Passenger Tray Touch Interface for In-Seat Control Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passenger trays in vehicles often obstruct access to controls for in-flight entertainment and other devices when deployed, leading to inconvenience and potential spills for seated passengers.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a user interface device within the passenger tray that allows control of IFE devices and other passenger-accessible systems, featuring a capacitive touchscreen or touchpad sealed with a cover layer to maintain functionality while preventing spills.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a passenger tray is deployed for use, then the tray provides a stable surface for eating and drinking, but the tray obstructs access to controls for IFE devices and other controls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the passenger tray with a user interface device into an integrated assembly. The tray and control interface are merged into a single unit that can be deployed together, eliminating the need for separate tray and control access mechanisms. This allows passengers to access controls while the tray is deployed without requiring additional structural complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a passenger tray is deployed, then the tray provides a functional surface for meals and beverages, but passengers may spill food or beverage while reaching for controls
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the user interface device directly into the tray assembly, the patent eliminates the need for passengers to reach across or over the tray to access controls. The controls are positioned within easy reach on the tray itself, removing the harmful action of reaching that causes spills.
3Ease of operation
If the user interface device is integrated into the tray, then control access is maintained during tray deployment, but the tray structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the user interface device with the tray structure into a single integrated assembly. The UI device is positioned on the tray and moves with it, allowing control access during deployment without requiring complex separate mechanisms for each component.
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
Ensures uninterrupted access to controls without compromising the tray's functionality, enhancing passenger convenience and reducing the risk of spills or damage to electronic components.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a capacitive touchscreen or touchpad
Implementation Method 2
sealed with a cover layer to maintain functionality while preventing spills
Data Source
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AI summary
A passenger tray with an integrated user interface device is disclosed. In embodiments, a passenger tray assembly includes a passenger tray with a cavity defined in a surface of the passenger tray. A user interface device is disposed within the cavity. The user interface device includes a capacitive touch interface that is configured to generate signals for controlling one or more electronic components in a passenger environment. For example, the capacitive touch interface can be configured to generate signals for controlling an in-flight entertainment device, an actuator of a passenger chair, a passenger light system, and/or a flight attendant alert system.