Blended Wing Body Transparent Panels for Cabin Light and Views
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Solution Overview
Problem
Blended wing body aircraft have limited windows, leading to a claustrophobic and unenjoyable experience for passengers due to the lack of natural light and visibility.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of transparent panels on the cabin ceiling, which are configured to transmit visible light, display images, and adjust transparency, providing passengers with a more open and spacious feel while allowing real-time video at every seat to replace traditional window views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional windows are used in blended wing body aircraft, then structural integrity is maintained, but passenger comfort deteriorates due to limited visibility and claustrophobic experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the window function from the lateral walls to the top surface of the blended wing body, utilizing the third dimension (vertical space) to provide transparent panels. This dimensional shift allows passengers to experience views and natural light without compromising the streamlined fuselage structure, thereby improving comfort while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent panels are segmented and distributed across the top surface of the aircraft body, rather than using large continuous windows. This segmentation allows the structure to maintain strength while providing multiple viewing points, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and passenger comfort.
2Illumination intensity
If transparent panels are installed on the aircraft body, then natural light transmission is improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent panels are strategically positioned in specific locations on the top surface where they can transmit natural light effectively while avoiding critical structural zones. This local placement optimizes light transmission without compromising overall structural strength.
3Ease of operation
If multiple transparent panels are added to the aircraft, then passenger entertainment and comfort are enhanced, but aircraft weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes electrochromic or similar variable transparency materials that can change their optical properties on demand. This allows the panels to provide entertainment and comfort features when needed while maintaining a lighter overall structure compared to traditional fixed window systems with multiple mechanical components.
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
The transparent panels enhance passenger comfort by providing natural light, reducing the aircraft's weight, and offering a more enjoyable travel experience through adjustable lighting and visual entertainment.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of transparent panels allow the transmission of visible light
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a blended wing body aircraft including a blended wing body, wherein the blended wing body is characterized by having no clear dividing line between wings and a main body along a leading edge of the aircraft. The blended wing body aircraft also includes a plurality of transparent panels located in the top surface of the main body, wherein the plurality of transparent panels are located in channels, wherein the plurality of transparent panels allow the transmission of visible light.