Aircraft Power Distribution Unit with Modular Seat Track Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial passenger aircraft face challenges in providing electrical power to passengers' electronic devices during long flights without incurring significant regulatory hurdles and costs, especially when retrofitting existing seats with power outlet systems to accommodate wireless internet access.
Innovation Solution
A regulatorily compliant electrical distribution unit with removably attached outlets and a securing mechanism that does not contact the aircraft seat, allowing for easy installation without extensive regulatory approval, featuring a microprocessor for signal routing and power management to support various device types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passenger power outlet systems are attached to passenger seats with power-in-use indicator lights, then flight attendants can visually detect power usage for safety compliance, but regulatory approval becomes complex and time-consuming for retrofitting existing seats
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into independent modular units that can be installed without modifying existing seats. Each module contains its own power conversion and distribution components, allowing incremental installation and avoiding the need for comprehensive seat system approval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary power distribution architecture that interfaces with existing aircraft electrical systems without requiring direct integration into seat structures. This intermediary layer simplifies regulatory approval by creating a distinct, self-contained system boundary.
2Duration of action of moving object
If power conversion devices are integrated into existing aircraft infrastructure, then electrical power can be provided to passengers during long flights, but installation complexity and cost increase significantly for retrofitting
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into multiple independent units distributed throughout the aircraft cabin. Each unit serves a specific row or section of seats, allowing for phased installation and reducing overall project complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution modules are designed with universal mounting configurations that can be adapted to various aircraft types and cabin layouts. The modules provide multiple functions including power conversion, distribution, and monitoring within a single integrated unit.
3Ease of operation
If passenger electronic devices remain connected to power outlets during takeoff and landing, then passengers can maintain device functionality, but safety regulations require devices to be shut off and stowed
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system incorporates monitoring that can detect device connection status and provide feedback to flight attendants. This enables real-time awareness of power usage patterns without requiring passengers to manually report device status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to automatically manage power distribution and monitoring without requiring active passenger intervention. Power outlets automatically activate or deactivate based on flight phase signals from the aircraft system, eliminating the need for manual device management by passengers.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and safe power distribution to passengers' devices without obstructing seat modifications, facilitating immediate installation and reducing regulatory oversight, thus enhancing passenger convenience and airline operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A passenger power outlet system employs a power conversion device that converts the aircraft power, typically available at 115 volts and at a frequency of 400 hertz (Hz), to the voltage and frequency that is used by passenger's electronic devices, typically at 110-120 volts and at 60 Hz or 50 Hz.
Data Source
AI summary
A electrical distribution unit comprising a housing, a securing unit connected to the housing and to a seat track in an aircraft, at least one outlet unit on the housing, an electronic connection unit in the housing that is connected to a power distribution system, and where the outlet unit is electronically connected to the electronic distribution unit to provide power to a device connected to the at least one outlet unit.