Embedded Seat Microphone for Voice Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for collecting passenger feedback on aircraft are inefficient, as they rely on printed paper leaflets with low engagement and high distribution costs, and do not effectively capture passenger voices or suggestions.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft seat group with integrated microphone units and in-flight entertainment systems that allow passengers to record and transmit voice feedback directly to the aircraft network, enabling communication with crew members or emergency contact, and providing a means for passengers to offer suggestions or feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If paper leaflets are used to collect passenger feedback, then feedback can be collected from passengers, but distribution costs are high and passenger engagement is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical paper-based feedback system with an electronic voice recording system. The microphone unit embedded in the seat back divider captures passenger voice feedback electronically, eliminating the need for physical paper leaflets and their distribution infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables passengers to independently record and submit feedback through the integrated microphone unit without requiring flight attendant distribution of paper forms. The automated voice recording and transmission system allows passengers to self-serve the feedback collection process.
2Loss of information
If paper leaflets are distributed to passengers, then feedback collection is possible, but passenger engagement remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual paper-based feedback process with an automated electronic voice recording system. The microphone unit automatically captures and transmits passenger feedback, eliminating the need for passengers to manually fill out and return paper forms.
Solution Approach 2:
The in-flight entertainment unit serves multiple functions including voice feedback collection, emergency communication, and general entertainment. This multi-functionality increases passenger engagement by integrating feedback collection into an already-used system rather than introducing a separate paper-based process.
3Loss of information
If traditional paper-based feedback systems are used, then feedback can be collected, but communication efficiency with crew members is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual paper collection and physical handover to crew members with automated electronic voice recording and digital transmission through the aircraft network. This eliminates the time required for passengers to physically deliver feedback and allows immediate transmission to the flight deck.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback transmission through the aircraft network to the flight deck, allowing real-time communication between passengers and crew members. The automated voice recording and transmission system creates a direct feedback loop without manual intervention delays.
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
Enhances passenger engagement by allowing easy and cost-effective collection of feedback, improving communication with crew members, and enabling emergency voice recordings, while reducing paper usage and distribution costs.
Implementation Method 1
an audio transducer configured to receive the signal from the communication interface and convert a soundwave generated by the passenger to an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft seat group is described. The aircraft seat group includes first and second aircraft seats. The seat group also includes a center console between the aircraft seats. The center console includes a microphone unit including an audio transducer. The audio transducer generates a voice recording of a passenger sitting on one of the seats in response to a signal, thereby reducing privacy concerns. The signal is received by one or more of a record button or a communication interface. The voice recording may thus provide one or more of passenger recommendation or flight recordings during emergency conditions. The microphone unit is embedded in one or more of an armrest or a seat back divider of the center console.