Modular Seat Unit with Console Footwell for Flexible Cabin Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current passenger seating arrangements in aircraft cabins are limited by fixed layouts, requiring airlines to constantly develop new designs, which is costly and restrictive, and do not allow for flexible customization or efficient use of space.
Innovation Solution
A modular seat unit system where forward-facing and angled seats can tessellate, with a console providing a footwell accessible by passengers behind, allowing for flexible arrangement and reuse of structural parts, enabling various seating configurations and optimizing cabin space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed seating layouts are used, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but flexibility and customization options are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seating system is divided into modular seat units that can be independently configured and arranged in different patterns. Each seat unit is a self-contained module with standardized dimensions and connection interfaces, allowing airlines to mix and match units to create customized layouts without requiring complete redesigns
Solution Approach 2:
The seat units are designed with universal dimensions, styling, and connection mechanisms that allow the same modular components to serve multiple configuration purposes. A single seat unit type can be arranged in various orientations and combinations to achieve different seating densities and passenger experiences
2Adaptability or versatility
If new seating layouts are constantly developed, then customization options increase, but development costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the seating system into standardized modular units, the patent eliminates the need to design entirely new layouts from scratch. Airlines can achieve customization by reconfiguring existing modules rather than commissioning new development projects, significantly reducing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in seating arrangements (such as row spacing, seat orientation, and configuration patterns) while maintaining the same fundamental modular units. This enables diverse layouts to be achieved through arrangement variations rather than design redesigns
3Adaptability or versatility
If dissimilar seat types are arranged together, then layout flexibility increases, but structural compatibility becomes more difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes universal connection interfaces and standardized dimensions for all seat units, ensuring that different seat types can be structurally integrated. The consistent module design allows various seat configurations to be assembled using the same connection mechanisms and mounting procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design accommodates asymmetric arrangements of seat units while maintaining structural compatibility through standardized interfaces. Different seat types can be positioned in asymmetric patterns (such as staggered rows or mixed orientations) while the universal connection system ensures proper alignment and integration
Data Source
AI summary
A seat unit for a passenger seating arrangement provided within a vehicle cabin, wherein—the seat unit comprising at least a forward facing seat and at least a console arranged adjacent to the seat and a wall structure, wherein the seat unit is configured to link—the forward facing seat arranged in front of the wall structure, and—an angled seat arranged behind the wall structure, wherein the console provides a footwell for a passenger of the angled seat.