CN114104295A

CN114104295A - Ventilation system and method for an interior compartment of a vehicle

Info

Publication number: CN114104295A
Application number: CN202110912276.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: B·J·米切尔; T·拉森; B·A·范戴克; R·罗德; T·M·莱布
Original assignee: Boeing Co
Current assignee: Boeing Co
Priority date: 2020-08-28
Filing date: 2021-08-10
Publication date: 2022-03-01
Also published as: JP2022040109A

Abstract

A system (100) includes one or more distribution nozzles (106) associated with seats (108) within an interior space and a return air grille (110) associated with the seats (108). The airflow (112) is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) toward the return air grille (110) and into the return air grille (110). A method includes associating one or more distribution nozzles (106) with a seat (108) within an interior space, associating a return air grill (110) with the seat (108), and directing an airflow (112) from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) toward the return air grill (110) and into the return air grill (110).

Description

Ventilation system and method for an interior compartment of a vehicle

Technical Field

Embodiments of the subject disclosure relate generally to ventilation systems and methods for interior compartments of vehicles, such as commercial aircraft.

Background

Vehicles, such as commercial aircraft, are used to transport passengers between different locations. Many commercial vehicles, such as aircraft, have High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters in the air conditioning system that are capable of capturing microorganisms and pathogens. The HEPA filter receives and cleans air that exits the chamber or is about to enter the chamber. HEPA filters and frequent cleaning of the cabin between flights are some of the methods of ensuring the health of passengers and crew onboard the aircraft.

Further, some passengers may prefer to wear a mask within the interior compartment of the vehicle to reduce the risk of transmitting pathogens. However, wearing a mask during long flights, for example, may be uncomfortable for some passengers.

Disclosure of Invention

There is a need for a system and method for preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the spread of pathogens between passengers on a vehicle during travel, such as between passengers in the interior cabin of an aircraft during flight, without risking injury to the passengers.

In view of this need, certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a system that includes one or more distribution nozzles associated with seats within an interior space and a return air grille associated with the seats. The airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

In at least one embodiment, the one or more distribution nozzles are above the seat and the return air grille is below at least a portion of the seat. For example, at least a portion of the seat includes a seat cushion upon which the occupant sits.

As an example, the one or more distribution nozzles include at least five distribution nozzles.

In at least one embodiment, the air distribution subsystem provides clean air to one or more distribution nozzles.

In at least one embodiment, one or more outflow valves are fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

In at least one embodiment, the air filtration subsystem is fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

As an example, the one or more distribution nozzles are part of a passenger service unit within an interior compartment of the vehicle.

In at least one embodiment, a side return air grille is disposed to one or both of the side walls or floor of the interior space. The return air grille is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille.

In at least one embodiment, the return air grille is mounted to the floor of the interior space. In at least one other embodiment, a return air grille is mounted to a portion of the seat.

As a further example, the system further includes one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

As a further example, the system includes a plenum mounted to a floor of the interior space. The plenum includes a filter and a fan.

Certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a method comprising: associating one or more distribution nozzles with a seat within the interior space; associating a return air grille with the seat; the airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

Certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a vehicle comprising an interior compartment, a plurality of seats within the interior compartment, and a ventilation system comprising one or more distribution nozzles and a return air grille associated with each of the plurality of seats. The airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

Drawings

Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a ventilation system for an interior compartment of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 2 illustrates an interior view of a portion of an interior compartment of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 3 illustrates a simplified interior view of a portion of an interior compartment with distribution nozzles disposed above passengers in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Figure 4 illustrates a top perspective view of a passenger service unit according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the passenger service unit of figure 4.

Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a passenger in a seat within an interior compartment according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a return air grille positioned below a seat cushion of a seat in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Figure 8 illustrates a simplified side view of a seat according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Figure 9 illustrates an interior view of a portion of an interior compartment of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Figure 10 illustrates an interior view of a portion of an interior compartment of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Figure 11 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 12A illustrates a top plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 12B illustrates a top plan view of an interior cabin of an aircraft in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 13 illustrates a perspective interior view of an interior compartment of an aircraft in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Fig. 14 illustrates a flow chart of a method for ventilation of an interior space, such as an interior compartment of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure.

Detailed Description

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not necessarily excluding plural elements or steps. Further, references to "one embodiment" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or a plurality of elements having a particular condition may include additional elements not having that condition.

Certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a ventilation system for an interior space (e.g., an interior cabin of a vehicle such as a commercial aircraft). The ventilation system includes one or more distribution nozzles associated with the seats and a return air grille associated with the seats. In at least one embodiment, each seat within the interior compartment has one or more distribution nozzles and a return air grille associated therewith. For example, one or more distribution nozzles are disposed above the seat, and a return air grille is mounted below and/or above a portion of the seat. In this way, the airflow is directed in a vertical direction downward relative to the seat. By providing an airflow directed downwardly relative to the seat, fresh, clean air is provided to the occupant in the seat while also minimizing or otherwise reducing the air introduced into the breathing zone (such as from an occupant seated through the seat). The air is received by the return air grille and directed away from the passengers and other passengers within the interior compartment. In this manner, embodiments of the subject disclosure are configured to provide plug air flow (also referred to as unidirectional flow or plug flow) or near plug air flow performance within the interior compartment that minimizes or otherwise reduces the likelihood of transmission of pathogens among passengers within the interior compartment.

Certain embodiments of the subject disclosure provide a ventilation system that provides airflow over a passenger. The airflow moves vertically downward to a return air grille associated with the seats within the interior compartment. The downward vertical airflow provides a path for clean air to the passenger and ventilates air exhaled from the passenger away from other passengers. The ventilation systems and methods described herein reduce the spread of pathogens within the interior compartment of a vehicle.

Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a ventilation system 100 for an interior compartment 104 of a vehicle 104, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the vehicle 104 is a commercial aircraft. The interior compartment 104 is an example of an interior space. Other examples of interior spaces include rooms within a building.

The ventilation system 100 includes one or more distribution nozzles 106 associated with seats 108 within the interior compartment 104. For example, each seat 108 is assigned or otherwise provided with its own distribution nozzle(s) 106. Further, a return air grille 110 is associated with the seat 108. For example, each seat 108 is assigned or otherwise provided with its own return air grille 110.

In at least one embodiment, one or more distribution nozzles 106 are above the seat 108, and a return air grille 110 is positioned (e.g., mounted) below the seat 108 and/or on a portion of the seat 108. In at least one embodiment, each seat 108 within the interior compartment 104 is associated with one or more distribution nozzles 106 and a return air grille 110. In at least one other embodiment, fewer than all of the seats 108 in the interior compartment 104 are associated with one or more distribution nozzles 106 and a return air grille 110.

In at least one embodiment, the one or more distribution nozzles 106 include at least two distribution nozzles 106. For example, five or more distribution nozzles 106 may be associated with a seat 108. Increasing the number of distribution nozzles 106 in the inner chamber 102 decreases but more evenly distributes the flow rate of the airflow 112 exiting the distribution nozzles 106. Optionally, a single distribution nozzle 106 is associated with the seat 108.

In at least one embodiment, the distribution nozzle(s) 106 are configured to provide a curtain of air (air current) that directs the airflow toward the return air grille 110. The air curtain may be directed to the side and/or rear of the occupant in the seat 108 in front of the occupant in the seat 108.

The distribution nozzle(s) 106 are disposed above the seats 108 and the return air grille 110 is disposed below the seat cushion 114 of the seat 108 on which the occupant sits. In this way, the airflow 112 is directed from the distribution nozzle(s) 106 down to the return air grill 110. Because the airflow 112 is directed vertically downward from the distribution nozzle(s) 106 to the return air grill 110, the airflow 112 has reduced turbulence or mixing. In this way, the airflow 112 can flow smoothly around obstacles such as a part of the seat 108 and a passenger sitting on the seat 108. In this manner, clean, fresh air is provided to the occupant of the seat 108. The passengers inhale fresh, clean air and are then exhaled and directed to the air in the return air grill 110 by the downwardly flowing airflow 112. Thus, contaminants, pathogens, or the like are less likely to be mixed into the air within the interior compartment, but instead are directed out into the return air grille 110. Alternatively, the airflow 112 may be turbulent or semi-turbulent.

In at least one embodiment, airflow 112 is directed over the head of the occupant and/or into and/or toward the breathing zone of the occupant. As such, the airflow 112 entrains the discharged bioaerosols (e.g., from talking, sneezing, coughing, breathing, or the like), which will then be directed into the return air grille 110.

The distribution nozzle(s) 106 are fluidly coupled to an air distribution subsystem 116 of the vehicle 104 by one or more air conduits 118, such as one or more pipes, one or more ducts, one or more plenums, and/or the like. The return air grill 110 is fluidly coupled to one or more outflow valves 120 and/or an air filtration subsystem 122 (such as may include one or more air filters, fans, and the like) by one or more air conduits 124 (such as one or more pipes, one or more ducts, one or more plenums, and/or the like). The air filtration subsystem 122, in turn, is fluidly coupled to the air distribution subsystem 116 by one or more air conduits 126 (such as one or more pipes, one or more ducts, one or more plenums, and/or the like). Alternatively, the ventilation system 100 may not include the air filtration subsystem 122. Instead, the return air grill 110 may be coupled only to the outflow valve(s) 120. In some options, the ventilation system 100 may not include the outflow valve(s) 120. Instead, the return air grille 110 may be coupled only to the air filtration subsystem 122.

In operation, the air distribution subsystem 116 provides fresh, clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles 106. For example, the air distribution subsystem 116 provides fresh, clean air directed from outside the vehicle 104 to the distribution nozzle(s) 106. As a further example with respect to commercial aircraft, air is drawn from the engine and received by an air conditioning subsystem, such as may be below or otherwise proximate the wing box. The air conditioning subsystem receives hot, high pressure air from the engine and conditions the air, which is then output as cold, dry, and low pressure air, which is then delivered to the bulkhead in the pressurized area of the aircraft. The air may then be mixed in a mixing room that also receives purified and clean air from the air filtration subsystem 122. The mixed air may then be delivered by the air distribution subsystem 116 as fresh, clean air.

The distribution nozzle 106 receives clean, fresh air from the air distribution subsystem 116 and outputs an airflow 112 that is a laminar flow in a downward vertical direction from above the occupant in the seat 108 in the direction of arrow a (i.e., from above the occupant to below the occupant) toward the return air grille 110. Alternatively, the airflow 112 may be turbulent or semi-turbulent. In this way, the occupant in the seat 108 is provided with fresh, clean air. Air exhaled by the occupant in the seat 108 is drawn by airflow 112 down into the return air grille 110 and/or onto a surface (such as the floor, armrests, the occupant's clothing, and/or the like), which may be cleaned later. Thus, the air exhaled from the passengers (including any contaminants, pathogens, or the like) is not mixed into the air in the interior compartment 104, but is instead drawn into the return air grille 110. The airflow received by the return air grill 110 is then delivered to an outflow valve 120, which outflow valve 120 discharges the air out of the vehicle 104 and/or into an air filtration subsystem 122, which air filtration subsystem 122 includes a filter (such as a HEPA filter) that removes contaminants, pathogens, and the like from the air. The purified air is then delivered to the air distribution subsystem 116 through air conduit(s) 126.

As described herein, the ventilation system 100 includes one or more distribution nozzles 106, the one or more distribution nozzles 106 being associated with seats 108 within an interior space, such as the interior compartment 104. A return air grille 110 is also associated with the seat 108. The airflow 112 is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles 106 toward the return air grill 110 and into the return air grill 110.

Further, in at least one embodiment, the vehicle 104 includes an interior compartment 104. A plurality of seats 108 are within the interior compartment 104. The ventilation system 100 includes one or more distribution nozzles 106 and a return air grille 110 associated with each of a plurality of seats 108. The airflow 112 is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles 106 toward the return air grill 110 and into the return air grill 110.

Fig. 2 illustrates an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 of the vehicle 104 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, three seats 108 may be in a row. A distribution nozzle 106 is disposed above each seat 108. Further, a return air grille 110 is provided beneath the seat cushion 114 of each seat 108. The airflow 112 flows from the distribution nozzle 106 in a downward direction as represented by arrow a over the seat 108 and around the seat 108 (and the occupant of the seat 108) into the return air grille 110.

In at least one embodiment, the distribution nozzle 106 is part of, connected to, or otherwise proximate to a Passenger Service Unit (PSU)200 (such as mounted within 6 inches or less) the Passenger Service Unit (PSU)200, the Passenger Service Unit (PSU)200 being outside and below the trunk assembly 202. Further, the return air grille 110 is fluidly coupled to a side return air grille 204, such as a sidewall 206 that is disposed proximate a floor 210 of the interior compartment 102 by an air duct 208. Air received by the return air grill 110 associated with the seat 108 is drawn into the side return air grill 204 and may then be drawn through low pressure into the outflow valve 120 and/or the air filtration subsystem 122, which outflow valve 120 and/or air filtration subsystem 122 may be below the floor 210 of the interior compartment 104. Alternatively, the return air grill 110 may be directly coupled to the outflow valve 120 and/or the air filtration subsystem 122 without being in fluid communication with the side return air grill 204.

In at least one embodiment, the distribution nozzle 106 is part of the PSU 200. For example, the distribution nozzle 106 is an air nozzle, outlet, or the like of the PSU 200. In at least another embodiment, the distribution nozzle 106 is different from the PSU 200. For example, the distribution nozzle 106 may be part of a source of vent (gasper) air.

In at least one embodiment, a plurality of distribution nozzles 106 are associated with each seat 108. For example, four to ten distribution nozzles 106 are associated with each seat 108. Alternatively, a single distribution nozzle 106 is associated with each seat 108. In some examples, the one or more distribution nozzles 106 are configured to direct an air curtain downward, the air curtain being directed to a side of a passenger in front of one or more seats, in front of a passenger in a seat, and/or the like. For example, the distribution nozzle(s) 106 are aimed toward the return air grille 110 such that a curtain of air entrains cabin air and air exhaled by passengers in the seats 108, which then flows into the return air grille 110.

Fig. 3 illustrates a simplified interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 with the distribution nozzle 106 disposed above the passenger 214 in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. As one non-limiting example, the distribution nozzle 106 is coupled to one or more vent booster fans 216 mounted within a plenum 218 of the PSU 200.

Fresh air 221 from air distribution subsystem 116 (shown in fig. 1) is delivered to vent booster fan 216 via air distribution line 220. Fresh air 221 flows out of an outlet 222 of the air distribution duct 220 and is drawn into an inlet 224 of the PSU 200, such as via the plenum fan 216. The vent booster fan 216 then outputs the fresh air 221 via the distribution nozzle 106 as an airflow 112 (shown in fig. 1 and 2) over the passengers 214 and toward the return air grill 110, as described herein. In some examples, general cabin air is drawn into the PSU 200 by the vent booster fan 216, travels through HEPA filters within the PSU 200, and then out of the distribution nozzles 106 toward the return air grille.

Fig. 4 illustrates a top perspective view of the PSU 200 of fig. 3, in accordance with embodiments of the subject disclosure. Fig. 5 illustrates a top view of the passenger service unit 200 of fig. 4. Referring to fig. 3-5, one or more fans 230 and/or filters 232 (such as HEPA filters) may be disposed within the plenum 218. A plurality of inlets 224 may be formed in the PSU 200. An outlet 234 is formed in the PSU 200. The distribution nozzle 106 extends into the outlet 234 and/or extends through the outlet 234.

The PSU 200 may include a plurality of distribution nozzles 106. For example, the PSU 200 may include at least three distribution nozzles 106.

Fig. 3-5 illustrate a non-limiting example of distribution nozzle(s) 106 as part of a PSU 200. It should be understood that this is only an example. The PSU 200 may include more or fewer distribution nozzles 106 than shown. Further, the distribution nozzles 106 may be arranged differently than shown. In some embodiments, the distribution nozzle 106 may be separate and distinct from the PSU 200. That is, the PSU 200 may not include a distribution nozzle 106 as described herein. Further, the distribution nozzle(s) 106 may or may not be directly or indirectly coupled to the vent booster fan(s).

Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an occupant 214 in a seat 108 within the interior cabin 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. As shown, the return air grille 110 is mounted to (and/or within) the floor 210 of the interior compartment 104 below the seat cushion 114. In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is below the seat cushion 114 of each seat 108.

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the return air grille 110 positioned below the seat cushion 114 of the seat 108 in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. In at least one example, the return air grill 110 includes a housing 240 having a perimeter frame 242, the perimeter frame 242 holding a panel 244 having a plurality of inlet passages 246. The airflow 212 is drawn into the return air grill 110 through the inlet passage 246. The return grill 110 may include internal baffles to balance the received airflow 112. The return air grill 110 may be a cushion that is supported on the floor 210. Optionally, the return air grille 110 may be at least partially recessed into the floor 210.

In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is attached to a seat track fitting of the seat 108. The seat track fittings seat the seats to the seat tracks within the interior cabin 104. Optionally, the return air grille 110 is not attached to the seat track fitting. For example, the return air grill 110 may be mounted directly to the floor 210, such as by separate and distinct fasteners, adhesives, and/or the like. In some examples, the return air grill 110 may be integrally formed with the floor 210.

In at least one embodiment, the return air grill 110 is coupled to the side return air grill 204 (shown in fig. 2) by a conduit 208. By way of example, the air conduit 208 may be or otherwise include a flexible hose, tube, or the like.

Referring to fig. 6 and 7, the return air grill 110 is parallel to the floor 210. For example, the return air grille 110 is oriented horizontally with respect to the interior compartment 104. Alternatively, the return air grille 110 may be oriented differently.

Fig. 8 illustrates a simplified side view of a seat 108 in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. In this embodiment, the return air grille 110 is below the seat cushion 114, but orthogonal to the floor 210. For example, the return air grille 110 is upright relative to the floor, such as vertically oriented relative to the interior compartment 104. In at least one embodiment, the return air grille 110 is mounted to at least a portion of the seat 108, such as one or more portions of the legs that support the seat 108 on the floor 210. As shown, the return air grille 110 may be disposed below the seat cushion 114 and configured to be positioned behind the lower leg 215 of the seated passenger 214.

Fig. 9 illustrates an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 of the vehicle 104 in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. In this embodiment, in addition to the distribution nozzles 106 being located directly above the one or more seats 108, the one or more distribution nozzles 106 are also located above the aisle 250 within the interior compartment 104. For example, the additional distribution nozzles 106 are at a centerline ceiling location within the inner compartment 104. The distribution nozzle 106 provides additional airflow 112, such as to inboard passengers who may not be directly below the distribution nozzle 106.

Fig. 10 illustrates an interior view of a portion of the interior compartment 104 of the vehicle 104 in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. In at least one example, the interior compartment 104 includes a first outboard group 108a of seats 108, a middle group 108b of seats 108, and a second outboard group 108c of seats 108. The first outer group 108a is separated from the middle group 108b by a first aisle 250a, and the second outer group 108c is separated from the middle group 108b by a second aisle 250 b.

By way of example, the middle group 108b of seats 108 includes a floor-mounted (or seat-mounted) plenum 260, the plenum 260 having a filter 262 (such as a HEPA filter) and a fan 264. Air is drawn into the plenum 260 by the fan 264, routed through the filter 262, and ejected into the

aisles

250a and 250b near the floor 210. The floor mounted plenums 270 of the first and second

outside groups

108a and 108c draw air emitted from the plenums 260 and route the drawn air to the side return air grills 208 (shown in fig. 1), the return air grills 110, and/or the like, as described herein.

1-10, embodiments of the subject disclosure provide systems and methods for generating an airflow 112 (such as a smooth, laminar airflow) over passengers within an interior compartment 104. The airflow 112 flows in a top-down direction from the distribution nozzles 106 above the passengers toward the return air grill 110 disposed below at least some of the passengers and into the return air grill 110. The smooth, laminar flow provides fresh, clean air for passenger breathing while also drawing exhaled air into the return air grille 110, thereby preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the likelihood of exhaled air from remaining within the interior compartment 104 (as compared to a turbulent, circular flow of air).

Fig. 11 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft 310 according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure. Aircraft 310 is an example of vehicle 104 shown in FIG. 1.

For example, the aircraft 310 includes a propulsion system 312, the propulsion system 312 including an engine 314. Alternatively, propulsion system 312 may include more engines 314 than shown. The engine 314 is carried by a wing 316 of the aircraft 310. In other embodiments, the engine 314 may be carried by the fuselage 318 and/or the empennage 320. Tail 320 may also support horizontal stabilizers 322 and vertical stabilizers 324.

The fuselage 318 of the aircraft 310 defines an interior compartment 330, the interior compartment 330 including a cockpit or cockpit, one or more work zones (e.g., galleys, personal carry-on luggage areas, and the like), one or more passenger zones (e.g., first class, business class, and long-haul passenger compartment zones), one or more lavatories, and/or the like.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the subject disclosure may be used in various other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and railcars, boats, and the like. Further, embodiments of the subject disclosure may be used with respect to fixed structures such as commercial and residential buildings (e.g., theaters, concert halls, auditoriums, classrooms, stadiums, grocery stores, office buildings, hospitals, and the like).

Fig. 12A illustrates a top plan view of an interior compartment 330 of an aircraft in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. The interior compartment 330 may be within a fuselage 332 of an aircraft, such as the fuselage 318 of fig. 11. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define an interior compartment 330. The interior cabin 330 includes a plurality of sections including a front section 333, a first class section 334, a business class section 336, a front galley station 338, an extended economy or coach compartment section 340, a standard economy class section 342, and an aft section 344, which may include a plurality of washrooms and galley stations. It should be understood that the interior compartment 330 may include more or fewer sections than shown. For example, the interior compartment 330 may not include a first-class compartment section, and may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each of the sections may be separated by a cabin transition region 346, which cabin transition region 346 may include a grade divider assembly between aisles 348.

As shown in fig. 12A, the interior compartment 330 includes two

aisles

350 and 352 leading to the aft section 344. Alternatively, the interior compartment 330 may have fewer or more aisles than shown. For example, the interior compartment 330 may include a single aisle that extends through the center of the interior compartment 330 and opens into the aft section 344.

The

aisles

348, 350, and 352 extend to an exit path or door passage 360. An exit gate 362 is located at the end of the exit path 360. The exit path 360 may be perpendicular to the

aisles

348, 350, and 352. The inner compartment 330 may include more exit paths 360 at different orientations than shown. The ventilation system 100 shown and described with respect to figures 1-10 is configured for use within an interior compartment 330.

Fig. 12B illustrates a top view of an interior cabin 380 of an aircraft in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. The inner compartment 380 is an example of the inner compartment 330 shown in fig. 11. The interior compartment 380 may be within the fuselage 381 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define an interior compartment 380. The interior cabin 380 includes a plurality of sections including a main cabin 382 having passenger seats 383 and a rear section 385 located rearward of the main cabin 382. It should be understood that the interior compartment 380 may include more or fewer sections than shown.

The interior cabin 380 may include a single aisle 384 leading to an aft section 385. The single aisle 384 may extend through the center of the interior cabin 380 leading to the aft section 385. For example, the single aisle 384 may be coaxially aligned with a central longitudinal plane of the inner cabin 380.

The aisle 384 extends to an exit path or door channel 390. An outlet door 392 is located at the end of the outlet path 390. The exit path 390 may be perpendicular to the aisle 384. The inner chamber 380 may include more exit paths than shown. The ventilation system 100 shown and described with respect to figures 1-10 is configured for use within an interior compartment 380.

Fig. 13 illustrates a perspective interior view of an interior compartment 400 of an aircraft in accordance with an embodiment of the subject disclosure. The interior compartment 400 includes an exterior sidewall 402 that is connected to a ceiling 404. A window 406 may be formed in outer sidewall 402. The floor 408 supports rows of seats 410. As shown in fig. 13, a row 412 may include two seats 410 on either side of an aisle 413. However, the row 412 may include more or fewer seats 410 than shown. Additionally, the interior compartment 400 may include more aisles than shown.

PSU414 is positioned between outer sidewall 402 and ceiling 404 on either side of aisle 413. PSU414 extends between the leading and trailing ends of interior compartment 400. For example, PSU414 may be positioned above each seat 410 within row 412. Each PSU414 may include a housing 416 above each seat 410 (or seat group) in row 412, the housing 416 typically containing vents, reading lights, oxygen bag drop panels, attendant request buttons, and other such controls.

Elevated trunk assembly 418 is mounted to ceiling 404 and/or to outer side wall 402 above and inboard of PSU414 on either side of aisle 413. An overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 is positioned above the seat 410. An overhead luggage compartment assembly 418 extends between the forward and aft ends of the interior compartment 400. Each trunk assembly 418 may include a pivot bin or bucket 420 pivotally mounted to a power back panel (hidden in the view of fig. 13). An overhead trunk assembly 418 may be positioned above and inboard of the lower surface of PSU 414. The elevated luggage compartment assembly 418 is configured to pivot open to receive, for example, passenger carry-on luggage and personal items.

As used herein, the term "outboard" refers to a location that is farther from the central longitudinal plane 422 of the interior compartment 400 than another component. The term "inboard" refers to a location closer to the central longitudinal plane 422 of the inner compartment 400 than another component. For example, the lower surface of PSU414 may be outboard relative to the trunk assembly 418.

The ventilation system 100 shown and described with respect to figures 1-10 is configured for use within an interior compartment 400.

Fig. 14 illustrates a flow chart of a method for ventilation of an interior space, such as an interior compartment of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosure. The method includes associating one or more distribution nozzles with a seat within the interior space at 500; associating a return air grille with the seat at 502; and directing the airflow from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille at 504.

In at least one example, the associating one or more distribution nozzles includes positioning one or more distribution nozzles above the seat. Further, in at least one example, the associating return air grille includes disposing the return air grille beneath at least a portion of the seat.

In at least one example, the method further includes providing clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles through the air distribution subsystem.

In at least one example, the method further includes fluidly coupling one or more outflow valves to the return air grille.

In at least one example, the method further includes fluidly coupling the air filtration subsystem to a return air grille.

In at least one example, the method further comprises: disposing a side return air grille to one or both of a side wall or a floor of the interior space; and fluidly coupling the return air grille to the side return air grille.

As a further example, the method includes positioning a return air grille to the floor of the interior space. In some examples, the method includes positioning a return air grille to a portion of the seat.

In at least one embodiment, the method further comprises providing one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

In at least one embodiment, the method further includes mounting a plenum having a filter and a fan to a floor of the interior space.

As described herein, embodiments of the subject disclosure provide systems and methods for preventing, minimizing, or otherwise reducing the spread of pathogens between passengers on a vehicle during travel, such as between passengers in the interior cabin of an aircraft during flight, without risking injury to the passengers.

Further, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

clause 1. a system, comprising:

one or more distribution nozzles associated with the seats within the interior space; and

a return air grille associated with the seat or seats,

wherein the airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

Clause 2. the system of clause 1, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles are above the seat, and wherein the return air grill is below at least a portion of the seat.

Clause 3. the system of clause 2, wherein at least a portion of the seat comprises a cushion upon which the passenger sits.

Clause 4. the system of any one of clauses 1-3, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles comprise at least five distribution nozzles.

Clause 5. the system of any of clauses 1-4, further comprising an air distribution subsystem that provides clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles.

Clause 6. the system of any of clauses 1-5, further comprising one or more outflow valves fluidly coupled to the return air grille.

Clause 7. the system of any of clauses 1-6, further comprising an air filtration subsystem fluidly coupled to the return air grill.

Clause 8. the system of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles are part of a passenger service unit within an interior compartment of a vehicle.

Clause 9. the system of any of clauses 1-8, further comprising a side return air grill disposed to one or both of a side wall or a floor of the interior space, wherein the return air grill is fluidly coupled to the side return air grill.

Clause 10. the system of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the return air grill is mounted to the floor of the interior space.

Clause 11. the system of any of clauses 1-10, wherein the return air grill is mounted to a portion of the seat.

Clause 12. the system of any of clauses 1-11, further comprising one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

Clause 13. the system of any of clauses 1-12, further comprising a plenum mounted to a floor of the interior space, wherein the plenum includes a filter and a fan.

Clause 14. a method, comprising:

associating one or more distribution nozzles with a seat within the interior space;

associating a return air grille with the seat; and

the airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

Clause 15. the method of clause 14, wherein the associating one or more distribution nozzles comprises disposing the one or more distribution nozzles above the seat, and wherein the associating a return air grill comprises disposing the return air grill below at least a portion of the seat.

Clause 16. the method of clause 15, wherein the at least a portion of the seat includes a cushion upon which a passenger sits.

Clause 17. the method of any one of clauses 14-16, further comprising providing clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles through the air distribution subsystem.

Clause 18. the method of any of clauses 14-17, further comprising fluidly coupling one or more outflow valves to a return air grill.

Clause 19. the method of any of clauses 14-18, further comprising fluidly coupling an air filtration subsystem to a return air grill.

Clause 20. the method of any one of clauses 14-19, further comprising:

disposing a side return air grille to one or both of a side wall or a floor of the interior space; and

the return air grille is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille.

Clause 21. the method of any of clauses 14-20, further comprising disposing a return air grill to the floor of the interior space.

Clause 22. the method of any one of clauses 14-21, further comprising disposing a return air grill to a portion of the seat.

Clause 23. the method of any one of clauses 14-22, further comprising providing one or more additional distribution nozzles within the interior space.

Clause 24. the method of any of clauses 14-23, further comprising mounting a plenum having a filter and a fan to a floor of the interior space.

Clause 25, a vehicle, comprising:

an interior compartment;

a plurality of seats within the interior compartment; and

a ventilation system comprising one or more distribution nozzles and a return air grille associated with each of the plurality of seats, wherein the airflow is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles toward and into the return air grille.

Although various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, medial, lateral, horizontal, vertical, forward and the like, may be used to describe embodiments of the subject disclosure, it is to be understood that such terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the drawings. These orientations may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed such that the upper portion is the lower portion and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

As used herein, a structure, limitation, or component that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is specifically formed, constructed, or adapted structurally in a manner that corresponds to the task or operation. For the purposes of clarity and avoidance of doubt, an object that can only be modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform the task or operation as used herein.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the disclosure, the embodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the above description. The scope of various embodiments of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the claims and detailed description appended hereto, the terms "comprising" and "comprise" are used as shorthand equivalents of the term "comprising" and the term "wherein" is used as shorthand equivalent of the term "in … …. Moreover, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

This written description uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of various embodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A system (100), comprising:

one or more distribution nozzles (106) associated with a seat (108) within the interior space; and

a return air grille (110) associated with the seat (108),

wherein an airflow (112) is directed from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) toward the return air grille (110) and into the return air grille (110).

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles (106) are above the seat (108), and wherein the return air grille (110) is below at least a portion of the seat (108).

3. The system (100) of claim 2, wherein the at least a portion of the seat (108) includes a cushion upon which an occupant sits.

4. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles (106) include at least five distribution nozzles (106).

5. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising an air distribution subsystem (116), the air distribution subsystem (116) providing clean air to the one or more distribution nozzles (106).

6. The system (100) of any of claims 1-3, further comprising one or more outflow valves (120) fluidly coupled to the return air grille (110).

7. The system (100) of any of claims 1-3, further comprising an air filtration subsystem (122) fluidly coupled to the return air grille (110).

8. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more distribution nozzles (106) are part of a passenger service unit within an interior cabin (104) of a vehicle (104).

9. The system (100) of any of claims 1-3, further comprising a side return air grille (110) disposed to one or both of a sidewall (206) or a floor (210) of the interior space, wherein the return air grille (110) is fluidly coupled to the side return air grille (110).

10. A method, comprising:

associating one or more distribution nozzles (106) with a seat (108) within the interior space;

associating a return air grille (110) with the seat (108); and

directing an airflow (112) from the one or more distribution nozzles (106) toward the return air grill (110) and into the return air grill (110).