Abstract: Various methods are presented that facilitate the connection of a speaker system to a separate functional system. In some embodiments, the connection is made through a male and female connector designed to twist into a locking position. In other embodiments, the connection is made by a guided connection with beveled edges to facilitate correct alignment of the speaker system. In still other embodiments, the connection includes mechanical locking mechanisms with a quick disconnect feature. In other embodiments, the connection also facilitates transmission of electrical signals through the connector.

Abstract: A deployable receptacle includes a tray for supporting an object thereon and being movable between a storing position and a deploying position. The tray stores an object thereon when the tray is disposed in the storing position and deploys the object therefrom when the tray is disposed in the deploying position. A lever is coupled to the tray for moving the tray between the storing position and the deploying position.

Abstract: One advantageous embodiment of the present invention is an integrated transport system (14) for moving an object (20) in an aircraft (10) between a main cabin (16) and an overhead cabin (18) via a shaft (24) in connection therebetween. This integrated transport system (14) includes a single-unit gantry-lift device (42) with an object carrier (32) for receiving the object (20). This object carrier (32) has one or more restraint members (34, 38) for securing the object (20) in the object carrier (32) and preventing the object (20) from inadvertently tipping or falling out of the object carrier (32). In this embodiment, the single-unit gantry-lift device (42) further includes a lift device (46) for moving the object carrier (32) generally along a longitudinal axis (22) of the shaft (24) and a gantry device (44) for moving the object carrier (32) generally along a first axis (26) of the overhead cabin (18) and/or a second axis (28), which is disposed generally perpendicular to the first axis (26).

Abstract: One advantageous embodiment of the present invention is an integrated transport system (14) for moving an object (20) in an aircraft (10) between a main cabin (16) and an overhead cabin (18) via a shaft (24) in connection therebetween. This integrated transport system (14) includes a single-unit gantry-lift device (42) with an object carrier (32) for receiving the object (20). This object carrier (32) has one or more restraint members (34, 38) for securing the object (20) in the object carrier (32) and preventing the object (20) from inadvertently tipping or falling out of the object carrier (32). In this embodiment, the single-unit gantry-lift device (42) further includes a lift device (46) for moving the object carrier (32) generally along a longitudinal axis (22) of the shaft (24) and a gantry device (44) for moving the object carrier (32) generally along a first axis (26) of the overhead cabin (18) and/or a second axis (28), which is disposed generally perpendicular to the first axis (26).