Abstract: A method for combining log data generated by an appliance associated with an aircraft with flight data is disclosed. The method includes receiving an automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) signal, wherein the ADS-B signal is received by a communication module communicatively coupled to the appliance. The method includes processing the ADS-B signal into a digitized data signal and correlating the digitized data signal with the log data. The method further includes combining the ADS-B data signal into the log data to create a combined data and correlating the combined data with chronological data, wherein the combined data is timestamped based on the chronological data. A system is also disclosed. The system includes an appliance configured for use in an aircraft. The system further includes a communication module communicatively coupled to the appliance configured to receive automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) signals from the aircraft and send ADS-B data to the appliance.

Abstract: A system comprises an overhead bin including a door configured to open and close an opening of the overhead bin for access to and securing of an interior space of the overhead bin. A latch mechanism operatively connects the opening of the overhead bin to the door of the overhead bin to secure the door to the opening in a closed position, and to release the door from the opening for access to the interior space. A touchless input sensor can be operatively connected to the latch mechanism and a controller can be operatively connected to the latch mechanism and the touchless input sensor.

Abstract: A protective hood for air travel including a plurality of deformable partitions coupled to each other defining an inner cavity, wherein in a folded position the inner cavity is collapsed to a negligible size and in an unfolded position the inner cavity is configured to comfortably confine an human head, wherein one of the partitions includes a deformable opening configured to be stretched and fit over a head, and at least one coupling mechanism configured to attach one of the deformable partitions to an aircraft seat.

Abstract: A system for monitoring traffic in aircraft cabins includes conductive wire in isle carpeting and sensors to register pressure via capacitance changes. The system identifies the volume and location of traffic in aircraft isles via registered changes to voltage, current, and/or conductivity of the conductive wire, and sensors embedded in the carpet. Measurements over time establish changes in traffic flow and directionality which may be used to direct crew members in flight. Lighting elements may be incorporated into the carpet to provide signals to passengers and crew via the lighting elements.

Abstract: A system for programming aircraft galley inserts via tags disposed around the galley includes a tag reader. Such tags may include RFID tags, QR codes, etc., or some combination thereof, and the tag reader comprises an optical sensor, near field communication device, or other RFID reader. The system utilizes the tags to identify the insert's location in the galley, available communications infrastructure and other properties of the galley, and other configurable aspects of the galley insert, and sets internal configurations accordingly. The system may be in data communication with an external processor. The system utilizes the tag, and communicates with the processor to determine a system configuration based on the tag.

Abstract: A system for temperature-related warnings for aircraft-compliant appliances is disclosed. In embodiments, the system includes an aircraft-compliant compliance. The aircraft-compliant appliance may include a transitory temperature-related warning formed with a thermochromic substance disposed on a surface of the appliance. In embodiments, the temperature-related warning may be configured to alert a user as to one or more characteristics of the aircraft-compliant appliance. The temperature-related warning may be further configured to transition between a first state and at least an additional state when the surface of the appliance transitions between a first temperature and at least one additional temperature.

Abstract: A solid-state radio frequency (SSRF) water heating apparatus is disclosed. In embodiments, the SSRF water heater includes a water tank, SSRF generator array and RF sensors enclosed within an RF-shielded cage. The SSRF array synthesizes RF signals in the microwave range and transmits the RF energy through the water tank, exciting and heating the water molecules without direct contact. The RF sensors at the opposite end of the tank sense residual RF energy not absorbed by the water. Control processors regulate the generation and transmission of the RF energy based on the sensed residual energy. The heated water and/or generated steam is piped to hot water dispensers, beverage makers, or steam ovens.