The present disclosure relates to aircraft and, more particularly, to aircraft modular lavatory monuments having replaceable fixtures.
Aircraft are subject to strict regulatory compliance standards in nearly every country in the world. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration governs the standards for manufacturing, maintaining, and operating aircraft and ancillary concerns such as operating airports. The Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) are organized into sections known as parts due to the organization within the Code of Federal Regulations. There are dozens of parts divided into tens of thousands of separate sections, many of which have large numbers of researchers and technicians using them at any given time. In all, there are many thousands of pages of regulations that must be observed across the aircraft industry.
Of the FARs, part 21 deals with certification procedures for products and parts. These FARs also interact with other regulations, such as but not limited to parts 23-39 (dealing with airworthiness standards for different types of aircraft), part 43 (maintenance), part 119 (certification of carriers), part 121 (operating requirements), part 125 (large passenger aircraft), and others.
Because of these extensive regulations, a technician or engineer cannot simply replace a part with something he or she sees in non-aircraft markets. Instead, new or replacement parts must either be pre-approved per regulations, or approval must be obtained from the Federal Aviation Administration (or other regulatory body in countries other than the United States) in order to use new or different parts.
For example, aircraft lavatories, like any other parts of the aircraft, are subject to strict regulatory requirements. A great many design features are required, right down to the height at which fluid lines are placed in the lavatory. Because of these regulations, aircraft lavatories for commercial aircraft have traditionally been constructed as whole units, known as “monuments”. More generally, a “monument” is a large, replaceable section of an inside of the aircraft designed for a purpose, such as but not limited to a lavatory. The monument design scheme allows, for example, a lavatory for a commercial aircraft to be approved by regulators as a whole and then installed in an aircraft.
However, this regulatory and design scheme results in a problem: if even a single component of the inside of the lavatory requires replacement, such as if a merely decorative flaw were to appear in a backsplash, then the entire lavatory monument (walls, floor, toilet, sink, everything) has to be removed and a new lavatory monument installed. It is not possible to simply remove and replace the backsplash. This problem is not easily solved because the heavy regulatory environment leads engineers to design entire lavatory monuments to meet regulatory requirements. To date, no solution to this problem has been presented. Instead, carriers and manufacturers have had to bear the cost of replacing entire lavatory monuments for even minor adjustments or corrections to a lavatory.
The illustrative embodiments provide for an aircraft. The aircraft includes a fuselage and a lavatory monument removably mounted inside the fuselage. The lavatory monument includes an outboard wall removably connected to an inside surface of the fuselage. The lavatory monument also includes a shell wall removably connected to the outboard wall and extending radially inwardly relative to the fuselage. The lavatory monument also includes a floor panel connected to and between the outboard wall and the shell wall. The lavatory monument also includes a toilet connected to the floor panel. The lavatory monument also includes a plurality of lavatory fixtures individually removably attached to at least one of: the outboard wall, the shell wall, the floor panel, or the toilet. Each of the plurality of lavatory fixtures is configured to be individually removable. Common interface points on each of the plurality of lavatory fixtures are unchangeable with respect to the lavatory monument.
The illustrative embodiments also contemplate a method of modifying the above aircraft. In particular, the illustrative embodiments contemplate removing the fixture while retaining the lavatory monument in place; and replacing the fixture.
The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrative embodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrative embodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and features thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
The different illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account a number of different considerations. For example, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that, due to the heavy regulatory environment of aircraft, aircraft lavatory monuments are not modular. In other words, while the monument itself is replaceable, the components and parts inside the lavatory are not.
In an effort to support customers with increasing demand for customization and features, the illustrative embodiments provide for an aircraft lavatory monument design was developed with the intention of providing additional feature selections, which would allow customers to differentiate their brands and provide increased levels of service. To accomplish the goal of allowing maximum customization with minimal engineering impact, a modular design system was developed. The modular nature of the concept allows multiple sub-assemblies to be removed and replaced without impacting the surrounding assemblies.
This modularity is achieved, while maintaining the requirements of a heavy regulatory environment, by creating common interface points on each sub assembly that are not allowed to change throughout the different modular packages offered. Additionally, the design is carefully laid out such that each component has an acceptable removal envelope, and optimized to reduce the quantity and accessibility of fasteners required.
As used herein, the term “modular” refers to a component which is removably attached to at least one other component or fixture. The term “modular” with respect to a component or fixture automatically contemplates common interface points on the component that are unchangeable with respect to the lavatory monument; that is, the common interface points are not considered “modular.”
The terms “removably attached” or “removeable attachment” refer to a component, fixture, or connection that is easily or quickly replaceable either by hand or the use of tools in a manner that is considered “easy” or “fast” by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terms “easy” or “fast” are determined relative to components that are fixedly attached, or stated differently, intended for permanent and unchanged attachment or formed monolithically with another part of a component. As used herein, the term “about” or “approximately” when used with respect to measurements is determined by the ordinary artisan and is within acceptable engineering tolerances in the regulatory scheme for a given jurisdiction, such as but not limited to the Federal Aviation Administration Federal Aviation Regulations. The term “fixture” refers to a component that can be replaced as an individual unit, such as but not limited to a sink, a faucet, a cabinet, an alcove panel shaped to present an alcove inside the lavatory monument, a toilet paper holder, a drawer, a liquid hose line, a soap dispenser, a soap holder, a towel dispenser, a towel holder, a drawer, a backsplash, a waste receptacle, a counter top, a light strip, a light bulb, a lightable sign, a mirror, a display device, a speaker, a crew signal button, a switch, a panel, a cup holder, an airsick bag dispenser, a tissue dispenser, a sanitary napkin dispenser, a cologne rack, and a shelf.
Turning now to
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 includes modular outboard wall 102 which is intended for removeable attachment to a fuselage of an aircraft. Thus, modular outboard wall 102 may be considered part of a frame for aircraft modular lavatory monument 100. Optionally, aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 may be provided with window 104, which is placed, sized, and dimensioned to match a window in the corresponding model of aircraft for which aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 is intended.
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes modular shell wall 106, which also forms part of the frame for aircraft modular lavatory monument 100. Optionally, ballistic intrusion barrier 108 may also be provided, if desirable. In a still further option, modular shell wall 106 may be replaced by ballistic intrusion barrier 108, in which case ballistic intrusion barrier 108 is “modular.” In either case, the corresponding wall or barrier is removably attached to modular outboard wall 102 and radiates inwardly towards a central axis of the fuselage of the aircraft. While shown as radiating at a perpendicular angle to modular outboard wall 102, the angle shown may be varied in different illustrative embodiments.
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes modular aft wall 110. The term “aft” is used herein merely to distinguish modular shell wall 106 from modular aft wall 110. Modular aft wall 110 also forms part of the frame of aircraft modular lavatory monument 100. While the typical aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 will have modular aft wall 110 actually facing the aft portion of an aircraft, this arrangement is not necessary for all illustrative embodiments. For example, the components shown on modular aft wall 110 could face the “forward” portion of the aircraft, at which point modular aft wall 110 becomes a “modular forward wall”. Note, also, that the various sub-components or fixtures shown on either modular shell wall 106 or modular aft wall 110 may be re-arranged, reversed with respect to which side of the wall to which the are attached, or otherwise altered with more or fewer sub-components or fixtures.
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes modular toilet 112, modular toilet shroud 114 attached to modular toilet 112, and modular floor pan 116 to which modular toilet 112 is also attached. Modular toilet 112 is attached to a waste disposal system contained in the fuselage of the aircraft. Optionally, a bidet may be provided inside or next to modular toilet 112. In the latter case, the bidet may have a bidet shroud similar to modular toilet shroud 114 shown in
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes modular door 118. Modular door 118 may be a folding door, a slab door, a hinged door, a pocket door, or any other desirable door design. Modular door 118 is removably connected to one or both of modular shell wall 106 or modular aft wall 110.
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes modular upper cabinet system 120. Modular upper cabinet system 120 is one or more modular cabinets, drawers, mirrors or other fixtures which are attached at or about chest height or higher for an average adult female or male (or possibly a child in some illustrative embodiments).
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes backsplash assembly 121. Backsplash assembly 121 is independently removably attached to modular shell wall 106 relative to the other components of aircraft modular lavatory monument 100.
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes modular counter system 122. Modular counter system 122 is one or more modular sinks, backsplashes, waste receptacle openings, soap holders, soap dispensers, towel dispensers, or other fixtures that are about between about waist and chest height for an average adult female or male (or possibly a child in some illustrative embodiments).
Aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 also includes lower cabinet assembly 124. Lower cabinet assembly 124 is one or more modular cabinets, toilet paper dispensers, doors, drawers, tissue dispensers, waste receptacles, or other fixtures that are about between about waist and chest height for an average adult female or male (or possibly a child in some illustrative embodiments). In some illustrative examples, lower cabinet assembly 124, may be referred to as a modular lower cabinet assembly.
The various modular components and fixtures shown in
Option 200 includes flange 208. As depicted, flange 208 includes opening 210 for dispensing paper towels, tissues, or other desirable items. In some illustrative examples, opening 210 is optional.
As depicted, flange 208 includes plenum 212. In some illustrative examples, plenum 212 is connected to the aircraft air duct system and is used to dispense air. In some illustrative examples, plenum 212 may be referred to as an environmental control system (ECS) plenum. In some illustrative examples, plenum 212 is used to dispense heated air. In some illustrative examples, air provided by plenum 212 is used to aid a user in drying their hands. In some illustrative examples, air provided by plenum 212 is used to dry surfaces within the lavatory, such as countertops. In some illustrative examples, plenum 212 is optional.
As depicted, flange 208 may also include lighting 214. In some illustrative examples, lighting 214 is called a light lens, a light, or an under-flange light. Lighting 214 may be provided by any desirable quantity or design of lighting items. In some illustrative examples, lighting 214 is positioned to illuminate a countertop of the lavatory.
With respect to the upper cabinet area, the free space behind the upper cabinet may be used to house many of the electronics components for the lavatory. The aircraft interface to wire bundle enters the lavatory at upper cabinet. The lavatory controller brain (described further below) acts as hub to take inputs and use them for distribution and control.
A master lighting switch housed inside mirrored door area allows maintenance technicians to flip lights to full bright for cleaning operations. The illustrative embodiments also provide for access to control additional user inputs, such as lighting color adjustment, scene selection, tamper indication display, etc. If desirable, a ground stud interface may be provided. Additionally, electrical breakers, relays, power boxes, and other electrical features may be provided. If desirable, a smart mirror or two-way mirror may be added, as well as a virtual window control and power boxes.
The following are features that may be provided to various components of the upper cabinet system: A smart mirror system (with integral lighting in screen); a tamper indication system; an in-mirror attendant call switch (capacitive); a two-way mirror; in-mirror lighting/signage with multiple colors and signs available; a reliably mount mirror in correct location; a hidden latch system for the door; tissue and/or towel dispensers; a spring loaded gooseneck hinge; countertop lighting (multiple colors). The upper cabinet system is easily removable without affecting ceiling, backsplash, inboard walls, or outboard walls.
Other options are possible. Other designs of the panels are possible, with more or fewer or different features. Optionally, the space behind the upper cabinets may be reserved for future fixture additions. Thus, the illustrative embodiments are not necessarily limited to the illustrative embodiments shown in
Backsplash assembly 300 includes backsplash sheet 302, which may be provided in a variety of different styles and colors. Faucet 304 extends from backsplash sheet 302. In some illustrative examples, faucet 304 is removably attached to backsplash sheet 302. In some illustrative examples, faucet 304 is attached to a separate component of the lavatory, such as modular shell wall. In these illustrative examples, backsplash sheet 302 is slid over faucet 304. In these illustrative examples, backsplash sheet 302 has an opening through which faucet 304 extends.
Faucet 304 has any desirable aesthetic design. Faucet 304 may be provided in a variety of different styles and colors. Faucet 304 is actuated using any desirable method. An actuator may include a knob, switch, sensor, or any other actuation device. As depicted in
Sensor 306 may be a touchless sensor, or any other desirable sensor, for sensing when a user desires to dispense water from faucet 304. Sensor 306 actuates one or more valves for dispensing water, possibly with hot and cold options, through faucet 304. Water line 308, which is connected to the aircraft's water distribution system when aircraft modular lavatory monument 100 is connected to the aircraft umbilical, provides a conduit for water.
In this illustrative example, faucet 304 is removably attached to backsplash sheet. As depicted, sensor 306 is removably attached to backsplash sheet 302 independently of faucet 304.
The illustrative examples shown in
The sinks and countertops described herein may be injection molded or chopped glass fiber materials with finishes to add ascetic attractiveness. Metals, such as Aluminum, could also be used, though preferably the materials should be strong and lightweight.
The illustrative examples shown in
Turning now to
Lower cabinet assembly 600 includes one and preferably several options mounted to modular shell wall 106. For example, lower cabinet assembly 600 may include drawer 602 for additional storage. Lower cabinet assembly 600 may also include tissue or airsick bag dispenser 604. Lower cabinet assembly 600 may also include attendant call switch or display sign 606.
Lower cabinet assembly 600 may also include waste containment flap 608, which may be either manually actuated (pushed about a hinge or actuated with a foot pedal) or automatically actuated using a sensor in conjunction with a motor on waste containment flap 608. Lower cabinet assembly 600 may also include waste containment door 610 so that a waste receptacle disposed on the other side of waste containment door 610 can be maintenance.
Lower cabinet assembly 600 may also include floor lights 612, which may be provided in a variety of different colors and optionally may change colors during particular phases of flight or at the option of the operator. Lower cabinet assembly 600 may also include toilet paper dispenser 614.
The illustrative embodiments are not necessarily limited to the options shown in
Other features that may be added include a water supply lines; a gray water drain line; sloped plumbing as required by aircraft regulations; a fire extinguisher; a water filter; and others.
Outboard wall 700 and outboard wall 702 may be variations of modular outboard wall 102 of
Outboard wall 700 and outboard wall 702 have different shapes to accommodate different aircraft, as shown. Different features may also be provided. For example, outboard wall 700 may include machined door header 701, whereas outboard wall 702 includes ceiling panel 703. Smoke detector 704 may be included on one or both of the outboard wall designs.
These outboard walls may include different options. For example, the following may be provided: a virtual window; a corner handle; a diaper changing table; a shelf; a speaker (hidden or otherwise); an oxygen dispenser; a toilet seat covers integrated into modular shell wall 106 of
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
As depicted, aft wall 800 of
Also provided are assist handle 810, lighting panels 812, and attachment flange 814 for attaching aft wall 800 to a fuselage within an aircraft, such as fuselage 1702 of aircraft 1700.
As depicted, aft wall 802 of
As depicted, aft wall 820 of
In some illustrative embodiments, the aft wall is provisioned for a large number of interfaces, including attendant seats, such as foldable attendant seat 826. It is desirable for aft walls, such as aft wall 820, to be designed in terms of shape and materials to hold high loads due to attendant seats and other equipment interfaces. Conventional attendant seat plug and sleeve inserts would undesirably be seen from the inside of the lavatory. The aft wall, such as aft wall 800, aft wall 802, or aft wall 820, may have imbedded foam kits and metal details to deal with wire pass throughs and attendant seat mounting.
It is also desirable for an aircraft electrical umbilical to route through the aft wall, so wiring clamshells may be provided in the aft wall. The aft wall may be provided with the aircraft electrical umbilical interface for the lavatory.
Thus,
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
In some illustrative examples, additional structural features are present. For example, toilet shroud 900 may be provided with at least one of electronic latches or a tamper indication system.
As depicted, toilet shroud 900 is a one-piece toilet shroud. Having a one-piece toilet shroud reduces the number of sealing areas for toilet shroud 900. Toilet shroud 900 is designed and manufactured with materials selected to resist wear and tear. Toilet shroud 900 is designed and manufactured with a shape and materials selected based on at least one of manufacturability, aesthetics, ease of cleaning, or other desirable characteristics. Manufacturing a one-piece toilet shroud may use a large manufacturing pressure within a mold or press.
While toilet shroud 900 is shown as being a monolithic shroud, in other illustrative examples, a toilet shroud may be formed of any desirable quantity of pieces. In some illustrative examples, a three-piece shroud may be used. Manufacturing a three-piece toilet shroud reduces the manufacturing pressure in a press. Increasing the quantity of pieces for toilet shroud 900 would also increase the quantity of sealing areas. A three-piece toilet shroud arrangement is shown in
Floor pan 902 includes interface 904 between floor pan 902 and toilet shroud 900. Floor pan 902 is desirably easily removable and replaceable. Floor pan 902 is configured to easily allow floor fitting access in final assembly.
Materials for toilet shroud 900 and floor pan 902 are selected based on at least one of manufacturability, weight, cost, or ease of cleaning. Toilet shroud 900 and floor pan 902 will have high customer exposure in an aircraft. A thermoformed plastic is a useful material for floor pan 902.
In some illustrative examples, floor pan 902 is provided with weep holes to allow water leaks behind toilet shroud 900 to be detected. Floor pan 902 must be sealed up to 4″ around the floor of the lavatory, per government regulations.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. Therefore, the illustrative examples shown in
Toilet shroud 1000 includes three pieces, including panel 1002, bowl shroud 1004, and backing plate 1006. Backing plate 1006 is used to reinforce and secure the attachment of bowl shroud 1004 to panel 1002. The panel 1002 may be clamped between backing plate 1006 and bowl shroud 1004 when fasteners therebetween are tightened.
Each of panel 1002, bowl shroud 1004, and backing plate 1006 is formed of any desirable material. In some illustrative examples, panel 1002 is formed of a different material than either bowl shroud 1004 or backing plate 1006. In some illustrative examples, bowl shroud 1004 and backing plate 1006 are formed of molded polymeric materials. In some illustrative examples, panel 1002 is formed of a composite sandwich material. In some illustrative examples, panel 1002 is formed of a crush core fiberglass panel.
As depicted, insert 1010 is provided in bowl shroud 1004. In some illustrative examples, insert 1010 is a threaded metal insert. Insert 1010 is configured to receive a fastener. Insert 1010 increases the strength of connections between bowl shroud 1004 and backing plate 1006. Insert 1010 may aid in the repeatability of assembly and disassembly. Insert 1010 may be installed through heating or ultrasonic installation.
In some other illustrative examples, fasteners extend through backing plate 1006 and are tightened directly into bowl shroud 1004. In these illustrative examples, insert 1010 is not present.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
Door 1100, door 1102, and door 1104 all show different door arrangements and features, any of which could be removably attached to a particular aircraft lavatory monument. Door 1106 illustrates a specific illustrative embodiment which shows a possible “look and feel” of a particular door design.
As depicted, each of the doors, door 1100, door 1102, door 1104, and door 1106, includes vent 1108 to allow air exchange between the inside of the aircraft lavatory monument and the rest of the interior of the fuselage of the aircraft. Vent 1108 may be sized, dimensioned, and designed to prevent flame from exiting the lavatory. In some illustrative examples, vent 1108 includes two louvre assemblies. In these illustrative examples, the louvres are configured to create a “tortuous path.” The “tortuous path” reduces or eliminates flame paths through vent 1108. In some illustrative examples, a screen is sandwiched between the two louvre assemblies. The screen is configured to provide additional flame containment. In some illustrative examples, the louvre assemblies are mirror images of each other about the screen.
In
Additional features may be provided. For example, mirror 1114, assist handle 1116, ashtray 1118, or additional features may be added. For example, the door may be a power door. Lighting may be provided for the latch or assist handle. Edge potted inserts may be provided.
Although each of door 1100, door 1102, door 1104, and door 1106 is depicted as a slab door with a single hinge, a door for an aircraft modular lavatory monument may take any desirable form. The door may be a bifold door, a pocket door, a multiply hinged door, or other type of door. The door may be provided with a lock override so that staff can enter a locked lavatory to assist a person in need. An illuminated occupancy indication light may be provided. A limit switch and sensor may be present to so that a display or sign can indicate when the door is open, closed, or locked. The door may be provided with pinchless hinges.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
Ballistic intrusion barrier 1200 is an optional component present in selected lavatory monuments. Ballistic intrusion barrier 1200 may be used in lavatory monuments in the front of a passenger cabin in an aircraft.
Ballistic intrusion barrier 1200 may include shield 1202, which may be formed from titanium or other ballistically resistant material, including ceramics, honey-combed layered composite materials, and others. Shield 1202 of ballistic intrusion barrier 1200 is joined to panel 1203. Panel 1203 is formed of any desirable ballistically resistant material. In some illustrative examples, panel 1203 is formed of layers of aramid fibers. Ballistic inserts, such as ballistic insert 1204, extend through panel 1203. Ballistic inserts provide connection points for joining structures to panel 1203. Ballistic inserts provide additional shielding in locations where fasteners extend through panel 1203. In some illustrative examples, ballistic inserts provide additional shielding in the form of a metal plate of the ballistic insert.
Ballistic intrusion barrier 1200 also comprises side wall 1206. Side wall 1206 is formed of titanium or any desirable ballistically resistant material. Side wall 1206 may be provided with a door hinge interface 1208 in some illustrative embodiments.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
Lavatory control module 1300 may control various aspects of the lighting for aircraft modular lavatory monument 100. For example, lavatory control module 1300 may control lavatory status lights 1304. These may be variously colored lights, such as but not limited to red, green, and amber, that indicate lavatory occupancy or the status of an attendant call.
In another example, lavatory control module 1300 may control wash lights 1306. These lights may be high lumen lights to serve as the primary light source for aircraft modular lavatory monument 100. A variety of colors, possibly variable colors, may be provided. Such lights can be mounted in the ceiling, upper cabinet, or walls of aircraft modular lavatory monument 100.
In yet another example, lavatory control module 1300 may control accent lights 1308. Accent lights include countertop lights, backsplash lights, and/or kick accent lighting. A variety of colors, possibly variable colors, may be provided.
In still another example, lavatory control module 1300 may include mirror lights 1310. Mirror lights are preferably soft, warm lights that shine through or on the mirror such that a person's face is illuminated when looking in the mirror. The terms “soft” and “warm” are understood by the ordinary artisan, such as for example as described on the product labels of commercially available lights.
In another illustrative embodiment, lavatory control module 1300 may include return to seat sign 1312. This sign may be a light emitting diode (LED) that may shine through the mirror, or may be located elsewhere in aircraft modular lavatory monument 100. The control logic for this sign is preferably transferred through aircraft electrical umbilical 1302 into lavatory control module 1300 to return to seat sign 1312.
In still another illustrative embodiment, lavatory control module 1300 may include flush button 1314. This button may be a light emitting diode that illuminates and thus easily identifies the button used to actuate flushing of the toilet.
In yet another illustrative embodiment, lavatory control module 1300 may include attendant call switch 1318. This switch may be a light emitting diode that illuminates when pushed and turns off with the lavatory status switch.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
Water system 1500 may have two almost entirely separate sub-systems, specifically potable water system 1502 and gray water system 1504. These two systems do not interact, except that faucet outlet 1506 (drain) of the potable water system 1502 drains into a common water line with sink drain 1508 of the gray water system 1504.
Water system 1500 also includes supply valve 1510, which governs the supply of water from water tank 1512 into water line 1514. Water line 1514 connects to water heater 1516 via optionally mix valve 1518. Water line 1514 also connects to toilet 1520, which is controlled by touchless sensor 1522. Optionally, water line 1514 may connect to drain valve 1524.
Water heater 1516 may connect to faucet valve 1526, which is controlled by touchless sensor 1528. Faucet valve 1526 empties into faucet outlet 1506 into sink drain 1508 of gray water system 1504.
As indicated above, gray water system 1504 includes sink drain 1508. Sink drain 1508 connects to auto drain valve 1530, which in turn empties into drain mast 1532, where waste water is stored for disposal by a ground crew during ground maintenance. Optionally, vent inlet 1534 may also empty into drain mast 1532. Optionally, ECS supply plenum 1536 and door grille 1538 may be connected to vent inlet 1534.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustrative examples shown in
Control system 1600 includes control module 1602, which connects to aircraft electrical umbilical 1604, as well as the sub-components of control system 1600. Control module 1602 may be an implementation of control module 1738 of
For example, aft wall sub-component 1606 is connected to both control module 1602 and aircraft electrical umbilical 1604. Aft wall sub-component 1606 includes emergency exit sign 1608 and possible proximity light 1610.
In another example, system panel/ceiling sub-component 1612 is connected to control module 1602 as well as aircraft electrical umbilical 1604. System panel/ceiling sub-component 1612 includes wash light 1614, smoke detector 1616, speaker 1618, and oxygen box 1620.
In yet another example, inboard wall sub-component 1622 is connected to control module 1602. Inboard wall sub-component 1622 includes lavatory status light 1624, switch-door lock 1626, and switch-door open 1628.
In still another example, lower cabinet/backsplash sub-component 1630 is connected to control module 1602. Lower cabinet/backsplash sub-component 1630 includes water heater 1632, faucet valve 1634, accent light 1636, accent light 1638, faucet sensor 1640 and switch/attendant call button 1642.
In another illustrative embodiment, toilet sub-component 1644 is connected to control module 1602. Toilet sub-component 1644 includes toilet 1646 and flush button or sensor 1648. Thus, via a sensor, toilet 1646 may automatically flush when a user is sensed getting up from the toilet.
In yet another illustrative embodiment, upper cabinet sub-component 1650 may be connected to control module 1602. Upper cabinet sub-component 1650 may include switch-light manager 1652, accent light 1654, accent light 1656, accent light 1658, accent light 1660, mirror light 1662, mirror light 1664, return to seat sign 1666, and wash light 1668.
Legend 1670 is also provided in
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. Therefore, the illustrative examples shown in
Aircraft 1700 may include fuselage 1702 and lavatory monument 1704. Lavatory monument 1704 is removably mounted inside the fuselage 1702. Lavatory monument 1704 may be referred to as a modular lavatory monument. Lavatory monument 1704 is subject to aircraft regulatory requirements. Thus, lavatory monument 1704 cannot easily import features and designs from bathrooms which were not designed specifically for an aircraft.
Lavatory monument 1704 includes an outboard wall 1706 removably connected to an inside surface of the fuselage 1702. Lavatory monument 1704 also includes shell wall 1708 removably connected to the outboard wall 1706 and extending radially inwardly relative to the fuselage 1702.
Lavatory monument 1704 also includes floor panel 1710 connected to and between the outboard wall 1706 and the shell wall 1708. Floor panel 1710 connects to a floor within fuselage 1702 of aircraft 1700. Lavatory monument 1704 also includes toilet shroud 1712 connected to the floor panel 1710.
Lavatory monument 1704 also includes plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 individually removably attached to at least one of: the outboard wall 1706, the shell wall 1708, the floor panel 1710, or the toilet shroud 1712. Each of the plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 is configured to be individually removable. When a lavatory fixture is “individually removable,” removal of one lavatory fixture does not require removal of any other of the plurality of lavatory fixtures. Common interface points 1716 on each of the plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 are unchangeable with respect to the lavatory monument 1704.
Aircraft 1700 may be varied. For example, lavatory monument 1704 may also include ballistic intrusion barrier 1718 connected to the outboard wall 1706 adjacent the ballistic intrusion barrier 1718 and extending radially inwardly relative to the fuselage 1702. In another illustrative embodiment, one of the plurality of lavatory fixtures may be a toilet shroud removably attached to the toilet. In this case, the toilet shroud also connected to the outboard wall.
Other variations are possible. For example, the aircraft may be further modified such that the lavatory monument 1704 includes aft wall 1720 and plurality of non-lavatory fixtures 1722 connected to a second side of aft wall 1720. The aft wall 1720 is removably attached to outboard wall 1706 opposite shell wall 1708 and extending radially inwardly relative to fuselage 1702. A first side of aft wall 1720 faces an interior of the lavatory monument 1704. In an illustrative embodiment, plurality of non-lavatory fixtures 1722 may be one or more of the group consisting of: a computer, a display, a cabinet, a drawer, a lock-box, and an instrument panel.
Still other variations are possible. For example, the plurality of lavatory fixtures may include two or more objects selected from the group consisting of: a sink, a faucet, a cabinet, an alcove panel shaped to present an alcove inside the lavatory monument, a toilet paper holder, a drawer, a liquid hose line, a soap dispenser, a soap holder, a towel dispenser, a towel holder, a drawer, a backsplash, a waste receptacle, a counter top, a light strip, a light bulb, a lightable sign, a mirror, a display device, a speaker, a crew signal button, a switch, a panel, a cup holder, an airsick bag dispenser, a tissue dispenser, a sanitary napkin dispenser, a cologne rack, and a shelf.
In a different illustrative embodiment, lavatory monument 1704 may include door 1724 connected to shell wall 1708. Door 1724 may be one of a folding door and a slab door. Door 1724 may also include a lock 1726 which, when actuated, activates all of: locking the door, activating a no-vacancy sign displayed outside the door, and a lighting scenery scheme.
In another illustrative embodiment, lavatory monument 1704 may include floor pan 1728 removably connected to floor panel 1710 of the lavatory monument in front of the toilet. In still another illustrative embodiment, one or more of the plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 comprises a plurality of sub-assemblies that are removably connected to a given lavatory fixture such that removal and replacement of one of the plurality of sub-assemblies does not require removal of any other of the plurality of sub-assemblies. A sub-assembly comprises any desirable set of lavatory fixtures. In one illustrative example, a sub-assembly comprises a backsplash, a faucet, and a liquid hose line. In this illustrative example, the sub-assembly may be installed and removed from the lavatory without removing any other sub-assemblies.
In still another illustrative embodiment, aircraft 1700 also includes electrical wiring system 1730. In this case, each of the plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 that require electricity is removably connected to the electrical wiring system 1730. In this case, aircraft 1700 may also include computer 1732. In this case, the lavatory monument 1704 is removably connectable to the computer 1732 and the computer 1732 is configured to control one or both of: electrical fixtures or display fixtures in the lavatory monument 1704.
In yet another illustrative embodiment, aircraft 1700 may include air duct system 1734. In this case lavatory monument 1704 has an air duct that is removably connectable to the air duct system 1734.
In an illustrative embodiment, the plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 includes a faucet, a fluid line, a sink, a drain, and a backsplash, wherein the faucet is removably connected to the fluid line, the fluid line is removably connected to the backsplash, the sink is removably connected to the shell wall, and the drain is removably connected to the sink. In another illustrative embodiment, the plurality of lavatory fixtures 1714 further includes lighting 1736 removably disposed underneath a counter at about foot level.
In still another illustrative embodiment, lavatory monument may include further features. For example, lavatory monument 1704 may include control module 1738 connectable to an aircraft electrical umbilical. In this case, control module 1738 may be removably connected to all or some of a variety of sub-components. The sub-components may include an upper cabinet sub-component; an inboard wall sub-component; a toilet sub-component; a lower cabinet and backsplash sub-component; a systems panel and ceiling sub-component; and an aft wall sub-component. In an illustrative embodiment, the aircraft electrical umbilical is also removably connectable to the aft wall sub-component and the systems panel and ceiling sub-component.
Other options, styles, and arrangements are also possible. The illustration of aircraft 1700 in
For example, each of outboard wall 1706, shell wall 1708, and aft wall 1720 has common interface points. In some illustrative examples, aft wall 1720 has common interface points that do not change with different options for aft wall 1720. Additionally, each of plurality of non-lavatory fixtures 1722 has common interface points. The common interface points on each of plurality of non-lavatory fixtures 1722 provides for ease of removal and replacement of sub-assemblies connected to aft wall 1720.
As indicated, method 1800 may be implemented in aircraft 1700 of
Method 1800 includes removing the lavatory fixture while retaining the lavatory monument in place (operation 1802). Method 1800 also includes replacing the lavatory fixture (operation 1804). In one illustrative embodiment, the method may terminate thereafter.
Method 1800 may be varied. For example, assume that the lavatory monument further includes: a control module connectable to an aircraft electrical umbilical, the control module removably connected to all of: an upper cabinet sub-component; an inboard wall sub-component; a toilet sub-component; a lower cabinet and backsplash sub-component; a systems panel and ceiling sub-component; and an aft wall sub-component. In this case, method 1800 may also include removing the lavatory fixture while retaining the control module and all sub-components (operation 1806). In one illustrative embodiment, the method may terminate thereafter.
Still other variations are possible. More or fewer operations may be present, or different operations may be present. The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodiments illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of some possible implementations of apparatus and methods in an illustrative embodiment. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams may represent a module, a segment, a function, and/or a portion of an operation or step.
In some alternative implementations of an illustrative embodiment, the function or functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be performed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Also, other blocks may be added, in addition to the illustrated blocks, in a flowchart or block diagram. In some illustrative examples, not all blocks are performed and some blocks may be optional, in a flowchart or block diagram.
Illustrative embodiments of the disclosure may be described in the context of aircraft manufacturing and service method 1900 as shown in
During production, component and subassembly manufacturing 1906 and system integration 1908 of aircraft 2000 in
Each of the processes of aircraft manufacturing and service method 1900 may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator. In these examples, the operator may be a customer. For the purposes of this description, a system integrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major-system subcontractors; a third party may include, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator may be an airline, a leasing company, a military entity, a service organization, and so on.
With reference now to
Apparatuses and methods embodied herein may be employed during at least one of the stages of aircraft manufacturing and service method 1900 in
One or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof may be utilized while aircraft 2000 is in service 1912 and/or during maintenance and service 1914 in
The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different illustrative embodiments may provide different features as compared to other illustrative embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
This application is related to U.S. Pat. No. ______ filed concurrently with this application, and titled “Improved Aft Wall for a Lavatory Monument of an Aircraft”, Attorney Docket No. 18-0455-US-NP; this application is related to U.S. Pat. No. ______ filed concurrently with this application, and titled “Modular Faucet System for Aircraft”, Attorney Docket No. 18-0497-US-NP; the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.