EP3625127A1

EP3625127A1 - Aircraft cabin comprising a cargo area intended to accommodate passengers

Info

Publication number: EP3625127A1
Application number: EP18726132.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Sébastien SIVIGNON; Etienne MARECAL; Claude Martin; Ramon BLAUWHOFF
Original assignee: Safran SA
Current assignee: Safran SA
Priority date: 2017-05-19
Filing date: 2018-05-18
Publication date: 2020-03-25
Also published as: FR3066474B1; US20200062400A1; CN110678392A; CN110662699A; JP2020520840A; EP3625126A1; US20200079508A1; US11591089B2; FR3066475A1; WO2018211077A1; WO2018211076A1; JP2020520841A; JP7162619B2; FR3066474A1

Abstract

The invention concerns an aircraft cabin comprising: - an upper deck (70), - a cargo area (2) configured to accommodate at least one passenger and situated at a different level to the upper deck (70), and - at least one access means (16) for bringing the upper deck (70) into communication with the cargo area (2), wherein the upper deck (70) has, at least locally, a raised floor (73) in the vicinity of the access means (16), so as to give at least one part (74) of the cargo area (2) a ceiling height higher than a ceiling height of the rest of the area cargo (2).

Description

Airplane cabin with a cargo area designed to accommodate

passengers

The present invention relates to an aircraft cabin comprising a cargo area intended to accommodate passengers.

In aircraft, particularly long-haul aircraft with two traffic lanes, a lower deck includes a cargo area that is often underutilized and / or little occupied. It has already been envisaged to convert the cargo area into a cabin space, that is to say a space intended to accommodate passengers, especially in seats during the flight. Such an arrangement may be definitive or temporary and / or irreversibly or reversibly made. Provisional and / or reversible means a layout that can be quickly installed and uninstalled, as required, to use the cargo area, either conventionally for the carriage of goods or, as indicated above and in accordance with invention, to accommodate passengers.

The lower deck is made accessible from an upper deck usually accommodating passengers and a cabin crew responsible for their reception, comfort and safety, to allow a passage between the lower deck and the upper deck. By "cabin crew" is meant here as in the rest of the description, all personnel (hostesses, stewards, ...) involved and having an operational function in the aircraft during the various phases of a flight , except for the one used for flying the aircraft. Similarly, it is also understood that the term "cabin crew" excludes passengers.

In the present description, the term "upper deck" refers to the traditional spaces where passengers sit on an airplane. Thus, in the context of aircraft type Boeing 747 or Airbus A380, the term "upper deck" encompasses the two superimposed spaces in which passengers sit and sit. Thus, according to the invention, the term "upper deck" is to oppose the term "lower deck" in that the upper point is intended for the reception of passengers while the "lower deck" is, in the context of the present invention, intended at the reception of passengers and / or at the reception of charges and / or goods stored in the cargo area of the aircraft.

According to the directives and regulations currently in force at the time of the invention, the presence of passengers at the lower deck is permitted only during periods of flights outside the taxiing, take-off and landing phases. During these phases, all passengers must be installed at the upper deck. The difficulties encountered in the development of a cargo area for the reception of passengers are multiple. It is first desired that the configuration of the development of the cargo area in the passenger reception area is flexible, that is to say that can be arranged in various configurations, and can be adapted to different types aircraft to be equipped as well as the demand in terms of passengers and / or goods to be transported. In addition, it is also desired that the costs generated by the development of the cargo area for the reception of passengers be as low as possible in order to ensure an economic profitability of such a solution. At the same time, the irreversible modifications of the aircraft, such as the creation of an access opening between a floor of the upper deck and the cargo area, or the creation of an interface enabling the reception area to be passengers in the cargo area in different fluids, especially energy and air conditioning, must be minimized. Finally, the cargo area must be able to return to its original destination, that is to say dedicated to the transport of goods, in a minimum time and without the arrangements made to accommodate passengers limit its capacity.

However, the low ceiling of the cargo area is a problem. Passengers and / or cabin crew in the cargo area can not stand. Such a situation goes against the comfort of passengers and / or cabin crew.

Currently, the proposed developments do not respond appropriately to these objectives. The present invention proposes to improve the situation. For this purpose, it relates to a modular arrangement, intended to accommodate at least one passenger of an aircraft. Said arrangement comprises at least one module, in particular a structural element, configured to be removably disposed in a cargo area of the aircraft.

The module comprises an access means from an upper deck of the aircraft, the access means being in particular housed in the structural element, the module being configured to put in communication the upper deck and at least one outer space to the module and located in the cargo area, so as to form a module, called "access module". Alternatively, the module may comprise a comfort device to improve passenger comfort, in particular housed in the structural element. In addition, the module can be configured to be in communication with at least one space, outside the module and located in the cargo area so as to form a module, called "comfort module".

As a variant, the module can form a functional module, that is to say a module configured to be in communication with at least one space outside the module, located in the cargo area, so as to feed the cargo area, in particular to supply other modules located in the cargo area with energy, especially electrical energy, data, especially digitized data, and / or fluid. The functional module is advantageously configured to be connected with one or more flight systems of the aircraft.

In another variant, the module may form a sanitary module, that is to say a module configured to be in communication with at least one space outside the module, including one or more modules located in the cargo area, the sanitary module including toilets for passengers and / or crew members. Thanks to the module according to the invention, it is possible to equip the cargo area flexibly. In addition, according to the present invention, the cargo area is configurable according to various modular arrangements that meet the needs and / or wishes of, for example, an airline. Such flexibility and / or modularity is obtained in particular from a limited number of elements from a catalog of standard modules, the different combinations of which will make it possible to adapt the layout of the cargo area according to the needs, in taking into account the particularities of the aircraft. In addition, the present invention allows, in particular, different orientations of the access means to ensure optimal configuration, and optimization of the space occupancy of the cargo area and / or the upper deck. The modules also allow a quick release of the cargo area to ensure the recovery of a full capacity of the latter. In the case of access modules, the module is preferably intended to be associated with one or more comfort modules. It can also be used to equip a cargo area having an area intended to accommodate passengers but which is not carried out using comfort modules. In the case of comfort modules, the module is preferably intended to be associated with one or more other comfort modules and / or at least one access module. It can also be used to equip a cargo area having an area intended to accommodate passengers but which is not entirely carried out using comfort modules and / or whose access from the upper deck is not done at the same time. help of an access module.

In particular in the case of an access module, the module may comprise a lower part and an upper part, forming a ceiling for the lower part. The ceiling is advantageously independent of and fixed on the lower part. The ceiling comprises a housing allowing access to the interior of the module, such housing being intended to come opposite an access hatch made in a floor of the upper deck of the aircraft. Said housing has, for example, substantially the same shape as the access door. Alternatively, the housing is bigger than the access hatch. In another variant, the module is fully open at the top.

The invention also provides an aircraft cabin comprising a cargo area, an upper deck, located at a different level of the cargo area, and at least one access means for communicating the upper deck and the cargo area. The cargo area is configured to accommodate at least one passenger. The access means comprises an access means, such as a staircase, and the upper deck has at least locally a raised floor, particularly in the vicinity of the access means, so as to offer at least a portion of the cargo area a ceiling height above a ceiling height of the rest of the cargo area.

The invention is based in particular on the finding made by the applicant that the exploitation of the volumes at the right of the zones surrounding the means of access at the level of the upper point can be done with a reduced ceiling height. It is thus possible to raise the floor of the upper deck locally, without damaging the operating conditions of the volumes in question. This localized elevation of the upper deck floor in turn allows for a higher ceiling height for at least a portion of the cargo area. Passengers or cabin crew present in this part of the cargo area will be able, at least locally, to stand up.

According to complementary or alternative features of the invention, which may be considered individually or in combination between one or more of them:

the module is configured to communicate with a neighboring module,

the module is configured to be placed side by side with a neighboring or adjacent module or contiguous, in particular along a longitudinal axis of the aircraft, also corresponding advantageously to a longitudinal direction of the module,

the module is configured to extend over all or part of a width of the cargo area, in particular over an entire width of the cargo area, the module is configured to be loaded into the cargo area from a sidewall of the aircraft,

the module is configured to be moved in the longitudinal direction of the module when it is put in place,

the module comprises a first passage and / or a second passage configured to communicate with a first module and / or a second adjacent or adjacent module or contiguous module, in particular at their corresponding respective passages,

the first passage and the second passage are situated at opposite faces of the module in a direction extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the module,

the module comprises a circulation aisle between the first passage and the second passage,

the first passage and the second passage are located in the extension of one another in the longitudinal direction of the module,

- the circulation aisle is straight,

alternatively, the circulation aisle forms an "S",

said module, in particular said structural element, comprises a box configured to be loaded into the airplane removably,

the caisson comprises lateral faces, configured to cooperate with guides of the cargo area for a placement of the module in the cargo area,

the lateral faces comprise a cutaway, configured to cooperate with the guides of the cargo area for the placement of the module in the cargo area,

the box comprises extremal faces, configured to be arranged opposite the corresponding faces of neighboring modules, so that two neighboring modules thus formed have a double thickness of partition between them,

alternatively, the box comprises an end face and has an open extremal side vis-à-vis so that two neighboring modules thus formed have a single wall thickness between them by contacting the open side of the one with the extremal face of the other, alternatively, the box comprises two open end sides so that two neighboring modules thus formed do not have any partition thickness between them, the module comprises internal partitions, for example intended to be oriented along the longitudinal axis of the aircraft and / or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft, the internal partitions compartmentalizing the module so as to form independent spaces, including meeting rooms,

the caisson comprises means of attachment to the cargo area,

the module comprises at least one internal network, for the transmission of energy, in particular of electrical energy, for the transmission of data and / or for the distribution of fluid, and at least one link interface of the circulation network with the outside the module,

the link interface of the module is configured to cooperate with at least one link interface of a neighboring module,

the link interface of the module is configured to cooperate with the cargo area,

the comfort device comprises one or more sleeping units,

the module comprises one or more storage compartments, in particular for valuables such as handbags, laptops or others,

- the storage compartments are integrated at the level of the sleeping units and / or located near the sleeping units,

a first sleeping unit is arranged parallel to the circulation aisle,

a second sleeping unit is arranged orthogonally to the circulation aisle,

the casing has a dimension in the longitudinal direction of the module of between 150 and 240 cm,

- the means of access includes a staircase, or a ladder,

the means of access opens onto a landing of the cargo area, in particular serving the traffic lane,

- the staircase is straight, quarter turn or half turn,

the structural element, in particular the box, is configured to allow the staircase to be fixed according to different predetermined configurations, the box comprises means for anchoring the staircase distributed regularly at a base and / or a floor of the box,

the module comprises toilets and / or a service area, in particular intended for cabin crew,

the toilets and / or service areas are located on either side of the stairway in the longitudinal direction of the module, and / or

- The upper face of the module comprises a recess in the right of the landing of the cargo area. The invention also relates to an aircraft cabin comprising one or more modules as described above, arranged in particular at the cargo area of the aircraft.

According to different additional or alternative features of the invention, which may be considered individually or in combination between one or more of them:

one of the modules is an access module and at least one of the other modules is a comfort module,

the modules are positioned one after the other along a longitudinal axis of the aircraft,

- The modules are in communication with each other, so that the passenger can move from one module to another,

the comfort modules are identical,

as a variant, the comfort modules are of different types, chosen from a limited number of standard modules,

the cargo area has a lowered floor, at least at the level of the module or modules,

the module or modules have a floor matching the shape of the floor of the cargo area,

- the upper deck locally has a raised floor, so as to offer a portion of the cargo area a ceiling height greater than a ceiling height of the rest of the cargo area,

- The upper deck comprises an inclined partition forming, at least partially, a ceiling to maintain a height below relatively constant ceiling at the right of each or several steps of the stairs,

- the raised floor is located on the right of the landing,

the upper deck comprises a wash-hand basin, a toilet and / or a service area facing the inclined partition,

- the raised floor forms a floor of the upper deck in front of the washbasin, toilet and / or service area of the upper deck, and / or

- the raised floor is located at the right of an area of the cargo area located near the last steps of the stairs, cargo area side.

According to another aspect of the invention, the cargo area is arranged in the form of modules.

Of course the various features, variants and / or embodiments of the present invention may be associated with each other in various combinations to the extent that they are not incompatible or exclusive to each other.

The invention will be better understood and other features and advantages will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description comprising embodiments given by way of illustration with reference to the appended figures, presented by way of non-limiting examples, which may be used to complete the understanding of the invention and the statement of its realization and, where appropriate, to contribute to its definition, among which:

FIGS. 1a to 1c show, schematically in perspective, respectively,

a first series of modules according to the invention, corresponding to a first arrangement of the cargo area,

a second series of modules according to the invention, corresponding to a second arrangement of the cargo area, and a third series of modules according to the invention, corresponding to a third arrangement of the cargo area, FIG. 2 schematically illustrates in perspective another series of modules according to the invention, having modules of configurations different from those of FIGS. 1a to 1c,

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates in perspective another series of modules according to the invention, having a combination of modules as described in FIGS. 1a to 1c and 2;

FIGS. 4a to 4c show, schematically in perspective, variant configurations of a module according to the invention,

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view in plan view of another series of modules according to the invention, in order to represent a first mode of interfacing the modules with the cargo area;

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic plan view of another series of modules according to the invention, in order to represent a second mode of interfacing the modules with the cargo area;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates in a view from above, another series of modules according to the invention, in order to represent a particularity of the access module of the access module,

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates, in perspective, a first variant of the access module of FIG. 6, in the assembly phase,

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates in perspective a second variant of the access module of FIG. 6, in the assembly phase,

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates in perspective a configuration of an access module according to the invention,

- Figure 1 1 schematically illustrates in perspective the configuration of a staircase of a cabin according to the invention according to a first variant,

FIG. 12 takes again FIG. 11 according to another angle of view and by completing it,

FIG. 13 shows part of FIG. 12 to highlight the advantage provided by the variant of the invention in question, and

- Figure 14 schematically illustrates in perspective the configuration of a staircase of a cabin according to the invention according to a second variant. As illustrated in particular in Figures 1 to 1 c, 2 and 3, the invention relates to a modular arrangement for accommodating at least one passenger of an aircraft. In the present description, reference is generally made to a passenger. However, it is understood that the invention is also applicable in the case of several passengers.

The modular arrangement according to the invention is advantageously intended to equip an aircraft comprising a lower deck 1 and an upper deck, defining a main cabin, not visible in FIGS. 1a to 1c, 2 and 3. The lower deck 1 comprises at least one cargo area 2. According to the present invention, the cargo area 2 is converted, in particular temporarily or permanently and / or reversibly or irreversibly, into cabin space. Thus, according to the embodiments according to the present invention, the cargo area 2 is arranged in various modular configurations meeting the needs and / or wishes of, in particular, an airline, in a flexible and modular arrangement.

According to the directives and regulations currently in force at the time of the invention, the cargo area is free of passengers during the taxiing, take-off and landing phases. It can only be occupied outside these specific phases. In other words, according to one possible use of the invention, the passengers are all installed at an affected position at the level of the upper deck (s) 1, during the taxiing, take-off and landing phases, and are authorized to reach the cargo area 2, as converted, outside these phases. Access to the cargo area 2, as converted, is preferably carried out according to specific access conditions, for example defined during the ticket purchase and / or during flight.

The upper deck comprises, in one particular example, two aisles and three rows of seats, especially for the purpose of equipping aircraft for long-haul flights. Of course, such an arrangement is only indicative and many other alternative arrangements are possible and are within the scope of the invention, including aircraft whose upper deck itself includes several bridges, such as Boeing 747 aircraft. or Airbus A380. According to a particular embodiment, the cargo area 2 has a configuration of limited height, for example a height less than 2 m. In certain circumstances, the height of the cargo area may have a height configuration of less than 1.8 m or even 1.6 m. The height of the cargo area is considered in particular in a central part, knowing that the height of the cargo area in the lateral parts thereof, that is to say generally disposed close to and along lateral flanks 8 of the plane, may have still lower heights.

In the illustrated examples, the cargo area 2 is preferably delimited by lateral walls 4 joining end walls 6 closing the cargo area 2. More specifically, the side walls 4 are generally of extension parallel to an axis. longitudinal XX 'of the aircraft and the end walls 6 are generally of orthogonal extension to the longitudinal axis XX' of the aircraft. Preferably, the side walls 4 extend parallel to a plane XZ of an orthonormal reference XYZ comprising the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft as X axis and the end walls 6 extend parallel to a plane YZ of the orthonormal landmark XYZ.

The cargo area 2 is between the side flanks 8 of the aircraft. Due to a geometry having a curvature of the lateral flanks 8 of the aircraft, a residual space is present between the side walls 4 of the cargo area 2 and the side flanks 8 of the aircraft. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the present invention comprises side walls 4 of the cargo area 2 tending to minimize the residual space present between the side walls 4 of the cargo area 2 and the side flanks 8 of the aircraft . For this purpose, the side walls 4 may have suitable profiles having a plurality of vertical sections interconnected by connecting sections, for example oblique.

In order to allow loading of the loads and / or goods intended to be stored in the cargo area 2 of the aircraft, an access opening 10 to the cargo area 2 is arranged on at least one of the side walls 4 of the cargo area 2. The access opening 10 is preferably located at one of the side walls 4 of the cargo area 2 vis-à-vis an access door 12, called "cargo door 12", arranged on one of the side flanks 8 of the aircraft. While remaining in accordance with the invention, the equipped aircraft may comprise several cargo areas, possibly separated by compartments such as that illustrated in FIGS. 1a to 1c, 2 and 3.

The modular arrangement according to the invention may further comprise at least first modular element 18, called "access module 18", and / or at least one second modular element 22, called "comfort module 22". Preferably, the first modular element 18, respectively the second modular element 22, may comprise a structural element 14, in particular a reinforcement 14, helping to define a structural envelope of the first modular element 18, respectively of the second modular element 22. More particularly, the structural element 14 is configured to be mounted or arranged or arranged, preferably removably and reversibly, in the cargo area 2 of the aircraft.

More particularly, the first modular element 18 or access module 18, advantageously comprises at least one access means 16 from the upper deck of the aircraft allowing a transition from the upper deck of the aircraft to the access module 18. Furthermore, the second modular element 22 or comfort module 22 advantageously comprises at least one comfort device 20 for improving the comfort of the passenger present in the comfort module 22. In particular, it is meant by a comfort device means for the passenger to rest in a partially or fully seated position and / or in a partially or fully recumbent position.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the access module 18 does not comprise a comfort device 20 and / or the comfort module 22 does not comprise access means 1 6. According to other embodiments Specifically, the access module 18 may also advantageously comprise at least one comfort device 20. The access means 166 is arranged in or on the structural element 14, in particular the armature 14. In addition, the access module 18 is configured to also put in communication the upper bridge and at least one outer space with the access module 18 and located in the cargo area 2, for example a comfort module 22. According to a particular embodiment, the access module 18 is, moreover, located opposite one end walls 6 of the cargo area 2, advantageously disposed adjacent to one of the end walls 6 of the cargo area 2.

The modules 18, 22, in particular the access module 18, may comprise a lower part and an upper part, forming a ceiling for the lower part. The ceiling is advantageously independent of and fixed on the lower part. Different ceilings can thus be adapted to the same lower part, in particular to ensure proper positioning of the access module with respect to an access door located in the upper deck to access the modules 18, 22. Indeed, the relative positioning of the access hatch and the access module 18 may change from one plane to another. In this way, it will be possible to place the access module at the desired location under the access hatch while optimizing the occupancy of the cargo area, for example by positioning the access module against a zone end partition. cargo, rather than losing the cargo area.

The ceiling comprises a housing allowing access to the interior of the module, such a housing being intended to come opposite the access door formed in a floor of the upper deck of the aircraft. Said housing has, for example, substantially the same shape as the access door. Alternatively, the housing is larger than the access door. In another variant, the module is fully open at the top. Preferably, said access module comprises a lining for concealing or even sealing an interface zone between the ceiling of the module and the floor of the upper deck, at an outline of the housing and / or the trap door. 'access. The comfort device 20 is arranged in the structural element 14, in particular the armature 14. In addition, the comfort module 22 is configured to be in communication with at least one space outside the comfort module 22 and located in the zone cargo 2, for example another comfort module 22 and / or an access module 18. According to an exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the comfort module 22 is arranged:

between an access module 18 and another comfort module 22, or

between two other comfort modules 22, or

between another comfort module 22 and the rest of the cargo area 2.

According to another exemplary embodiment, the comfort module 22 can be arranged:

between an access module 18 and one of the end walls 6 of the cargo area 2, or

between another comfort module 22 and one of the end walls 6 of the cargo area 2.

In the particular configuration in which the comfort module 22 opens onto the rest of the cargo area 2, access to this rest of the cargo area is preferably closed.

The comfort module 22 is therefore preferably configured to put two external spaces in communication with this comfort module 22, even if each of the connections is not necessarily used. Thanks to such a configuration in modular elements or modules, in particular in modules with specific function, namely in particular the access module 18 and the other comfort module 22, it is possible to equip the cargo area 2 in a manner adapted to needs, according to a modular arrangement and able to be arranged in multiple configurations. Moreover, the equipment of the cargo area 2 according to the present invention is possible quickly and reversibly.

In particular, each module, respectively the first modular element 18 or access module 18 and / or the second modular element 22 or comfort module 22, is configured to be in communication with a module arranged contiguously in the cargo area 2 of the aircraft, also called neighboring module.

As shown, in Figure 1a, the cargo area 2 accommodates a succession and / or stack of modules formed of an access module 18 and two comfort modules 22. The embodiment shown in Figure 1b the filling of the cargo area 2 is completed with the aid of an additional comfort module 22. Finally, the embodiment of FIG. 1 c is such that two other additional comfort modules 22 are arranged in the cargo area 2 so that almost all of the cargo area 2 is filled. The comfort modules illustrated in these figures define resting places and the comfort devices they comprise are configured for this purpose.

In a non-illustrated variant, the one or more of the modules, in particular the or one or more of the comfort modules 22, may be configured for different uses of a use as a resting place, in particular to define meeting rooms, reception areas, sales areas, such as a shop, and / or entertainment areas, such as a bar or casino. In particular, at least one of the modules may include one or more meeting rooms. This or these meeting rooms are preferentially closed. They can also serve as privacy areas for people wanting to isolate themselves from the rest of the space defined by the modules fitted to the cargo area 2. They are configured, for example, to accommodate two to three people. They advantageously include a telephony system and / or video conference.

Such a module may include internal partitions, for example oriented along the longitudinal axis of the aircraft and / or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft, the internal partitions compartmentalizing the module so as to form independent spaces, delimiting at least partly the said meeting rooms. These internal partitions may be removable and / or retractable. They can be used to compartmentalize the module for uses other than meeting rooms. Alternatively, one or more of the modules, then positioned in continuity with each other, define a said reception area, a said sales area and / or a said entertainment area. An example of succession / stack of modules not shown is formed of an access module, a comfort module for the reception of passengers and one or more comfort modules configured as a resting place.

In another variant, one of the comfort modules may define a sanitary module, that is to say a module comprising one or toilets. In other words, the module includes only toilets or service areas, without comfort device 20 or access means 1 6.

Advantageously, each module according to the invention, namely the access module 18 and / or the comfort module 22, is configured to be disposed side by side with a neighboring module along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft . As a result, the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft defines a "longitudinal direction of the module". In other words, each module is configured to be contiguous to another module, or even be sandwiched between two other modules, this according to their longitudinal direction of the modules. According to such arrangements, series of modules stacked horizontally along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft are arranged in the cargo area 2, to convert it to a cabin space.

According to a particular example of implementation of the present invention, each modular element or module is configured to extend over an entire width of the cargo area 2. In the present context, the width of the cargo area extends according to a Z axis of the orthonormal coordinate system XYZ. Thus, the possible part of the cargo area 2 remaining available for the transport of goods is located in the extension, along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft, of the last module or modules of the series of modules formed in the zone. cargo 2.

Preferably, each module, namely the access module 18 and / or the comfort module 22, is configured to be loaded in the cargo area 2 from one of the lateral flanks 8 of the aircraft, in particular through the door access 12, or door 12, the aircraft and the access opening 10 of the cargo area 2. Each module is also configured to be moved in the longitudinal direction of the module during installation so as to easily constitute the horizontal stack of modules mentioned above. Thus, a first module is loaded through the access door 12 and the access opening 10. As a result, the first of the modules is taken to the desired location in the cargo area 2. It is carried out of the same kind consecutively, module by module, in the desired order of the modules to obtain the desired module configuration to convert the cargo area 2 a specific cabin space.

Each module, namely the access module 18 and / or the comfort module 22, comprises, for example, at least a first passage 24, advantageously at least a second passage 24, configured to communicate with at least one immediately arranged module. before and / or after the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft in the desired module configuration. Advantageously, when the module, namely the access module 18 and / or the comfort module 22, comprises at least a first passage 24 and at least a second passage 24, the first passage 24 and the second passage 24 are arranged so as to allow communication of the module with the module immediately arranged before and the module immediately arranged after the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft in the desired module configuration.

According to the various embodiments presented, each module comprises two passages 24, one of the passages 24 at the end of the series of modules being condemned, closed or intended to be. Preferably, the first passage 24 and the second passage 24 are located at opposite faces of each of the modules in the longitudinal direction of the module.

Advantageously, the module comprises, for example, at least one circulation aisle 26 connecting the first passage 24 and the second passage 24. According to various configurations and arrangements of the first passage 24 and the second passage 24, the circulation aisle 26 can present a rectilinear or curved orientation having at least one inflection. According to a first configuration of the module, corresponding to FIGS. 1a to 1c, the first passage 24 and the second passage 24 are located in the extension of one another in the longitudinal direction of the module and the circulation aisle 26 is right. This is also an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which an access mode 18 is combined with several identical comfort modules 22, namely two comfort modules 22 according to the example of FIG. 1a, three comfort modules 22 according to the example of FIG. 1b and five comfort modules 22 according to the example of FIG. 1c. According to another configuration of the module, in particular valid for the comfort modules 22, corresponding to FIG. 2, the first passage 24 and the second passage 24 are laterally offset along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft and the aisle 1 longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft forms an "S". In the configuration example of the cargo area 2 according to FIG. 2, the comfort modules 22 are different two by two, in the sense that two neighboring comfort modules are not identical. According to a particular variant embodiment, two adjacent comfort modules 22 have symmetrical-mirror arrangements with respect to each other.

In Figure 3, comfort modules 22, according to the previous configurations described in relation to Figures 1a to 1c and 2, are combined and arranged alternately. Figures 2 and 3 also illustrate examples in which the comfort modules 22 are of different types. Ideally, the different versions of the comfort modules 22 are limited, defining standards of comfort modules 22. Thus, the various comfort modules 22 are selected from a limited number of standard comfort modules 22. By "different type" it is understood, in particular, that the number and / or spatial distribution of the comfort devices 20 in the comfort module 22 is different.

From the foregoing, it emerges that, preferably, the various modules, namely a combination of at least one access module 18 and / or at least one module 22, are positioned one after the other along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft. Advantageously one of the modules is an access module 18 and one of the other modules is a comfort module 18. The access module 18 is, according to the alternative embodiments presented, positioned at a longitudinal end along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the series of modules. As a variant, the access module 18 can be located between two comfort modules 22. For the modules located at the end of one series, the first passage 24 and / or the second passage 24 does not open into another module is condemned or closed.

Preferably, the circulation aisles 26 are located in the extension of each other so as to form a continuous circulation aisle along the series of modules. In FIGS. 1a to 1c, the circulation aisle 26 formed by the series of modules is rectilinear along the longitudinal axis XX 'all along the series of modules. In FIG. 2, with the exception of the access module 18, the circulation aisle 26 formed by the series of modules results from the circulation aisle 26 at the "S" of the modules, the "S" aisles mirror inverting along the series of modules. In FIG. 3, the circulation aisle 26 formed by the series of modules combines rectilinear portions and "S" portions, in a mirror. Thus, the modules are in communication with each other so that the passenger can move from one module to another throughout the series of modules.

As can be seen more clearly in FIGS. 4a to 4c, the structural element 14 of the module comprises, for example, a box 27 configured to be removably loaded into the aircraft, comprising lateral faces 28. According to an alternative embodiment, the lateral faces 28 of the box 27 are configured to cooperate with longitudinal guides 30 (visible in Figures 1a and 1b), arranged in the cargo area 2. According to a particular example, the longitudinal guides 30 are located at the base side walls 4 of the cargo area 2. The longitudinal guides 30 allow in particular to ensure the introduction of the module in the cargo area 2. For example, at least one of the side faces 28 of the box 27 may comprise, as shown in Figures 4a to 4c, at least one cutaway 32, in particular oriented at 45 °. In a particular embodiment, the cutaway 32 is intended to slide parallel to and on the longitudinal guides 30 of the cargo area 2. As shown, the box 27 comprises two cut faces 32 disposed on each of the lateral flanks 28 of the box 27 s extending along the longitudinal axis XX 'of the aircraft, preferably parallel to the side walls 4 of the cargo area 2 In addition, the cut pan 32 can reduce the residual space present between the side walls 4 of the cargo area 2 and the side flanks 8 of the aircraft. Such a geometrical configuration allows a maximized volume to be available in the module in order to conform it to the needs of access module 18 and / or comfort module 22.

The box 27 further comprises here end faces 34, also called "stacking faces 34", configured to be disposed vis-à-vis the corresponding end faces 34 of the adjacent module disposed in the final position in the cargo area. The end faces 34 are disposed orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the module. The end faces 34 join the lateral faces 28 of the box 27 in order to define, with the structural element 14, the structural envelope of the module. In other words, in such an embodiment variant, two neighboring modules 18, 22 thus formed have a double thickness of partition between them.

In a variant, the casing 27 comprises an end face 34 and has an open end face facing each other so that two neighboring modules 18, 22 thus formed have a single wall thickness between them by bringing the open side of the chamber into contact with each other. one with the extremal face of the other.

In another variant, the box 27 comprises two open end sides so that two neighboring modules 18, 22 thus formed have no partition thickness between them. That being the case, the modules may include longitudinal members connecting their lateral faces to reinforce their rigidity, the positioning of the longitudinal members being possibly modifiable to prevent them from obstructing the access door in the case of longitudinal members equipping an access module.

In addition, according to an alternative embodiment, the box 27 may further comprise a base 36 and / or an upper face, not shown in Figures 4a to 4c to allow to make the interior of the box 27 visible. The base 36 and / or the upper face extends from lower or upper wafers, the lateral faces 28 and / or the end faces 34 of the box 27. The base 36 of the box 27 is advantageously coated with a floor of the module. The upper face 36, when it exists, forms the ceiling of the module. The first passage 24 and / or the second passage 24 of the module is formed, for example, by openings made at the end faces 34 of the housing 27.

Preferably, the casing 27 comprises fastening means for maintaining in position the box 27 in the cargo area. The fixing means constitute mooring or anchoring points of the box 27 to the side walls 4 and / or the floor of the cargo area 2.

With reference to FIGS. 1a to 1c, 2, 3 and 4a to 4c, it can be seen that the comfort device 20 comprises, for example, at least one sleeping unit 38. In a particular configuration, at least a first unit In addition or alternatively, at least one second sleeping unit 38 is arranged orthogonally parallel to the circulation aisle 26. They are, for example, arranged in parallel with the circulation aisle. , located on both sides of the traffic lane 26.

According to other configurations, the sleeping unit 38 may comprise several berths superimposed one above the other along the Z axis of the orthonormal coordinate system XYZ.

As can be seen in the figures, by way of example, the berths located at the base 36 of the box 27 can be offset from those located above them because of the presence of the cutaway 32, this longitudinally or laterally depending on their orientation.

According to the configurations shown in FIGS. 1a to 1c, the first sleeping unit 38 may comprise at least two superposed berths extending from one end face 34 of the box 27 to the other, between the circulation aisle 26 and one of the lateral faces 28 of the box 27.

In addition, the module further comprises a corridor 40 extending from the circulation aisle 26. According to the example shown, the corridor 40 extends parallel to the end faces 34 of the box 27. In this configuration, the circulation lane 26 and the lane 40 forms a "T".

The second sleeping unit 38 comprises two series of at least two superposed berths extending from the circulation aisle 26 to one of the lateral faces 28 of the box 27 between the passage 40 and each of the end faces 34 of the box 27.

According to the configuration shown in FIG. 2, a first sleeping unit 38, which can comprise at least two superposed berths, extends, along the longitudinal axis of the module, from one of the end faces 34 of the box 27, between the aisle of circulation 26 and one of the side faces 28 of the box 27. A second sleeping unit 38, which may comprise at least two superposed berths, extends orthogonally to the first sleeping unit 38, from the same side face 28 of the box 27 to the circulation aisle 26, along the other end face 34 of the box 27. Thus arranged, the first sleeping unit 38 and the second sleeping unit 38 form an "L", located at a module angle . Another combination of a first sleeping unit 38 and a second "L" shaped sleeping unit 38 is disposed in a central symmetry of the module at another angle of the module. This arrangement thus proposes eight berths arranged on either side of the circulation lane 26. According to the configuration shown in Figure 4a, the module comprises two circulation aisles 26 parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the module. It comprises four passages 24 corresponding to each traffic aisle 26. In such a configuration, four first sleeping units 38, which may comprise at least two superposed berths, extending along the longitudinal axis of the module between the extremal faces 34 of the box 27. First two sleeping units 38 called "central" are arranged between the aisles 26. Two first sleeping units 38 called "lateral", which may include at least two superimposed bunks, may extend parallel to the first so-called "central" sleeping units 38 along the lateral faces 28 of the box 27, in particular above their cutaway 32. The first so-called "lateral" sleeping units 38 are respectively arranged between one of the circulation aisles 26 and the side face 28 of the box 27 near the circulation path 26 considered.

Similarly, according to the configuration shown in FIG. 4b, the module comprises two circulation aisles 26 parallel to one another and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the module. It comprises four passages 24 corresponding to each traffic aisle 26. In such a configuration, four first sleeping units 38, which may comprise at least two superposed berths, extending along the longitudinal axis of the module between the extremal faces 34 of the box 27. Two first sleeping units 38 called "central", which may comprise at least two superimposed berths, are arranged between the aisles 26. Two first sleeping units 38 called "lateral", which may comprise at least two berths superposed, may extend parallel to the first sleeping units 38 said "central" along the side faces 28 of the box 27. The first sleeping units 38 called "side" are respectively disposed between one of the circulation aisles 26 and the face lateral 28 of the box 27 near the circulation lane 26 considered. In this particular configuration, the berths located at the base 36 of the box 27 may be offset laterally, in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the module, with respect to those lying above them because of the presence of cutaway 32. According to the configuration shown in FIG. 4c, the module comprises a circulation aisle 26 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the module and a corridor 40 extending from the circulation aisle 26 in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the module. The circulation aisle 26 and the corridor 40 are in "T" arrangements as in the configuration of the modules of FIGS. 1a to 1c. Two first sleeping units 38 called "lateral", which may comprise at least two superimposed beds, may extend along the side faces 28 of the box 27, similar to the configuration of the module of Figure 4a. According to the embodiment of FIG. 4c, the module also comprises at least one additional unit 42 situated between the corridor 40 and at least one of the end faces 34 of the box 27. For example, the annex unit 42 may being a second sleeping unit 38, which may comprise at least two superimposed beds, extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the module from the first sleeping unit 38. Alternatively, the additional unit 42 may be used for various other functions, such as storage spaces, workspaces, entertainment areas.

As a variant of each of the preceding configurations, instead of sleeping units comprising superposed bunks, it is possible to have sleeping units comprising a single berth.

Although not shown, at least one of the end faces 34 may include a retractable portion to form sleeping units 38 with superposed double berths from a sleeping unit 38 extending along extremal faces 34 opposite two adjacent comfort modules 22.

The box 27 has, for example, a dimension in the longitudinal direction of the module between 150 and 240 cm. More specifically, the dimension in the longitudinal direction of the module may be equal to 153 cm or 220 cm or 240 cm. The passages 24 of the modules are defined, for example, by partitions of the box 27 and / or the ends of the coating units 38, located near the end faces 34 of the box 27. Advantageously, although this is not illustrated, the module includes one or more storage compartments, especially for valuables such as jackets, purses, laptops or others. Indeed, passengers may wish to keep with them such objects rather than leaving them in storage spaces associated with the place assigned to them at the level or the upper decks. Larger items, such as a bag or cabin bag, may remain in the storage spaces of the upper deck (s).

The storage compartments are integrated, for example, at the level of the sleeping units and / or located near the sleeping units. It may be in particular chests. They are located, especially at the head and / or at the foot of the berth. They may also, in a complementary or alternative way, be located along and / or under the berth. They may in particular be provided under the berth in case of module having a lowered floor (see below).

According to a particular aspect, they are configured to accommodate a jacket and / or coat supported by a hook included in the storage compartments. The modules may also include shelves, especially at the head and / or at the foot of the berth, or tables, especially located in the meeting room or rooms.

The different elements equipping the modules, including bunks, storage compartment, shelves and / or tables, may be removable. The modules then advantageously comprise for this purpose fixing points of these devices. These different elements equipping the modules can also, alternatively or cumulatively, be of adjustable height As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, each module, namely the access module 18 and / or the comfort module 22, comprises at least one internal network 50 of the module for the transmission of energy, in particular electrical power, for transmission. data and / or for the distribution of fluid, especially conditioned air and / or water. Each module further comprises at least one link interface 52 for a connection of the internal network 50 of the module with at least one network external to the module, in particular a specific network of the aircraft dedicated to the transmission of energy, especially electrical, to the data transmission and / or distribution of fluid, especially conditioned air and / or water.

According to the embodiment of FIG. 5, the link interface 52 of the module is configured to cooperate with at least one link interface 52 of a neighboring module. For this purpose, the link interface 52 of the module is advantageously located, for example, at the extremal faces 34 of the module, so as to be vis-à-vis a neighboring module. The inner network 50 then extends, for example, along one of the side faces 28 of the module. In particular, all or part of the internal network 50 may be arranged at the cutaway 32. However, the inner network 50 may include branches arranged in the module to distribute energy, data and / or fluid to a desired location of the module, for example near the sleeping units 38.

According to an alternative embodiment, the arrangement of modules according to the present invention comprises a centralized connection interface 54. For example, the centralized connection interface 54 can be arranged at the level of the access module 18. The connection interface centralized system 54 makes it possible to define a single point of connection between a network of the arrangement of modules, consisting of the various internetworks 50 interconnected with each other, and specific networks of the aircraft dedicated to the transmission of energy, especially electrical, to the data transmission and / or distribution of fluid, especially conditioned air and / or water. According to the embodiment of FIG. 6, the link interfaces 52 of each of the modules are configured to cooperate unitarily with the cargo area 2. The link interfaces 52 are located, for example, on one of the lateral faces 28 of the box 27. The embodiments of FIGS. 5 and 6 can also be combined.

As a non-illustrated variant, one of the modules, in particular one of the comfort modules, can form a functional module, that is to say a module configured to be in communication with at least one space outside the module, located in the cargo area, so as to feed the cargo area, in particular to supply other modules located in the cargo area, energy, including electrical energy, data, including digitized data, and / or fluid. The functional module is advantageously configured to be connected with one or more flight systems of the aircraft. According to such a variant, the centralized interface 54 is located at the level of the functional module. Such a module is advantageously located at one end of the succession / stack of modules.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 7 to 9 in which the access means 1 6 of the access module 18 comprises, for example, a staircase 60. The staircase 60 opens onto a bearing 62 of the access module 18 serving directly or indirectly the circulation aisle 26 of the module. In the embodiment shown, the staircase 60 is in a half-turn. It serves the circulation aisle 26 via an access corridor connecting the stairs 60 to the circulation aisle 26. According to the embodiment of Figure 6, the access corridor is shaped of "L" comprising a first aisle 61 and a second aisle 63 from step 62 to the circulation aisle 26. In a variant, the staircase 60 may be straight or in quarter turn. Alternatively, the access means 166 may comprise a scale.

Advantageously, the structural element 14, in particular the box 27, are configured to allow fixing of the staircase 60 in different configurations, including different orientations and / or positions, predetermined, as is symbolized by the arrows 65. The module can thus easily be adapted to the positioning in the cargo area 2, converted according to the present invention cabin space, relative to an access opening provided in a floor of the upper deck to communicate with the cargo area 2. Such modularity of guidance and / or positions is required in particular so that the arrangement of modules according to the present invention finds application in all or part of the aircraft and / or is implemented regardless of the configurations of the cargo area 2 in which the module arrangement is arranged.

For this purpose, the caisson 27 comprises means for anchoring the staircase 60. The anchoring means of the staircase 60 are preferably distributed regularly at the level of the base 36 and / or the floor of the caisson 27. In FIG. 8, the anchoring means are in particular attachment points 67 allowing the staircase to be positioned longitudinally and / or transversely. In addition, advantageously, the anchoring means also allow a variable angular orientation.

Alternatively and / or in addition, as shown in Figure 9, the anchoring means are in particular rails 69. In the figure, the rails 69 are arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft. In a non-illustrated variant, they are arranged orthogonally to this axis. The positioning of the staircase 60 relative to the access hatch can then be achieved, along the longitudinal axis of the aircraft, by the positioning of the access module 18 in the cargo area 2 and, orthogonally to said axis, thanks to to the rails 69.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the access module 18 also comprises at least one comfort device 20, for example a toilet 70 and / or a service area 70. For example, the toilet 70 and / or a Service 70 are likely to be for one or more cabin crew members or passengers. For example, the toilet 70 and / or the service area 70 are located on either side of the staircase 60. In particular, the toilets 70 and / or the service area 70 are arranged along the side faces 28 of the box 27 of the module.

The toilets 70, whether they are situated at the level of one or of one of the access modules 18 and / or at the level of one of the comfort modules 22, in particular of the possible sanitary module, are, for example , connected to a storage tank of excrement distinct from a septic tank of the plane. It may be a tank configured for chemical treatment of excrement.

In another variant, the access module 18 does not include toilets, or none of the modules 18, 20 equipping the cargo area 2 includes toilets, the latter being only provided at the level or the upper decks.

Although this is not illustrated, to facilitate standing, the cargo area 2 may have a lowered floor, at least at the module or modules 18, 22 and the module or modules may have a floor matching the shape of the floor of the cargo area. The floor of the module may in particular be movable to marry the floor of the cargo area in the lowered position and to be raised in other positions.

As will be detailed below, in a specific configuration configuration of the cargo area 2, the upper face of the module, when it exists, may comprise a localized recess, in particular to the right of the bearing 62 of the access module.

Complementary embodiments are illustrated in this sense in Figures 1 1 to 14 wherein the upper deck 70 has a floor 72 in which is formed the hatch or access opening 90 to whose right is located the staircase 60.

According to a specific embodiment, the upper deck 70 locally comprises a raised floor 73. Because of such an arrangement, the raised floor 73 makes it possible to offer, at least locally, to the cargo area 2 a ceiling height greater than a ceiling height of the rest of the cargo area 2. An area 74, corresponding to a projection of a contour of the raised floor 73 on the floor of the box 27, defines a space of the box 27 in which the ceiling height at least locally cargo area 2 is greater than the ceiling height of the rest of cargo area 2. Area 74 is, in particular, illustrated in Figure 13, where it is bounded vertically by dashed lines, and in Figure 14, where it is delimited in gray. In zone 74, standing is facilitated, which is particularly advantageous given the low height that the rest of the cargo area 2 is likely to present.

Advantageously, the raised floor 73 is located in the vicinity of the access means 1 6. More specifically, the raised floor 73 is located, in particular, above the access opening 90 formed in the floor 72 of the upper deck. 70 for the passage of the access means 1 6. Alternatively, the raised floor 73 is located, in particular, at the edge of the access opening 90. Such configurations of the raised floor 73 are such that the opening of access 90 is possibly enlarged beyond what is strictly necessary for the passage of the access means 1 6.

In addition, the upper deck 70 may comprise an inclined partition 76 forming, at least partially, a ceiling to maintain a relatively constant ceiling height to the right access means 1 6, including each or more of the steps of the In the variant of FIGS. 1 1 to 13, the raised floor 72 of the upper deck 70 is located at the level of the bearing 62 of the access module 18. As is more particularly visible in FIG. 12, a first portion 78 of the inclined partition 76 is extended horizontally by the raised floor 73.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the upper deck 70 comprises toilets 80 mounted vis-à-vis the first portion 78 of the inclined partition 76. Alternatively, it may be a service area or a hand washing. More specifically, the configuration presented is such that the upper deck 70 comprises a hand washer 82 disposed opposite the first portion 78 of the inclined partition 76 relative to the raised floor 73. Thus, the raised floor 73 forms a part of the floor 72 of the upper deck 70 supporting the toilet 80 and the hand washer 82. Particularly, it should be noted that the embodiment of Figure 12 comprises a staircase 60 in a half-turn.

According to the variant of Figure 14, the raised floor 73 is located in line with a surface of the cargo area 2 located in the vicinity of the last steps of the staircase, cargo area 12, in a lateral extension of the steps. The area 74 allowing the standing of a passenger in the cargo area 2 is no longer at the level of the landing 62 but next to the stairs 60. Such a zone 7 'is all the more favorable as it is in below an area difficult to exploit the upper deck 70. The raised floor 73 is then independent of the inclined partition 76. Particularly, it should be noted that the embodiment of Figure 13 comprises a quarter-turn staircase.

The raised floor 73 is offset above the floor 72 of the upper deck 70 by a height of between 5 cm and 25 cm, especially between 10 cm and 20 cm and more specifically between 10 cm and 1 6 cm. Such dimensions make it possible to offer a significant additional ceiling height to the corresponding portion of the cargo area 2 while forming a step that can be easily crossed by a passenger flowing at the upper deck 70. Preferably, the upper deck comprises partitions surrounding the hatch and / or access opening 90, with the exception of the side through which access to the staircase 60 is made. This makes it possible to secure the movement of passengers and crew members. It may in particular be partitions of a separation space between two zones of the upper deck, including two zones of different classes.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and provided solely by way of example. It encompasses various modifications, alternative forms and other variants that can be envisaged by those skilled in the art in the context of the present invention and in particular any combination of the different modes of operation described above, which can be taken separately or in combination.

Claims

claims

1) Aircraft cabin including

an upper bridge (70),

a cargo area (2) configured to accommodate at least one passenger and located at a different level from the upper deck (70), and

at least one access means (1 6) making it possible to connect the upper deck (70) and the cargo area (2),

characterized in that the upper deck (70) at least locally has a raised floor (73) in the vicinity of the access means (1 6), so as to provide at least a portion (74) of the cargo area (2). ) a ceiling height that is greater than the ceiling height of the rest of the cargo area (2).

2) A cabin according to claim 1, wherein the access means (1 6) opens on a bearing (62) of the cargo area (2).

3) Cabin according to the preceding claim, wherein the raised floor (73) is located at the right of the bearing (62), so offer the bearing (62) a ceiling height greater than a ceiling height of the rest of the cargo area (2).

4) A cabin according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper deck (70) comprises an inclined partition (76) forming at least partially a ceiling to maintain a relatively constant ceiling height to the access means ( 1 6), in particular each or more of the steps of a staircase (60) forming the access means (1 6).

5) Cabin according to the preceding claim, wherein the upper deck (70) comprises a hand wash, toilet (80) and / or a service area vis-à-vis the inclined partition (76).

6) Cabin according to the preceding claim, wherein the raised floor (73) forms a floor of the upper deck (70) in front of the washbasin, toilet (80) and / or the service area of the upper deck. 7) Cabin according to claim 1, wherein the raised floor (73) is located in line with a surface of the cargo area (2) located near the last steps, on the cargo area (2), of a staircase ( 60) forming the access means (1 6).