemblies 318 are configured to pivot open, for example, to allow passengers to place their baggage or personal belongings inside.

[0060] As used herein, the term "outboard" refers to a position that is farther from the central longitudinal plane 322 of the interior cabin 300 than another component. Additionally, the term "inboard" refers to a position that is closer to the central longitudinal plane 322 of the interior cabin 300 than another component. For example, the lower surface of the PSU 314 is located outboard relative to the storage shelf assembly 318.

[0061] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes examples according to the following appendices.

[0062] Appendix 1. Interior cabin (102) and a first group of seats (112) in a first row within the interior cabin (102); a second group of seats (112) in a second row adjacent to the first row in the interior cabin (102); and an air curtain system (100) within the interior cabin (102), the air curtain system (100) configured to form one or more air curtains (110) in one or both of: (a) between the first row and the second row; or (b) between adjacent seats (112) in one or both of the first group or the second group.

[0063] Appendix 2. The vehicle (104) of Appendix 1, wherein the air curtain system (100) includes one or more outlets (108) that output the one or more air curtains (110).

[0064] Appendix 3. The vehicle (104) of Appendix 2, wherein the one or more outlets (108) are located above the seat (112).

[0065] Appendix 4. The vehicle (104) of Appendix 2 or 3, wherein the one or more outlets (108) are located inside the seat (112).

[0066] Appendix 5. A vehicle (104) according to any one of appendices 2 to 4, wherein the air curtain system (100) further includes an air flow generator (106) that generates an air flow received by the one or more outlets (108).

[0067] Clause 6. The vehicle (104) of clause 5, wherein the airflow generator (106) is housed within one or more of the seats (112).

[0068] Appendix 7. A vehicle (104) according to any one of appendices 2 to 6, wherein the air curtain system (100) further includes one or more return ports (116) for receiving the one or more air curtains (110).

[0069] Appendix 8. The vehicle (104) of Appendix 7, wherein the one or more return ports (116) are located below the seat (112).

[0070] Appendix 9. The vehicle (104) of Appendix 7 or 8, wherein the one or more return ports (116) are located inside the seat (112).

[0071] Appendix 10. A vehicle (104) according to any one of appendices 2 to 9, wherein the air curtain system (100) further includes a control unit (124) configured to control the position of the one or more outlets (108) in response to the position of the seat (112).

[0072] Appendix 11. A vehicle (104) according to any one of appendices 2 to 9, wherein the air curtain system (100) further includes one or more light-emitting devices (111) configured to emit light along at least a portion of the one or more air curtains (110) to indicate the presence of the one or more air curtains (110).

[0073] Appendix 12. An air curtain method for a vehicle (104) having an interior cabin (102), a first group of seats (112) in a first row within the interior cabin (102), and a second group of seats (112) in a second row adjacent to the first row within the interior cabin (102), comprising: forming, by an air curtain system (100) within the interior cabin (102), one or more air curtains (110) between one or both of: (a) the first row and the second row; or (b) adjacent seats (112) in one or both of the first group or the second group.

[0074] Appendix 13. The air curtain method of Appendix 12, wherein the forming includes outputting the one or more air curtains (110) through one or more outlets (108).

[0075] Clause 14. The air curtain method of clause 13, further comprising positioning the one or more outlets (108) above the seat (112).

[0076] Appendix 15. The air curtain method of appendix 13 or 14, further comprising positioning the one or more outlets (108) inside the seat (112).

[0077] Appendix 16. The air curtain method of any one of Appendixes 13 to 15, wherein the forming further comprises generating an air flow by an air flow generator (106) that is received by the one or more outlets (108).

[0078] Clause 17. The air curtain method of clause 16, further comprising housing the air flow generator (106) within one or more of the seats (112).

[0079] Appendix 18. The air curtain method of any one of Appendixes 13 to 17, further comprising receiving the one or more air curtains (110) by one or more return ports (116) of the air curtain system (100).

[0080] Clause 19. The air curtain method of clause 18, further comprising positioning the one or more return ports (116) under the seat (112).

[0081] Appendix 20. The air curtain method of appendix 18 or 19, further comprising positioning the one or more return ports (116) inside the seat (112).

[0082] Appendix 21. The air curtain method of any one of Appendixes 13 to 20, further comprising controlling the position of the one or more outlets (108) by a control unit (124) in response to the position of the seat (112).

[0083] Appendix 22. The air curtain method of any one of appendices 13 to 21, further comprising indicating the presence of the one or more air curtains (110) by emitting light along at least a portion of the one or more air curtains (110) with one or more light emitting devices (111).

[0084] Appendix 23. Interior cabin (102) and a first group of seats (112) in a first row within the interior cabin (102); a second group of seats (112) in a second row adjacent to the first row in the interior cabin (102); an air curtain system (100) within the interior cabin (102), the air curtain system (100) configured to form one or more air curtains (110) in one or both of: (a) between the first row and the second row; or (b) between adjacent seats (112) in one or both of the first group or the second group; the air curtain system (100) comprising: one or more outlets (108) for outputting said one or more air curtains (110); an air flow generator (106) for generating an air flow received by the one or more outlets (108); one or more return ports (116) for receiving said one or more air curtains (110); a control unit (124) configured to control the position of one or both of the one or more outlets (108) or the one or more return ports (116) in response to the position of the seat (112); and one or more light-emitting devices (111) configured to emit light along at least a portion of the one or more air curtains (110) to indicate the presence of the one or more air curtains (110).

[0085] As described herein, the air curtain systems and methods are configured to reduce the spread of pathogens between passengers in a vehicle during travel by forming air curtains between adjacent rows or seats and / or between adjacent seats within a row.

[0086] In describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, center, side, horizontal, vertical, and front, are used only in relation to the orientation shown in the drawings. These orientations can be changed by inverting, rotating, etc., so that top becomes bottom or vice versa, or horizontal becomes vertical or vice versa.

[0087] In this disclosure, a structure, limitation, or element that is "configured to" perform a process or operation is one that is structurally formed, configured, or adapted in a manner corresponding to that process or operation. For clarity and avoidance of doubt, something that can merely be modified to perform that process or operation does not qualify as "configured to" perform that process or operation.

[0088] In this specification, modifiers such as "about," "substantially," and "approximately" inserted before a numerical value indicate that the value may also represent other values within a given threshold range higher and / or lower than the specified value, such as within 5%, 10%, or 15% of the specified value.

[0089] It should be noted that the above description is illustrative and not limiting. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt these teachings to a particular situation or material without departing from the scope of the various embodiments. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to clarify parameters of various embodiments of the present disclosure, these embodiments are not intended to be limiting and are merely exemplary. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the above description. Accordingly, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used merely as labels and do not impose numerical requirements on the objects they refer to.

[0090] This description uses examples to disclose various embodiments, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice various embodiments of the present disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing the incorporated methods. The patentable scope of various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples should be considered within the scope of the claims if they have elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent elements that have only insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. The interior cabin and a first group of seats in a first row within the interior cabin; a second group of seats in a second row adjacent to the first row within the interior cabin; an air curtain system within the interior cabin, the air curtain system configured to form one or more air curtains between one or both of: (a) the first row and the second row; or (b) adjacent seats in one or both of the first group or the second group; The vehicle, wherein the air curtain system further includes one or more light emitting devices configured to operate in conjunction with the formation of the one or more air curtains to indicate the presence of the one or more air curtains by emitting light along at least a portion of the one or more air curtains.

2. The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the air curtain system includes one or more outlets that output the one or more air curtains.

3. The vehicle of claim 2 , wherein the one or more outlets are located above the seat.

4. 4. A vehicle as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein the one or more outlets are located inside the seat.

5. The vehicle of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the air curtain system further comprises an air flow generator that generates an air flow received by the one or more outlets.

6. 6. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein the airflow generator is housed within one or more of the seats.

7. The vehicle of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the air curtain system further comprises one or more return ports for receiving the one or more air curtains.

8. 8. The vehicle of claim 7, wherein the one or more return ports are located under the seat.

9. 9. A vehicle according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the one or more return ports are located inside the seat.

10. An internal cabin; a first group of seats in a first row within the interior cabin; a second group of seats in a second row adjacent to the first row within the interior cabin; an air curtain system disposed within the interior cabin separately from the first and second groups of seats, the air curtain system configured to form one or more air curtains between one or both of: (a) the first and second rows; or (b) adjacent seats in one or both of the first and second groups; the air curtain system includes one or more outlets for outputting the one or more air curtains and one or more return ports for receiving the one or more air curtains; The vehicle, wherein the air curtain system further includes a control unit configured to control the position of the one or more outlets and the one or more return vents in response to a position of the seat.

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