Compartment for charging electronic device

Abstract

The invention relates to a charging compartment designed for use in transportation vehicles to charge personal electronic devices (PEDs) safely and efficiently. It features a cooling connection that links to a chilled area within the vehicle, allowing heat to be passively evacuated from the charging compartment. This design reduces the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards without the need for complex machinery or active cooling systems like fans or compressors.

Description

Compartment for charging electronic deviceTechnical field

[0001] The invention relates to a compartment for charging at least one personal electronic device, for use onboard transportation vehicle. The invention also relates to a monument within a transportation vehicle and to a transportation vehicle.Prior art

[0002] In the evolving landscape of transportation vehicles, such as aircrafts, safety agencies and manufacturers are increasingly challenged by the growing use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) and the need to accommodate their charging within the transportation environment. This challenge is particularly pronounced in areas such as the galley, lavatory, and stowage compartments, where PEDs may be left unattended for extended periods. The risk of fire is heightened when these devices are exposed to heat, especially in galley areas, which often contain various heat-generating equipment such as ovens, coffee makers, and steamers. Placing electronic devices near these heat sources can lead to overheating, potentially damaging the device’s battery or internal components. Heat exposure can also reduce the lifespan of the battery and degrade the overall performance of the device. Traditional approaches for preventing overheating typically involve cooling systems like fans. However, these solutions often produce noise, which can be disruptive in a transportation environment where quiet operation is critical. There is therefore a need to develop an improved solution for charging electronic device(s).Disclosure of the invention

[0003] An objective of the invention is to provide an effective, simple and energyefficient solution to deal with heat exposure and overheating of the personal electronic device(s).

[0004] The invention relates to a charging compartment for charging at least one personal electronic device, for use onboard a transportation vehicle, the compartment comprising :- an inner space suitable for receiving at least one personal electronic device,- at least one electrical insert for charging the personal electronic device,- a cooling connection for thermally connecting the charging compartment to a chilled area in order to evacuate heat from the charging compartment.

[0005] The invention offers several advantages. Indeed, the invention is simple since it does not require any complex machinery or active cooling systems, such as fans or compressors, which can be prone to mechanical failure. Instead, it uses a simple, passive method to transfer heat away from the charging compartment where the electronic device is being charged, relying on the already available chilled environment. Further, thanks to the cooling connection, the invention actively manages and dissipates heat generated inside the compartment. This significantly reduces the risk of overheating and potential fires, making it a highly effective solution for fire prevention. Moreover, the cooling connection uses a passive thermal connection to a chilled area, eliminating the need for additional energyconsuming cooling systems. This energy-free approach is not only environmentally friendly but also reduces the overall energy consumption of the transportation vehicle, making the solution more sustainable and cost-effective.

[0006] In the context of the invention, when referring to the expression "evacuate heat," it specifically implies a passive method of heat removal. This means that the process uses natural thermal dynamics to transfer heat from a warmer area (the charging compartment) to a cooler area (the chilled area).

[0007] In one embodiment, the charging compartment further comprises one or more doors to close the inner space and for access to it. Advantageously, closed doors can maintain a controlled environment inside the compartment, which is critical for effective thermal management and protection of PEDs from environmental factors like humidity, dust, and theft.

[0008] In one embodiment, the charging compartment further comprises a support for positioning the personal electronic device. This support aids in optimally positioning the devices to maximize heat transfer during the charging process, which is crucial in preventing overheating.

[0009] In one embodiment, the cooling connection is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment to a chilled compartment.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally, the cooling connection is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment to a water and waste system of the transportation vehicle. The water and waste system in the context of a transportation vehicle (such as an aircraft, train, or ship) refers to the infrastructure responsible for managing both water supply and waste disposal. On one side, it includes systems that supply potable water for activities like drinking, cooking, and sanitation. On the other side, it handles the collection and disposal of waste, including sewage from toilets and wastewater (graywater) from sinks and showers. Advantageously, the water and waste system is repurposed as a chilled area. Since this system usually contain water or fluids, it can be used to absorb and transfer heat away from the charging compartment, helping prevent overheating without needing extra cooling equipment.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, the cooling connection is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment to an air conditioning system of the transportation vehicle. The air conditioning system is responsible for maintaining a controlled and comfortable temperature within the transportation vehicle by regulating airflow and cooling the environment. By connecting the charging compartment to this system, the heat generated can be effectively transferred and dissipated through the vehicle’s existing climate control infrastructure. The air conditioning system may include air gasper, fresh air, and extraction air systems, each contributing to the efficient management of airflow and temperature control within the transportation vehicle.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, the cooling connection is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment to a Peltier chiller. Indeed, the Peltier chiller acts as a chilled area by using thermoelectric cooling to transfer heat away from PEDs. When connected to the charging compartment, the Peltier chiller absorbs the heat generated during the charging process and dissipates it to a cooler side, effectively lowering the temperature inside the charging compartment.

[0013] In one embodiment, the cooling connection comprises a heat pipe and / or a vapor chamber, each containing a coolant suitable for flowing passively between a hot and a cold areas. Indeed, heat pipes or vapor chambers work on the principle of phase change and thermal conduction. They contain a coolant that, when heated, vaporizes at the hot interface (for example, near the charging compartment). This vapor then travels to the cold interface (for example, near the chilled area), where it condenses, releasing latent heat. Advantageously, heat pipes or vapors chambers have an effective thermal conductivity many times greater than that of copper. This makes them highly effective in transferring heat over relatively long distances with minimal temperature drop. Advantageously, heat pipes can be designed in various shapes and sizes, which allows them to be integrated into various parts of the transportation vehicle, fitting into the specific spatial configurations of different compartments.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, the cooling connection comprises a thermal conductive plate. Thermal conductive plates work by directly transferring heat through the material of the plate from the source (the charging compartment) to a heat sink (the chilled area). This direct path facilitates efficient heat dissipation. The design involves a solid plate made from a highly conductive material, such as aluminum or copper, which can be easily fitted into the structure of the vehicle without complex alterations. Advantageously, The use of a simple conductive plate is typically less complex and less costly compared to other cooling methods like heat pipes. This can make the system easier to install and maintain.

[0015] In one embodiment, the cooling connection further comprises at least one heat exchanger coupled to the heat pipe, the heat exchanger being adapted to be thermally coupled to either the charging compartment or the chilled area. Indeed, the heat exchanger could be connected to the charging compartment, where it absorbs excess heat, or to the chilled area, where it transfers the absorbed heat. Advantageously, thanks to the heat exchanger, the heat pipe can more effectively manage the thermal gradient, improving the overall cooling efficiency. Heat can thus be more rapidly absorbed from the charging compartment or dissipated into thechilled area. Preferably, the heat exchanger is a vapor chamber for more efficient heat exchange.

[0016] In one embodiment, the compartment is removable. Removable compartments allow for flexibility in how space is used within the vehicle. For example, during short trips where fewer PEDs need charging, compartments can be removed to provide more space for other uses.

[0017] The invention further relates to a monument of a transportation vehicle with a charging compartment of any one of the preceding embodiments, the monument being preferably a galley, lavatory or stowage. The invention further relates to a transportation vehicle with such a monument, the vehicle being preferably an aircraft.Brief description of the figures

[0018] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the following detailed description, for the understanding of which, it is referred to the attached figures where:- Figure 1 illustrates a charging compartment comprising a cooling connection;- Figure 2 illustrates a charging compartment wherein the cooling connection comprises a heat pipe;- Figure 3 illustrates a charging compartment wherein the cooling connection further comprises heat exchangers.

[0019] The drawings in the figures are not scaled. Similar elements can be assigned by similar references in the figures. In the framework of the present document, identical or analogous elements may have the same references. The presence of reference numbers in the drawings cannot be considered to be limiting, in particular if these numbers are indicated in the claims.Description of specific embodiments of the invention

[0020] Description of preferred embodiments of the present invention are hereafter described with references to figures, but the invention is not limited by thesereferences. In particular, the drawings or figures described below are only schematic and are not limiting in any way.

[0021] Figure 1 illustrates a charging compartment 10 designed for charging at least one personal electronic device (PED) 1 1 onboard transportation vehicles. This compartment 10 features an inner space 12 specifically designed to accommodate one or more PEDs. The inner space 12 is configured to securely hold the device 11 during charging, minimizing any movement that could damage the device or interrupt the charging process. To provide power to the device, the compartment 10 is equipped with an electrical insert 13 that ensures a stable and secure connection between the PED 11 and the onboard charging system. This electrical insert 13 can be strategically positioned to allow easy access while ensuring maximum charging efficiency.

[0022] To manage the heat generated during charging, the charging compartment 10 is equipped with a cooling connection 16. This cooling connection 16 links thermally the charging compartment 10 to preferably a chilled compartment 20, which is designed to evacuate heat from the charging compartment 10. The cooling connection 16 operates by transferring the heat accumulated within the charging compartment 10 to the adjacent chilled compartment 20, where it is effectively dissipated.

[0023] Preferably, the cooling connection 16 is made of highly conductive materials such as copper or aluminum, serves as a pathway for heat to move from the charging compartment 10 to the chilled compartment 20. This cooling connection 16 could take the form of heat pipes, thermal pads, or metal conduits that are in thermal contact with both the charging compartment 10 and the chilled compartment 20. As heat is generated, it is absorbed by the cooling connection 16. Due to the high thermal conductivity of the materials used, the heat quickly travels along the connection 16 away from the heat source (the charging device) towards the cooler area of the chilled compartment. This process of conduction is efficient and silent, ensuring that the heat is effectively transferred without the need for noisy fans or other mechanical cooling devices. Once the heat reaches the chilled compartment 20, it is dissipated into the cooler environment. The chilledcompartment 20 is typically connected to a refrigeration system or is part of a larger cooling infrastructure within the vehicle, such as an air conditioning system. This system allows for the constant absorption of heat from the charging compartment 10.

[0024] In the context of an aircraft, galleys are typically equipped with chilled compartments 20 designed to store perishable food items. These compartments 20 could be adapted to provide cooling for PED charging compartments 10. The existing refrigeration infrastructure in galleys, which maintains low temperatures for food safety, can be leveraged to dissipate heat from charging compartments 10 placed nearby, preventing overheating of the PEDs 11 . This ensures that even during prolonged operation or in environments with high ambient temperatures, the PEDs 11 are kept at optimal operating conditions.

[0025] Figure 2 illustrates a view of a charging compartment 10 comprising a cooling connection 16 that incorporates, preferably, a heat pipe 17. The heat pipe 17 is designed to passively manage the transfer of heat from the charging compartment 10 to an adjacent chilled compartment 20. The heat pipe 17 within the cooling connection 16 contains a specialized coolant that operates based on phase change principles. As the PEDs 1 1 generate heat during charging, this heat is absorbed by the heat pipe. The coolant inside the heat pipe 16 evaporates upon absorbing the heat, transforming from liquid to vapor. This vapor then travels naturally along the heat pipe towards the cooler section located within the chilled compartment 20.

[0026] In the chilled compartment 20, the vapor cools and condenses back into a liquid form. The condensed coolant is then returned to the charging compartment 10 by capillary action or gravity, depending on the orientation of the heat pipe 17. This continuous cycle of evaporation and condensation within the heat pipe ensures a consistent and efficient transfer of heat away from the charging compartment 10, maintaining a stable temperature and preventing overheating.

[0027] Several types of coolants are commonly used. For example, water-glycol mixtures are widely utilized due to their excellent thermal conductivity and freeze protection, or Polyalphaolefin (PAO), a synthetic oil, which is favored for itsremarkable thermal stability across a wide temperature range, as well as its low volatility and non-toxicity.

[0028] The design of the heat pipe 17 is crucial for this process. It is made from highly conductive materials, such as copper or aluminum, which facilitate rapid heat transfer. The internal structure of the heat pipe, often lined with a wick or other capillary structure, ensures the coolant returns smoothly to the heated end after condensing, thereby maintaining the cooling cycle without the need for external energy input.

[0029] In a typical setup illustrated in figure 2, the charging compartments 10 are situated above the chilled compartments 20, forming a vertically aligned system that facilitates the efficient transfer of heat from the charging areas to the cooling zones below. The charging compartments 10, located at the top of the structure, are designated for housing PEDs during the charging process. These compartments 10 are directly exposed to the heat generated by the PEDs, making them the primary source of thermal energy that needs to be managed. The chilled compartments 20, positioned beneath the charging compartments 10, serve as the cooling reservoirs where excess heat is dissipated. The close vertical alignment of these compartments enhances the efficiency of heat transfer, utilizing gravity to assist in the downward flow of heat via the heat pipe 17.

[0030] As illustrated in figure 2, the heat pipe 17 can run vertically along the left side of the structure and then horizontally across the middle section along the chilled compartments 20. This ensures that it effectively draws heat away from the charging compartments 10 and delivers it to the lower, cooler regions into the chilled compartments 20 where it can be dissipated efficiently.

[0031] Thus, the heat pipe 17 can be routed vertically or horizontally through existing or newly created pathways 9 within the structure that separates the charging and chilled compartments 10, 20. This pathway 9 should be insulated to prevent any loss of heat to unintended areas and to ensure that heat transfer occurs primarily along the intended route to the chilled compartment 20.

[0032] The heat pipe 17 can further run within a specific stage or level of the charging compartment 10. This stage could represent a shelf or an internal divisionwithin the charging compartment 10 where the PEDs are placed for charging. The heat pipe 17 is strategically positioned within this stage to maximize its contact with the areas where the most heat is generated. This might be within the shelf body, effectively turning the shelf itself into a heat-absorbing surface. As the PEDs are placed on the shelf for charging, the heat they generate is directly absorbed by the heat pipe 17 embedded within the shelf. This ensures that heat is quickly captured and transferred away from the devices, preventing the build-up of high temperatures.

[0033] The efficiency of the heat pipe 17 depends on its thermal contact with the surfaces it is meant to cool or heat. This can be achieved by ensuring that the heat pipe 17 is in direct contact with metal surfaces of the charging compartment 10. This can involve the use of thermally conductive adhesives or mounting brackets that press the pipe against the compartment 10 walls. The heat pipe 17 can also be positioned to maximize surface area contact. For instance, within the charging compartment 10, the heat pipe 17 could snake through the walls in a zigzag pattern, increasing the area over which heat is absorbed. At the other end of the heat pipe 17, the cooler section which is in thermal contact within the chilled compartment 20, can be enhanced by adding fins or extending the surface area of the heat pipe 17, increasing its contact with the chilled air and thereby improving the cooling efficiency. The chilled compartment 20 may already be connected to a refrigeration unit or cooling system. The heat pipe 17 can be designed to align with these systems, ensuring that the heat absorbed from the charging compartment 10 is efficiently transferred and dissipated by the existing cooling mechanisms.

[0034] Figure 3 illustrates a charging compartment 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The charging compartment 10 can be used in a transportation vehicle. The vehicle can be a train, an helicopter or a boat (yacht). Also, the vehicle can be an aircraft. In the following, any reference to an aircraft is a non-limitative example of a vehicle. The vehicle may transport a crew. The vehicle may transport passengers or not, such as military or cargo vehicles.

[0035] Compartment 10 can accommodate one or more personal electronic devices (PEDs) 11 for charging. A PED 1 1 is an electronic device owned by anindividual. PED 11 is a portable device owned by the owner (PED standing for personal electronic device or portable electronic device). Examples of PEDs are laptop computers, tablets, e-readers, smartphones, MP3 players, electronic toys or wearable devices for care and hygiene, etc. The compartment being suitable for accommodating one or more PEDs. PEDs first appeared in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Their use then spread rapidly. Since 2010, crews have started to use tablets and phones in the cabin and / or cockpit. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and agencies such as the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) are faced with the challenge of accommodating the use and recharging of PEDs in the aircraft environment. Compartment 10 is a response to the increased use of PEDs and therefore the increased need to charge PEDs.

[0036] The compartment 10 comprises an inner space 12 suitable for accommodating at least one PED 1 1. The size of the inner space 12 is defined according to the number and size of the PEDs to be accommodated and also according to the space available in the vehicle. The inner space 12 is delimited by the side, top and bottom walls of compartment 10. The PEDs 11 can be stored in a loose or orderly fashion in the inner space 12. The PEDs 11 may be separated by partitions. The compartment 10 may comprise one or more doors 14 to close the inner space 12 and for access to the inner space 12. The doors 14 may be pivotable, for example, about a vertical or horizontal axis. Doors 14 can slide horizontally or vertically. The doors 14 enable the PEDs 11 to be confined inside the compartment 10. The doors 14 enable the PEDs to be concealed from the view of any third party. Doors 14 can be locked. The doors 14 may extend over the full height of the inner space or only part of the height, such as two-thirds or half the height as a matter of example.

[0037] In order to ensure charging of the PEDs 11 , compartment 10 comprises at least one electrical insert 13 for charging the at least one PED 11 . The number of electrical inserts 13 depends on the number of PEDs that can be accommodated within the inner space 12. The electrical insert(s) 13 are connected to a power source located close to the compartment 10. The electrical insert(s) 13 may be a conventional power socket, and several electrical inserts may be provided inaccordance with the standards of different countries. The electrical insert 13 may also be a USB socket.

[0038] The compartment 10 further comprise a cooling connection that comprises preferably a heat pipe 17 in order to evacuate heat from the charging compartment 10. The heat pipe 17 is, for example, positioned along the lower section of the charging compartment 10, running horizontally across the base. For example, the heat pipe 17 is thermally coupled with two heat exchangers 18, which are adapted to be thermally coupled to the charging compartment 10. These heat exchangers 18 are designed to manage the heat generated by each PED 11 during charging, ensuring the temperature within the charging compartment 10 remains within safe operational limits. Preferably, each heat exchanger 18 is positioned near the areas where heat concentration is expected to be the highest, typically near the PEDs 11 themselves. In this way, the heat exchangers 18 serve as a bridge, absorbing heat from the charging compartment 10 and facilitating its movement via the heat pipe 17 to the chilled compartment, where it is dissipated.

[0039] The heat exchangers 18 can be made of thermal conductive plates mounted directly against the internal surfaces of the charging compartment 10 walls. Materials with high thermal conductivity, like copper or aluminum, are used to ensure efficient heat transfer from the wall to the heat exchanger 18. The heat exchangers 18 can alternatively be vapor chambers. Given the limited space within the charging compartment 10, the heat exchangers 18 could be designed to be compact yet efficient. They are preferably slim and flat, ensuring they do not take up significant space. This compact design ensures that the heat exchangers 18 can function effectively without compromising the available space within the charging compartment 10. Alternatively, the heat exchangers 18 can be mounted to maximize contact with the air inside the charging compartment 10. In this case, the heat exchangers 18 would be designed with fins to increase the surface area in contact with the air. The optimal placement would be close to PEDs to effectively capture the heat. If a heat exchanger 18 is designed for convective cooling, the interior of the compartment can be configured to facilitate air circulation. Forinstance, strategically placed vents can allow hot air to escape, creating a natural airflow that enhances the heat exchanger’s 18 efficiency.

[0040] The charging compartment 10 can further be equipped with a support 50 specifically designed for the optimal positioning of the PEDs. The support 50 can securely holds the PEDs in an upright or slightly angled position, which not only prevents the devices from moving but also ensures that they are positioned close to the heat exchanger 18, facilitating efficient heat transfer away from the devices. The support 50 can be preferably made from materials that are both thermally conductive and non-abrasive. This ensures that while the PEDs are held securely, heat is also conducted away from the devices through the support 50 structure itself, further aiding in heat dissipation. To accommodate different types and sizes of PEDs, the support 50 features adjustable or customizable slots. This flexibility ensures that regardless of the device’s dimensions, it can be positioned in the most thermally advantageous orientation.

[0041] The present invention has been described in relation to the specific embodiments which have a value that is purely illustrative and should not be considered to be limiting. The skilled person will notice that the invention is not limited to the examples that are illustrated and / or described here above. For example, the heat pipe connection and the removable nature of the charging compartment can each be considered independently or in combination with the rest of the described features. The invention comprises each of the new technical characteristics described in the present document, and their combinations.

[0042] To sum up, the invention relates to a charging compartment 10 designed for use in transportation vehicles to charge PEDs 11 safely and efficiently. It features a cooling connection 16 that links to a chilled area within the vehicle, allowing heat to be passively evacuated from the charging compartment 10. This design reduces the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards without the need for complex machinery or active cooling systems like fans or compressors.

Claims

Claims1. A charging compartment (10) for charging at least one personal electronic device (11 ), for use onboard a transportation vehicle, the compartment (10) comprising• an inner space (12) suitable for receiving at least one personal electronic device (11 ),• at least one electrical insert (13) for charging the personal electronic device (11 ),• a cooling connection (16) for thermally connecting the charging compartment (10) to a chilled area in order to evacuate heat from the charging compartment (10).

2. The charging compartment (10) according to claim 1 , further comprising one or more doors (14) to close the inner space and for access to it.

3. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a support (50) for positioning the personal electronic device (11 ).

4. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling connection (16) is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment (10) to a chilled compartment (20).

5. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling connection (16) is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment (10) to a water and waste system of the transportation vehicle.

6. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling connection is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment (10) to an air conditioning system of the transportation vehicle.

7. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling connection is adapted to thermally connect the charging compartment (10) to a Peltier chiller.

8. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling connection (16) comprises a heat pipe (17) and / or a vapor chamber, each containing a coolant suitable for flowing passively between a hot and a cold areas.

9. The charging compartment (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cooling connection (16) further comprises at least one heat exchanger (18) coupled to the heat pipe (17), the heat exchanger (18) being adapted to be thermally coupled to either the charging compartment (10) or the chilled area.

10. The charging compartment (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the heat exchanger (18) is a vapor chamber.1 1. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling connection (16) comprises a thermal conductive plate.

12. The charging compartment (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the compartment (10) is removable.

13. A monument of a transportation vehicle with a charging compartment (10) of any one of the preceding claims, the monument being preferably a galley, lavatory or stowage.

14. A transportation vehicle with a monument according to the preceding claim, the vehicle being preferably an aircraft.5

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