Modular Aircraft Seat Arrangement with Shared Bed Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft seat configurations in Business Class lack modularity and efficient use of space, particularly in transitions between sitting and extended positions, and do not effectively optimize access to the aisle for passengers without disturbing others.
Innovation Solution
A modular seat arrangement featuring sets of two seats, where at least one set is positioned at the end with an intermediate element forming a shared bed surface, and optionally including a supplementary seat or console to maximize space utilization, along with retractable partitions and oblique walls to reduce footprint and enhance aisle access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If seats are arranged in traditional Business Class configurations, then passenger comfort in extended position is provided, but space utilization and modularity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The seat arrangement is divided into modular sets of two seats facing inwards towards the longitudinal axis, with intermediate elements positioned between them. This segmentation allows the configuration to be adapted to different cabin layouts and requirements while maintaining efficient space utilization through standardized modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a longitudinal arrangement dimension by positioning sets of seats along the longitudinal axis of the aircraft rather than only in transverse rows. This dimensional change enables more flexible space utilization and creates direct aisle access pathways that were not available in traditional row-based configurations.
2Ease of operation
If seats are arranged to provide direct aisle access, then passenger access to aisle is improved, but disturbance to other passengers may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Passengers are divided into separate groups by positioning intermediate elements between sets of seats facing inwards. These intermediate elements act as physical separators that allow passengers in one set to access the aisle independently without passing through or disturbing passengers in adjacent sets, thus providing direct aisle access while eliminating disturbance.
3Area of stationary object
If intermediate elements are added to form shared bed surfaces, then space utilization is optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate elements serve multiple functions: they form part of the shared bed surface when seats are in extended position, provide structural support for the modular arrangement, and act as separators between passenger groups. This multi-functionality optimizes space utilization without proportionally increasing complexity, as a single component performs multiple roles.
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement of individual seats intended to be installed in a cabin of an aeroplane includes at least one assembly of two seats turned towards the interior in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the arrangement.An end assembly includes a first seat and a second seat, each seat being convertible between a sitting position and a recumbent position in which the seat defines a bed surface.An intermediate element includes a surface, referred to as the intermediate surface, located in the same plane as the bed surfaces of the first seat and of the second seat, such that the bed surfaces of the first seat and of the second seat as well as the intermediate surface form a common bed surface.