Modular Passenger Interface System for Aircraft Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing passenger vehicle entertainment systems, particularly in aircraft, are cumbersome and costly to maintain and upgrade due to the weight and cost of seat-based monitors, which require multiple equipment models for different classes and are difficult to service efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular passenger interface system comprising a removable processor unit and docking station with wireless connectivity, alignment features, and ruggedized design, allowing for easy replacement and upgrade of the processor unit while minimizing the need for extensive maintenance resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If seat-based monitors are installed for multiple years, then system stability is improved, but maintenance complexity increases due to multiple distinct models
Solution Approach 1:
The monitor system is divided into two independent segments: a permanent docking station and a removable processor unit. This segmentation allows the processor unit to be easily replaced without affecting the docking station, simplifying maintenance while extending overall system service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate different processor units. This multi-functionality allows the same docking station to work with multiple generations of processor units, reducing maintenance complexity across different service years.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different grades of devices are used for different passenger classes, then adaptability is improved, but maintenance resources required increase
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the processor unit from the docking station, different grades of processor units can be used for different passenger classes while maintaining a common docking station infrastructure. This reduces maintenance resources as only the processor units need to be serviced, not the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different grades of processor units can be deployed in different passenger classes (local quality) while the docking station remains standardized. This allows adaptability to different classes without increasing overall maintenance resources.
3Ease of operation
If wireless connectivity is added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station acts as an intermediary between the processor unit and the aircraft's entertainment system. It provides wireless connectivity capabilities while keeping the processor unit simple and interchangeable, thus improving ease of operation without permanently increasing device complexity.
4Reliability
If alignment features are added to prevent incorrect connection, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment features such as asymmetric shapes, keys, or notches are incorporated into the docking station and processor unit interfaces. These asymmetric features prevent incorrect connection orientations, improving connection reliability while using simple geometric forms that do not require extreme manufacturing precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
A passenger interface apparatus for a passenger transportation vehicle comprising: a visual display generator (1) a docking station (3) a removable processor unit (2), arranged to be detachably connected to the docking station, a connection (7) provided between the docking station and the visual display generator, arranged to supply data and/or signalling to the visual display generator, the removable processor unit comprising a memory (2a), a data processor (2d), and a connection interface (2e) arranged to connect to a connection interface of the docking station such that when in a connected condition the connection interfaces arranged to convey data and/or signalling therebetween.