Craft adapter system and method of use thereof

Abstract

A craft adapter insert for connecting to a base support of a craft adapter system for establishing a power and data connection to a mountable device connected thereto; it has a housing; a first data interface for establishing a data connection with the craft; a power inlet for receiving power from the craft; a second data interface for establishing a connection between the mountable device and the craft; and a power outlet for transferring power to the mountable device from the craft, whereby the mountable device can operate by receiving power and data from the craft, through the craft adapter insert once joined to the base support that is connected to the craft and the mountable device is fastened to the craft adapter insert.

Description

CRAFT ADAPTER SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

[0001] The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No.63 / 761,617 filed on February 21, 2025, incorporated herein by reference.Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to accessories for crafts, and more particularly to adapters for passenger devices onboard a craft.Background

[0003] Passengers onboard certain vessels or crafts, such as a jet, often require use of their electronic devices, such as a tablet, a smartphone, a laptop, for, e.g., work or entertainment when flying on the craft. In order to enjoy the use of these electronic devices, the devices require a source of power and / or an Internet connection for accessing the web.

[0004] However, depending on the electronic device, the type of power inlet of the electronic device and the type of connector for establishing a data connection may vary, resulting in a difficulty in connecting the electronic device to the craft for supplying power and / or an Internet connection, as the craft may not be equipped with the requisite connectors and / or ports.

[0005] Moreover, in some instances, certain passengers may be looking for additional accessories to make their flight more enjoyable, such as a light, a wireless charging pad, a tablet holder, etc. but the limited space and the difference in equipment required to enable the functionality of these different devices render the accommodation by the craft of this large variety of different devices challenging.Summary

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a craft adapter system for receiving, securing and supplying power and / or a data connection (e.g. Ethernet for civil applications or Time- Sensitive Networking (TSN) for military applications) to a mounted device (e.g. for use by a passenger of the craft), referred to herein as a mountable device.

[0007] The craft adapter system is compact in order to reduce the footprint of the craft adapter system on the craft. The craft adapter system is modular, including a base support and a craft adapter insert as described herein, to reduce the space taken by the craft adapter system, permitting disassembly for storage. Moreover, the modular nature of the craft multi-purpose adapter system permits the substitution of one module (e.g. when one module requires replacement), such as thecraft adapter insert.

[0008] A broad aspect is a base support for a craft adapter system, for fastening to an inside of a craft, the craft adapter system for establishing a power and data connection with a mountable device connected thereto. The base support includes a housing with a first face and a second face opposite the first face, adapted to be connected at the second face to a surface of the inside of the craft through one or more fasteners; an inner compartment defined at the first face, forming a space within the housing, adapted to receive a craft adapter insert; a power inlet accessible via the second face, for connecting to the craft and for receiving power from the craft; a first data interface accessible via the second face, for connecting to the craft and for establishing a data connection with the craft; a power outlet accessible within the inner compartment of the first face, for transmitting power received from the power inlet to the craft adapter insert when the insert is received in the inner compartment; and a second data interface accessible within the inner compartment of the first face, for permitting a data connection between the craft and the craft adapter insert, then to the mountable device, when the craft adapter insert is received in the inner compartment and the mountable device is joined to the craft adapter insert.

[0009] In some embodiments, the base support may include openings defined through the first face and the second face of the housing, for receiving the fasteners for fastening the base support to the inside of the craft.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second face may be flat.

[0011] In some embodiments, the base may have a puck shape.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first data interface may be an Ethernet cable.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first data interface may possess a TSN communication capability.

[0014] In some embodiments, the inner compartment may have a lip located around an edge of the first face, the lip and the first face defining an arcuate channel for receiving the craft adapter insert by sliding the craft adapter insert into the inner compartment.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first face may be adapted to contact and mate with a face of the craft adapter insert when the craft adapter insert is located in the inner compartment.

[0016] In some embodiments, the base support may include a curved aperture for locking the craft adapter insert to the base support once a pin of the insert is received in the curved aperture.

[0017] In some embodiments, the curved aperture may be that of a slide latch lock for receivingthe pin.

[0018] In some embodiments, the inner compartment may include an opening located at a first end of the base support, the curved aperture located at the first end, and the craft adapter insert adapted to be inserted into the inner compartment through the opening.

[0019] In some embodiments, the base support may include a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the power outlet and the second data interface are located nearer the second end than the first end.

[0020] In some embodiments, the inner compartment may start at the first end at the opening and continues to the power outlet and the second data interface located at a base of the inner compartment.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first face may include a horseshoe-shaped panel around the inner compartment and overlapping with the inner compartment.

[0022] In some embodiments, the power outlet may be combined with the second data interface, for establishing a power-over-data connection with the craft adapter insert.

[0023] In some embodiments, the base support may include cables leaving the second face of the housing, the first data interface and the power inlet located at ends of the cables.

[0024] Another broad aspect is a craft adapter insert for connecting to a base support of a craft adapter system for establishing a power and data connection to a mountable device connected thereto. The craft adapter insert includes a housing comprising a first face and a second face opposite the first face, wherein the first face comprises a projection that is adapted to connect with an inner compartment of the base support, and wherein the second face of the housing is adapted for fastening to the mountable device; a first data interface for establishing a data connection with the craft via the base support by connecting to the base support, the first data interface located on the projection; a power inlet for receiving power from the craft transferred via the base support, the power inlet located on the projection; a second data interface located on the second face for establishing a connection between the mountable device and the craft, via the first data interface, once the mountable device is fastened to the insert; and power outlet located on the second face for transferring power to the mountable device from the craft, via the power inlet, once the mountable device is fastened to the insert, whereby the mountable device can operate by receiving power and data from the craft, through the craft adapter insert once joined to the base support that is connected to the craft, and the mountable device is fastened to the craft adapter insert.

[0025] In some embodiments, the craft adapter insert may include openings defined through the first face and the second face of the housing, for receiving the fasteners for fastening the craft adapter insert to the mountable device.

[0026] In some embodiments, the craft adapter insert may include a first portion of a locking mechanism for interacting with a second portion of the locking mechanism that is located on the base support, wherein the locking mechanism locks the craft adapter insert to the base support.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first portion may be a pin adapted to fit into the second portion that is a curved aperture, and the locking mechanism may be a slide latch lock.

[0028] In some embodiments, the housing may include a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first portion of the locking mechanism may be located closer to the first end than the second end, and wherein the first data interface and the power inlet may be located closer to the second end than the first end.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first data interface and the second data interface may be located at a base of the projection, the base having a wedge shape.

[0030] In some embodiments, the projection may include a plaque defining a first wing on a left side of the projection and a second wing on a right side of the projection, the first wing and the second wing for securing the craft adapter insert to the base support.

[0031] In some embodiments, the housing may have a disk shape.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second face of the housing may be flat.

[0033] Another broad aspect is a craft adapter system including the base support as described herein; and the craft adapter insert as described herein.

[0034] Another broad aspect is a kit including the craft adapter system as described herein; and the mountable device.

[0035] In some embodiments, mountable device may be a tablet holder.

[0036] In some embodiments, the mountable device may be a wireless charging station.

[0037] Another broad aspect is a method of supplying power and data to a mountable device. The method includes fastening a mountable device to a craft adapter insert that is adapted to supply power and data from a craft through a base support that is joined to the craft and to the craft adapter insert, to the mountable device.

[0038] In some embodiments, the fastening may be performed by bolting or screwing the mountable device to the craft.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method may include locking the base support to the craft adapter insert.

[0040] Another broad aspect is kit including the craft adapter insert as described herein; and the mountable device.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0041] The invention will be better understood by way of the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1A is a drawing of a back isometric view of an exemplary base support of an exemplary craft adapter system;

[0043] Figure IB is a drawing of a front isometric view of the exemplary base support of Figure 1A;

[0044] Figure 1C is a drawing of a back view of the exemplary base support of Figure 1 A;

[0045] Figure ID is a drawing of a side view of the exemplary base support of Figure 1A;

[0046] Figure IE is a drawing of a front view of the exemplary base support of Figure 1 A;

[0047] Figure IF is a drawing of a back isometric view of an exemplary base support of an exemplary craft adapter system;

[0048] Figure 1G is a drawing of a front isometric view of the exemplary base support of Figure IF;

[0049] Figure 1H is a drawing of a back view of the exemplary base support of Figure IF;

[0050] Figure II is a drawing of a side view of the exemplary base support of Figure IF;

[0051] Figure 1 J is a drawing of a front view of the exemplary base support of Figure IF;

[0052] Figure 2A is a drawing of a back isometric view of an exemplary craft adapter insert of an exemplary craft adapter system;

[0053] Figure 2B is a drawing of a front isometric view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2 A;

[0054] Figure 2C is a drawing of a front view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2A;

[0055] Figure 2D is a drawing of a side view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2A;

[0056] Figure 2E is a drawing of a back view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2A;

[0057] Figure 2F is a drawing of a back isometric view of an exemplary craft adapter insert of an exemplary craft adapter system;

[0058] Figure 2G is a drawing of a front isometric view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2F;

[0059] Figure 2H is a drawing of a front view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2F;

[0060] Figure 21 is a drawing of a side view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2F;

[0061] Figure 2J is a drawing of a back view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2F;

[0062] Figure 2K is a drawing of a top view of the exemplary craft adapter insert of Figure 2F;

[0063] Figure 3A is a drawing of an isometric view of an exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0064] Figure 3B is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0065] Figure 3C is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0066] Figure 3D is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0067] Figure 3E is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0068] Figure 3F is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0069] Figure 3G is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0070] Figure 3H is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0071] Figure 31 is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable device fastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0072] Figure 3J is a drawing of an isometric view of another exemplary mountable devicefastened to an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0073] Figure 4A is a drawing of a front view of an exemplary base support joined to an exemplary bezel;

[0074] Figure 4B is a drawing of a front view of another exemplary base support joined to another exemplary bezel;

[0075] Figure 5A is a drawing of an exemplary base support that is receiving an exemplary craft adapter insert;

[0076] Figure 5B is a drawing of another exemplary base support that is receiving another exemplary craft adapter insert; and

[0077] Figure 6 is a flowchart diagram of an exemplary method of supplying power to and establishing a data connection with an exemplary mountable device within a craft.Detailed Description

[0078] The present disclosure relates to a craft adapter system for powering a mountable device and establishing a data connection between the mountable device and a craft for use by a passenger of the craft, the user of the mountable device, where the craft adapter system is configured to accommodate a variety of different mountable devices. The craft adapter system operates as a bridge between the craft and the mountable device, across which data and power may flow.

[0079] The craft adapter system includes a base support for joining to a craft, for receiving power from the craft, and for establishing a data connection with the craft. The craft adapter system includes a craft adapter insert for joining to the base support and for receiving a mountable device. The craft adapter insert acts as an intermediary for permitting a flow of power, and data, between the craft and the mountable device, via the base support. The face of the craft adapter insert has been configured to accommodate a plurality of different mountable devices that can be joined to the craft adapter insert.

[0080] The modular nature of the craft adapter system, where the craft adapter insert may be detached from the base support, and where the mountable device is detachable from the craft adapter insert, permits storage of the components of the craft adapter system, thereby reducing the footprint taken by the craft adapter system within the limited space of the interior of the craft.

[0081] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are tobe construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is as “including, but not limited to.”

[0082] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0083] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0084] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the teachings. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosed embodiments.

[0085] DEFINITIONS:

[0086] In the present disclosure, by “craft”, it is meant a vessel for transporting passengers, such as an aircraft (e.g. commercial plane, a jet, a military aircraft, etc.), a watercraft (e.g. a yacht, a cruise ship, etc.), a spacecraft, a motorized land vessel (e.g. a military vehicle, a bus, a car, etc.) etc.

[0087] EXEMPLARY BASE SUPPORT OF AN EXEMPLARY CRAFT ADAPTER SYSTEM:

[0088] Reference is made to Figures 1A-1J, illustrating an exemplary base support 150 of an exemplary craft adapter system 100 in accordance with the present teachings.

[0089] The base support 150 includes a housing 157 and an inner compartment 151 for receiving the craft adapter insert 200. The housing 157 has a first face 159 and a second face 160 opposite the first face 159. The base support 150 includes a power inlet 161 and a first data interface 162. The base support 150 includes a power outlet 155 and a second data interface 156. The base support 150 has a first end 163 and a second end 164 opposite the first end 163.

[0090] The base support 150 includes one or more fasteners, or one or more openings for receiving one or more fasteners 153, for fastening the base support 150 to the craft.

[0091] The base support 150 may include a portion 154 of a locking mechanism for locking the base support 150 to the craft adapter insert 200.

[0092] The base support 150 may include a horseshoe-shaped plaque 158 located around the inner compartment 151. The base support 150 may include slots 152 defined between a back wall of the inner compartment 151 and the horseshoe-shaped plaque 158.

[0093] The housing 157 is a structure within which is defined the inner compartment 151. The power inlet 161, the power outlet 155, the first data interface 162, and the second data interface 156 are connected to (and in some cases, integrated into) the housing 157. The housing 157 may have a puck shape, as illustrated in Figure 1A. The housing 157 may have rounded edges. It will be understood that the shape of the housing 157 may vary without departing from the present teachings. In some instances, the housing 157 may be made from metal, such as aluminum (high-strength aluminum), stainless steel, etc. In some instances, the housing 157 may be made from a plastic, carbon fiber, etc.

[0094] The openings 153 for joining the base support 150 to the craft by receiving fasteners there through may be located on the housing 157. For instance, as illustrated in Figure 1A, there may be four openings 153, each opening 153 located at a comer of the housing 157, or the horseshoe-shaped plaque 158 of the housing 157. For instance, two openings 153 may be located on either side of the horseshoe-shaped plaque 158. It will be understood that the number (e.g. three, four, five, etc.) and locations of the openings 153 may vary without departing from the present teachings. Fasteners, such as screws or bolts, may pass through the openings 153 and fasten to a surface of the inside of the craft (e.g. a wall), to secure in turn the base support 150 to the inside of the craft. In some instances, along with or instead of openings 153, the housing 157 may include the fasteners for attaching the base support 150 to the inside of the craft (not shown).

[0095] The inner compartment 151 is adapted to receive the craft adapter insert 200 (e.g. a projection 202 of the craft adapter insert 200). As such, the shape of the inner compartment 151 may complement the shape of the projection 202 of the craft adapter insert 200. The inner compartment 151 may include an opening, as shown in Figure 1A, at a first side 163 of the base support 150 through which the projection 202 may slide into the inner compartment 151.

[0096] Abase of the inner compartment 151, opposite the opening of the inner compartment 151, may provide a surface that enables contact between the second data interface 156 of the base support 150 and the first data interface 204 of the craft adapter insert 200. The base of the innercompartment 151 may be angled with respect to the surface of the first face 159 of the housing 157. The inner compartment may run from the first side 163 towards the second side 164 of the base. The inner compartment 151 may be located at the middle of the first face 159 of the housing 157.

[0097] In some embodiments, a horseshoe-shaped plaque 158 may be positioned around the inner compartment 151, at least partially framing the inner compartment 151. The horseshoeshaped plaque 158 may overlap with the inner compartment 151, the overlapping horseshoeshaped plaque 158 creates a lip that protrudes over the inner compartment 151. The lip of the horseshoe-shaped plaque 158 located on either side of the inner compartment creates an elongated slot 152 on both sides of the inner compartment 151, the slot 152 located between the lip of the horseshoe-shaped plaque 158 and the back of the inner compartment 151. The slots 152 may be adapted to receive the corresponding wings of the projection 202 when the craft adapter insert 200 is positioned in the inner compartment 151 of the base support 150.

[0098] The first data interface 162 may include a cord or cable extending from the second face 160 of the housing 157. The first data interface 162 may be one as is known in the art for permitting the transmission and reception of data there through. For instance, in one embodiment, the first data interface 162 is an Ethernet cable, and may optionally possess a Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) capability. In some instances, the first data interface 162 may be a CAT 5e Ethernet connector, a CAT 6 A Ethernet connector, etc., optionally with a TSN communication capability.

[0099] The power inlet 161 may include a cord or cable joined to a connector for power supplied from the craft to flow therethrough when the power inlet 161 is connected to the craft. The power inlet 161 is joined to the housing 157. In some instances, the power inlet 161 may be a USB connector.

[0100] In some instances, a single cable or connector may be provided, where a single interface acts as both a first data interface 162 and a power inlet 161, e.g. providing power-over-Ethernet.

[0101] When the base support 150 is fastened to a surface of the craft, the cable(s) of the first data interface 162 and of the power inlet 161 may be passed, e.g., behind the surface (e.g. wall) of the craft, such that the cables are not visible by the passengers.

[0102] The second data interface 156 is joined to the first face 159 of the housing 157. The power outlet 155 is joined to the first face 159 of the housing 157. In some instances, the power outlet 155 and the second data interface 156 may be part of the same interface, for supplying powerand establishing a data connection. In some instances, the power outlet 155 and the second data interface 156 may be integrated into the housing 157. The power outlet 155 and the second data interface 156 may be located at a base of the inner compartment 151, for making contact with the corresponding power inlet 203 of the craft adapter insert 200 and the first data interface 204 of the craft adapter insert 200. For instance, the power outlet 155 and the second data interface 156 may be provided as a spring pin connector, using spring-loaded plungers for connecting with a complementary connection system of the craft adapter insert 200.

[0103] In some embodiments, the base support 150 may include a portion 154 of a locking mechanism, for interaction with a complementary portion of the locking mechanism located on the craft adapter insert 200, for locking the craft adapter insert 200 to the base support 150 (for increasing stability of the connection between the craft adapter insert 200 and the base support 150). In some instances, the portion 154 of the locking mechanism may be a curved aperture for receiving a pin of the craft adapter insert 200, the locking mechanism being a slide latch lock. It will be understood that the portion 154 of the locking mechanism may instead be a pin, or any other portion of a locking mechanism for interacting with a corresponding portion of the locking mechanism of the craft adapter insert 200, for locking the craft adapter insert 200 to the base support 150.

[0104] In some instances, the base support 150 includes a bezel 400, a ring for fitting around the housing 157 of the base support 150, as shown in Figure 4Aand Figure 4B. The bezel 400 may modify the appearance of the base support 150 and for blending the base support 150 with the surface of the craft with respect to which the base support 150 is to be fastened.

[0105] EXEMPLARY CRAFT ADAPTER INSERT OF AN EXEMPLARY CRAFT ADAPTER SYSTEM:

[0106] Reference is now made to Figures 2A-2J, illustrating an exemplary craft adapter insert 200 of an exemplary craft adapter system 100.

[0107] The exemplary craft adapter insert 200 includes a housing 201, a projection 202, a power inlet 203, a first data interface 204, a power outlet 208 and a second data interface 209. The housing 201 has a first face 212 and a second face 213 opposite the first face 212. The craft adapter insert 200 is adapted to secure to a mountable device 300, e.g. through the use of fasteners passing through the openings 207, and connecting to the mountable device 300. The craft adapter insert 200 has a first end 210 and a second end 211 opposite the first end 210.

[0108] The exemplary craft adapter insert 200 may include a plaque 214 located on the projection 202. The plaque 214 may define wings 205 extending outwardly therefrom.

[0109] The exemplary craft adapter insert 200 may include a portion of a locking mechanism 206, for interacting with the portion of the locking mechanism 154, for locking together the craft adapter insert 200 and the base support 150.

[0110] The housing 201 has a first face 212 and a second face 213. The housing 201 has a shape for mating with the base support 150, e.g. through the projection 202 connected thereto. The housing 201 may have a base with a disk shape or that of a parallelogram with rounded edges, with rounded edge, where the projection 202 extends from a center of the base of the housing 202, at a first face 212 of the housing 201. However, it will be understood that the shape of the housing 202 may vary without departing from the present teachings, provided that the shape of the housing 202 permits connecting with the base support 150 and to the mountable device 300. The housing 201 may be made from plastic, a metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), carbon fiber, etc.

[0111] The second face 213 may be flat, for mating with the mountable device 300.

[0112] In some instances, the craft adapter insert 200 may include openings 207 for receiving fasteners therethrough and that connect with the mountable device 300. As shown in Figure 2A, there may be four openings 207, where each of the four openings 207 is located at one of four corners of the housing 201. However, it will be understood that the number of openings 207 may vary (e.g. three, four, five, etc.) without departing from the present teachings, where there are sufficient openings 207 to secure the mountable device 300 to the craft adapter insert 200 through the use of fasteners. Moreover, the position of the openings 207 on the craft adapter insert 200 may vary without departing from the present teachings. In some instances, the craft adapter insert 200 may include the one or more fasteners (e.g. screws, bolts, etc.) joined thereto for attaching the craft adapter insert 200 to the mountable device 300 (not shown).

[0113] The projection 202 joins with the inner compartment 151 of the base support 150, securing the craft adapter insert 200 to the base support 150. As such, the shape of the projection 202 may depend upon the shape of the inner compartment 151. In some instances, the projection 202 slides in the inner compartment 151 through an opening of the inner compartment 151.

[0114] In one embodiment, the projection 202 is at an elevated level with respect to the housing 201, and may extend from a first end 210 of the base support 200 towards the second end 211 of the base support 200. An end of the projection 202 may have a wedge shape, on which the powerinlet 203 and the first data interface 204 are located. The wedge shape of the projection 202 may match the angled portion of the inner compartment 151, where the power inlet 203 and the first data interface 204 contact and connect with the power outlet 155 and the second data interface 156 of the base support 150, when the projection 202 of the craft adapter insert 200 mates with the inner compartment 151 of the base support 150.

[0115] In some instances, the projection 202 may include a plaque 214 (e.g. parallel with a first face 212 of the housing 201) that rests on a foot of the projection 202 as a top surface of the projection 202, e.g. adjacent to the wedge shape of the projection 202. The projection 202 may extend from the foot of the projection on either side (i.e. left and right) of the foot of the projection 202, resulting in wings 205 extending from a body of the projection 202. The wings 205 may define, between the wings 205 and a portion of the housing 201 on which the projection 202 extends therefrom, slots. The plaque 214 and the foot may form a t-shape.

[0116] The dimensions of the wings 205 may be adapted for fitting into the slots 152 of the base support 150, when the projection 202 of the craft adapter insert 200 is inserted into the inner compartment 151, further securing the craft adapter insert 200 to the base support 150.

[0117] A portion of a locking mechanism 206 may be located on the craft adapter insert 200, for interacting with a corresponding portion of the locking mechanism 154 of the base support 150. The locking mechanism 154 of the base support 150 interacts with the portion of the locking mechanism 206 of the craft adapter insert 200, for locking the craft adapter insert 200 and the base support 150 together.

[0118] In one embodiment, the portion of the locking mechanism 206 of the craft adapter insert 200 may be a pin, for inserting into the portion of the locking mechanism, that is a curved slot 154, of the base support 150. The portion of the locking mechanism 206 may be located at a first end 210 of the craft adapter insert 200, or closer to the first end 210 of the craft adapter insert 200 than to the second end 211 of the craft adapter insert 200. The portion of the locking mechanism 206 is located on the first face 212 of the craft adapter insert 200. As shown in Figure 2A, the portion of the locking mechanism 206 may be located on the projection 202 (e.g. the plaque 214 of the projection 202).

[0119] The locking mechanism may be a slide latch lock. However, it will be understood that the locking mechanism may be any other locking mechanism for locking the craft adapter insert 200 and the base support 150 together, without departing from the present teachings.

[0120] The power inlet 203 is configured to establish a connection with the power outlet 155 of the base support 150, for permitting power to flow from the craft to the mountable device 300, the power flowing through the base support 150 and the craft adapter insert 150. The power inlet 203 is positioned on the craft adapter insert 200 to connect with the power outlet 155 of the base support 150 when the craft adapter insert 200 is fastened to the base support 150. The power inlet 203 may be located on the first face 212 of the housing 201. The power inlet 203 may be located on a part of the projection 202 (e.g. the wedge shaped portion of the projection 202).

[0121] The first data interface 204 is configured to establish a connection with the second data interface 156 of the base support 150, for permitting an establishment of a data connection between the mountable device 300 and the craft, the data flowing through the base support 150 and the craft adapter insert 150. The first data interface 204 is positioned to connect with the second data interface 156 of the base support 150 when the craft adapter insert 200 is fastened to the base support 150. The first data interface 204 may be located on the first face 212 of the housing 201. The first data interface 204 may be located on a part of the projection 202 (e.g. the wedge-shaped portion of the projection 202).

[0122] In some instances, the power inlet 203 and the first data interface 204 may be provided as a single, combined interface, receiving both power and data. The type of the first data interface 204 is selected to be compatible with the second data interface 156 of the base support 150. The type of the power inlet 203 is selected to be compatible with the power outlet 155 of the base support 150. For instance, the power inlet 204 and the first data interface 204 may be provided as a spring pin connector, using target pads for receiving the mating pad connector of the base support 150.

[0123] The power outlet 208 is configured to transmit power to the mountable device 300 when the mountable device 300 is connected to the craft adapter insert 200. The power outlet 208 receives power from the power inlet 203, which in turn receives power from the base support 150 which in turn receives power from the craft. The power outlet 208 is positioned on the second face 213 of the housing 201, at a location adapted to transmit power to the mountable device 300 that is connected to the craft adapter insert 200. For instance, in one embodiment, the power outlet 208 may be located at a center of the second face 213 of the housing 201.

[0124] The second data interface 209 is configured to establish a data connection with the mountable device 300 when connected to the craft adapter insert 200. The second data interface209 receives and transmits data to the first data interface 204, where the craft adapter insert 200 transmits and receives data between the mountable device 300 and the craft via the first data interface 204 and the second data interface 209 (via the base support 150).

[0125] In some instances, the power outlet 208 and the second data interface 209 may be provided as a single, combined interface, transmitting both power and data. The type of the second data interface 209 is selected to be compatible with a data interface of the mountable device 300. The type of the power outlet 208 is selected to be compatible with a power inlet of the mountable device 300.

[0126] The craft adapter insert 150 acts as an intermediary between the mountable device 300 and the base support 150 (the base support fastened and connected to the craft). As such, different craft adapter inserts 150 may be used (e.g. with different types of power outlets 208 and / or second data interfaces 209) for matching the power and data requirements of the mountable device 300. The craft adapter insert 200 may be detachably fastened to the base support 150 when used, where the mountable device 300 is in turn joinable to the craft adapter insert 200.

[0127] It will be understood that, in some embodiments, the craft adapter insert 200 may not have a power inlet 203 and power inlet 208 if the mountable device 300 does not require power. It will be understood that, in some embodiments, the craft adapter insert 200 may not have a first data interface 204 and a second data interface 209 if the mountable device 300 does not require a data connection.

[0128] EXEMPLARY MOUNTABLE DEVICE:

[0129] Reference is now made to Figures 3A-3J, illustrating exemplary mountable devices 300A-300J (where a mountable device is referred to herein as mountable device 300).

[0130] The mountable device 300 is adapted to fasten and connect to the craft adapter insert 200, or the craft adapter insert 200 is adapted to fasten to and connect to the mountable device 300. Once connected to the craft adapter insert 200 that is connected in turn to the base support 150 that is connected to the craft, the mountable device 300 receives power with the craft and has a data connection established with the craft (e.g. for an Internet connection via a wired connection established through the craft adapter insert 200 and the base support 150).

[0131] The mountable device 300 connects to the power outlet 208 and / or the second data interface 209 of the craft adapter insert 200 for receiving power from and / or establishing a data connection with the craft through the craft adapter insert 200. As such, the mountable device 300may have a power inlet and / or a data interface that matches respectively the power outlet 208 and / or the second data interface 209. The mountable device 300 may have a single interface for receiving both power and data through the interface from the craft adapter insert 200.

[0132] The mountable device 300 is fastened to the craft adapter insert 200 to avoid dislodging the mountable device 300 during a flight, using fasteners (e.g. screws, bolts), e.g. passing through the openings 207 of the craft adapter insert 200. The mountable device 300 may have corresponding openings for receiving the fasteners that align with openings 207, the fasteners may be attached (e.g. integrated) to the mountable device 300, etc.

[0133] The mountable device 300 may be any electronic device for use by a passenger or crew of the craft (e.g. a commercial plane, a jet, etc.) requiring either power and / or data to operate. For instance, as shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 3F, 3G and 3J, each of the mountable devices 300 A, 300B, 300F, 300G and 300J are wired charging and / or data ports (e.g. an Ethernet port; in some embodiments, adapted to the TSN communication standard) for receiving one or more cables from another electronic device of the user (e.g. a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, etc.)

[0134] The mountable device 300 may be a wireless charging pad, such as the wireless charging pad 300C of Figure 3C or the wireless charging pad 300H of Figure 3H. The wireless pad 300C or 3 OOH may transmit both power and data wirelessly to an electronic device, such as a computer device, resting thereon (e.g. a smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop).

[0135] As shown in Figure 3D or Figure 31, the mountable device 300D or mountable device 3001 may be a clamp or holder for receiving a user’s computing device (e.g. a tablet, a smartphone) and transmitting power and / or data to the computing device held by the holder 300D or holder 3001, respectively.

[0136] The mountable device 300E may be a light, as shown in the exemplary light 300E of Figure 3E.

[0137] It will be understood that mountable devices 300A-300J are but examples of possible mountable devices 300 that can fasten to the craft adapter insert 200 to receive power and / or data through the craft adapter system 100.

[0138] In some instances, the mountable device 300 may be provided with a craft adapter insert 200, where the combination of the mountable device 300 and of the craft adapter insert 200 may be joined to a base support 150 connected to a craft.

[0139] It will be understood that, in some instances, the mountable device 300 may not requirea data connection, and as such, may not have a connector or interface for establishing a data connection via the craft adapter insert 200. It will be understood that, in some instances, the mountable device 300 may not require power, and as such, may not have a connector or interface for receiving power from the craft adapter insert 200.

[0140] COMBINATION OF THE CRAFT ADAPTER INSERT AND THE BASE SUPPORT:

[0141] Reference is now made to Figure 5A and Figure 5B, illustrating an exemplary craft adapter system 100 in accordance with the present teachings, including a craft adapter insert 200 and abase support 150.

[0142] The craft adapter insert 200 may be detachably fastened to the base support 150, e.g. by sliding into the inner compartment 151 of the base support 150 and by, for instance, using a locking mechanism for locking the craft adapter insert 200 to the base support 150 (through portions 154 and 206 of the locking mechanism).

[0143] The craft adapter system 100, once joined to the craft’s interior through the base support 150, permits powering a mountable device 300 joined thereto from the craft, and for establishing a data connection between the mountable device 300 and the craft. The craft adapter system 100 acts as an intermediary for power and data, serving as a bridge, between the mountable device 300 and the craft.

[0144] The craft adapter insert 200 may be interchangeable, where a different craft adapter insert 200 may be joined to the base support 150 depending on the type of mountable device 300 to be powered, with respect to which to establish a data connection.

[0145] The craft adapter insert 200 may be detached from the base support 150, e.g., for storage, such as during taxi, take-off, and landing of the craft, to prevent injury during the taxi, take-off and / or landing of the craft.

[0146] EXEMPLARY METHOD OF SUPPLYING POWER TO AND ESTABLISHING A DATA CONNECTION WITH A MOUNTABLE DEVICE IN A CRAFT:

[0147] Reference is now made to Figure 6, illustrating an exemplary method 600 of supplying power to and establishing a data connection with a mountable device in a craft. The method 600 may be performed using the craft adapter system 100. However, it will be understood that method 600 may be performed by any craft adapter system in accordance with the present teachings.

[0148] The base support of the craft adapter system is joined to the inside of the craft at step601. The base support may be j oined to surface of the craft, such as a horizontal or vertical surface like a wall or floor of the craft, using fasteners (e.g. using bolts, screws, etc.), where a flat face of the base support may be flush with the surface of the craft that is contacting the base support. Cables for receiving power and for establishing a data connection between the craft and the base support may be positioned behind the wall or floor, such that they are not visible to passengers within the craft.

[0149] The data interface and the power inlet of the base support are connected to the craft, to receive power and to establish a data connection with the craft.

[0150] The craft adapter insert is joined to the base support at step 602. A locking mechanism may secure the craft adapter insert to the base support. A power inlet from the craft adapter insert connects with a corresponding power outlet of the base support, to receive power from the base support. A data interface of the craft adapter insert connects with a data interface of the base support, for establishing a data connection through the craft adapter insert and the base support with the craft.

[0151] The craft adapter insert may be j oined to the base support by sliding a proj ection of the craft adapter insert into a corresponding inner compartment of the base support.

[0152] In some embodiments, the craft adapter insert may be locked to the base support at step 603, to further secure the craft adapter insert to the base support. For instance, a slide latch lock may be used. The craft adapter insert may have a first part of the locking mechanism that complements and locks with the second part of the locking mechanism located at the base support.

[0153] The mountable device is connected to the craft adapter insert at step 604. Apower inlet of the mountable device may connect with a power outlet of the craft adapter insert for receiving power from the craft once the craft adapter insert is joined to a base support that is joined to the craft. A data interface of the mountable device may connect with a data interface of the craft adapter insert for establishing a data connection with the craft once the craft adapter insert is joined to the base support that is joined to the craft.

[0154] The mountable device may be fastened to the craft adapter insert (e.g. using fasteners passing through openings located on the craft adapter insert) to strengthen the connection between the mountable device and the craft adapter insert. A receiving face of the mountable device may be shaped to complement a face of the craft adapter insert when the mountable device is joined to the craft adapter insert. For instance, the receiving face of the mountable device may be flat andthe face of the craft adapter insert that contacts the receiving face of the mountable device is flat.

[0155] Power is supplied to and a data connection is established with the mountable device, from the craft, at step 605, once the mountable device is connected to the craft adapter insert that is joined to the base support that is connected to the craft.

[0156] Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications may be resorted to as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are to be considered within the purview and scope of the present invention.

[0157] Representative, non-limiting examples of the present invention were described above in detail with reference to the attached drawing. This detailed description is merely intended to teach a person of skill in the art further details for practicing preferred aspects of the present teachings and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, each of the additional features and teachings disclosed above and below may be utilized separately or in conjunction with other features and teachings.

[0158] Moreover, combinations of features and steps disclosed in the above detailed description, as well as in the experimental examples, may not be necessary to practice the invention in the broadest sense, and are instead taught merely to particularly describe representative examples of the invention. Furthermore, various features of the above-described representative examples, as well as the various independent and dependent claims below, may be combined in ways that are not specifically and explicitly enumerated in order to provide additional useful embodiments of the present teachings.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A base support for a craft adapter system, for fastening to an inside of a craft, the craft adapter system for establishing a power and data connection with a mountable device connected thereto, comprising:a housing with a first face and a second face opposite the first face, adapted to be connected at the second face to a surface of the inside of the craft through one or more fasteners;an inner compartment defined at the first face, forming a space within the housing, adapted to receive a craft adapter insert;a power inlet accessible via the second face, for connecting to the craft and for receiving power from the craft;a first data interface accessible via the second face, for connecting to the craft and for establishing a data connection with the craft;a power outlet accessible within the inner compartment of the first face, for transmitting power received from the power inlet to the craft adapter insert when the insert is received in the inner compartment; anda second data interface accessible within the inner compartment of the first face, for permitting a data connection between the craft and the craft adapter insert, then to the mountable device, when the craft adapter insert is received in the inner compartment and the mountable device is joined to the craft adapter insert.

2. The base support according to claim 1, further comprising openings defined through the first face and the second face of the housing, for receiving the fasteners for fastening the base support to the inside of the craft.

3. The base support according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second face is flat.

4. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the base has a puck shape.

5. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first data interface is an Ethernet cable.

6. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the inner compartment has a lip located around an edge of the first face, the lip and the first face defining an arcuate channel for receiving the craft adapter insert by sliding the craft adapter insert into the inner compartment.

7. The base support according to claim 6, wherein the first face is adapted to contact and mate with a face of the craft adapter insert when the craft adapter insert is located in the innercompartment.

8. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a curved aperture for locking the craft adapter insert to the base support once a pin of the insert is received in the curved aperture.

9. The base support according to claim 8, wherein the curved aperture is that of a slide latch lock for receiving the pin.

10. The base support according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the inner compartment includes an opening located at a first end of the base support, the curved aperture located at the first end, and the craft adapter insert adapted to be inserted into the inner compartment through the opening.

11. The base support according to claim 10, wherein the base support comprises a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the power outlet and the second data interface are located nearer the second end than the first end.

12. The base support according to claim 11, wherein the inner compartment starts at the first end at the opening and continues to the power outlet and the second data interface located at a base of the inner compartment.

13. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first face comprises a horseshoe-shaped panel around the inner compartment and overlapping with the inner compartment.

14. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the power outlet is combined with the second data interface, for establishing a power-over-data connection with the craft adapter insert.

15. The base support according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising cables leaving the second face of the housing, the first data interface and the power inlet located at ends of the cables.

16. A craft adapter insert for connecting to a base support of a craft adapter system for establishing a power and data connection to a mountable device connected thereto, comprising:a housing comprising a first face and a second face opposite the first face, wherein the first face comprises a projection that is adapted to connect with an inner compartment of the base support, and wherein the second face of the housing is adapted for fastening to the mountable device;a first data interface for establishing a data connection with the craft via the base supportby connecting to the base support, the first data interface located on the projection; a power inlet for receiving power from the craft transferred via the base support, the power inlet located on the projection;a second data interface located on the second face for establishing a connection between the mountable device and the craft, via the first data interface, once the mountable device is fastened to the insert; anda power outlet located on the second face for transferring power to the mountable device from the craft, via the power inlet, once the mountable device is fastened to the insert, whereby the mountable device can operate by receiving power and data from the craft, through the craft adapter insert once joined to the base support that is connected to the craft, and the mountable device is fastened to the craft adapter insert.

17. The craft adapter system comprising:the base support according to any one of claims 1 to 15; andthe craft adapter insert according to claim 1618. A kit compri sing :the craft adapter system of claim 17; andthe mountable device.

19. A method of supplying power and data to a mountable device, comprising:fastening a mountable device to a craft adapter insert that is adapted to supply power and data from a craft through a base support that is joined to the craft and to the craft adapter insert, to the mountable device.

20. A kit comprising:the craft adapter insert according to claim 16; andthe mountable device.

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