Portable Passenger Control Unit With Docking and Wireless Suite Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passengers in luxury or comfort suites on aircraft and airport lounges face inconvenience and difficulty in controlling electronic equipment due to the need to extend their arms or leave their seats, which is challenging for those with reduced mobility.
Innovation Solution
A portable, multipurpose passenger control unit (PMPPCU) with a fixed base and a portable passenger control unit (PCU) that allows for wireless control of electronic devices, including lights, seat positions, temperature, and entertainment systems, using a control ring, display, and audio sensors, and includes a projector for image projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic equipment control is integrated into fixed wall panels or control surfaces, then control functionality is available, but passengers must extend their arms or leave their seats to access controls, reducing convenience and accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into two independent parts: a fixed base unit installed in the suite and a portable passenger control unit (PCU) that passengers can move freely. The PCU communicates wirelessly with the fixed base, allowing control functionality to be separated from the installation structure. This segmentation enables passengers to access controls without extending arms or leaving seats while maintaining system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit transitions from a static fixed installation to a dynamic portable device. The PCU can be moved to different positions within the suite, held at comfortable distances, and returned to the fixed base when not in use. This dynamic capability significantly improves accessibility and ease of operation for passengers, particularly those with reduced mobility.
2Ease of operation
If a portable control unit is provided without docking capability, then passengers can move the control unit freely, but the control unit cannot be recharged when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed base unit is equipped with a docking station that automatically recharges the PCU when it is placed in the holder. This preliminary charging action ensures the PCU is always ready for use without requiring passengers to manually connect charging cables or monitor battery levels. The system proactively maintains the PCU's power supply, extending its operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking mechanism provides automatic charging functionality where the PCU recharges itself when docked with the fixed base. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external charging equipment or manual intervention, allowing the portable control unit to maintain its battery life autonomously through simple docking actions.
3Productivity
If traditional control methods are used, then electronic devices can be controlled, but in-flight entertainment systems and other equipment continue to consume power and require regular updates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed base unit incorporates a projector that can display entertainment content directly onto surfaces within the suite, creating an alternative to traditional in-flight entertainment screens. This copying function allows passengers to access entertainment content through projection rather than requiring active IFE system displays, potentially reducing power consumption of entertainment equipment while maintaining access to content.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic equipment control system is provided. The electronic equipment control system includes a portable, multipurpose passenger control unit, The portable, multipurpose passenger control includes a portable passenger control unit and a fixed base. The portable passenger control unit comprises a base portion. The fixed based comprises a holder configured to receive the base portion. Responsive to the portable passenger control unit being coupled to the holder, the portable passenger control unit is configured to control one or more electronic devices within a suite.