Dynamic Chilled Mini-Bar for Aircraft Passenger Suite

Abstract

A dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: a cover; a movable compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment. A piece of integrated entertainment equipment in a vehicle includes: a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on the integrated entertainment equipment; and an actuator coupled with at least one of a side of the integrated entertainment equipment and the movable compartment, the actuator being operable to translate the movable compartment. A method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: receiving an input signal to translate a movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar; and linearly translating the movable compartment to the second position according to the input signal.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/614,640 entitled “DYNAMIC CHILLED MINI-BAR FOR AIRCRAFT PASSENGER SUITE” and filed on Mar. 23, 2012, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to aircraft integrated entertainment equipment for a super first class interior environment, and more specifically to integrated entertainment equipment including a dynamic translational motion chilled mini-bar in an aircraft super first class passenger suite.

2. Related Art

Known mini-bars for use in aircraft passenger suites normally stand on a floor of the passenger suites. Typically, the mini-bars have doors that open outward and protrude into the passenger suites. To access these mini-bars, passengers must first bend down to open the doors of the mini-bars. To reach the food products or beverages contained within the mini-bars, the passengers must hold the doors open while reaching inside the mini-bars for the desired food or beverages.

These mini-bars that stand on the floor of aircraft passenger suites can be very cumbersome for several reasons. Aircraft passenger suites have limited space available. When the doors of the mini-bars are opened, the doors swing outward into the passenger suites, and reduce the space available in the suites. In addition, it is difficult for passengers to access any food or beverage contained within these mini-bars. When attempting to ascertain the contents of the mini-bars, the passengers must bend down to the level of the mini-bars to hold the doors open, which is an awkward position for the passengers to read the labels of the food and beverages contained within the mini-bars. Furthermore, when the ride is rough due to turbulence or other disturbances, it can be unsafe for passengers to leave their seats to access these mini-bars.

SUMMARY

Embodiments may overcome problems of the known mini-bars to facilitate more space in aircraft passenger suites, maintain the temperature of food products and beverages contained therein at the required food storage temperature, and offer convenient access to food and beverages at any position of passenger seating.

The mini-bars described herein provide the capability for the dynamic chilled mini-bar to be movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment within an aircraft super first class passenger suite. In an embodiment, the dynamic chilled mini-bar includes a cover, a movable compartment, a beverage tray disposed within the movable compartment, and an air-cooled thermoelectric cooling module attached to the beverage tray through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment. The movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar is slidably attached to a side or back of the integrated entertainment equipment via an actuator. During operation, the actuator translates the movable compartment along the side of the integrated entertainment equipment. This way, no portion of the dynamic chilled mini-bar protrudes into the passenger suite when opened compared to when closed, thus facilitating more space in the passenger suite.

In various embodiments, the actuator translates the movable compartment along the side of the integrated entertainment equipment and may stop the movable compartment at various positions to provide access to any food or beverage contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. With this configuration, a passenger, whether seated or standing, can easily access any food or beverages contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Accordingly, the passenger can access the food or beverage contained therein without the difficulties associated with a known mini-bar, such as having to first open a door of the known mini-bar, and then bending down to reach inside the known mini-bar.

In an embodiment, a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: a cover; a movable compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment.

The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include a beverage tray disposed within the movable compartment, where the cooling device is thermally coupled with the beverage tray through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment. The cooling device may cool a surface of the beverage tray to cool the interior of the movable compartment. The beverage tray may be constructed of a thermally conductive material.

The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include a controller operable to control the cooling device to maintain about a preset temperature in the interior of the movable compartment.

The cooling device may include a thermoelectric cooling module. The thermoelectric cooling module may include: at least one thermoelectric cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment; a fan operable to circulate air from outside the thermoelectric cooling module to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device to reject heat from the thermoelectric cooling module to the outside; and a temperature controller operable to control an amount of power delivered to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device.

The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include an actuator operable to translate the movable compartment. The dynamic chilled mini-bar may also include a controller that controls the actuator to linearly translate the movable compartment from a first position to a second position, where the second position is selected from the group consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and partially opened position.

When the movable compartment is in the completely stowed position, the interior of the movable compartment is completely behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the completely opened position, a majority of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened position.

In another embodiment, a piece of integrated entertainment equipment in a vehicle includes: a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on the integrated entertainment; and an actuator coupled with at least one of a side of the integrated entertainment equipment and the movable compartment, the actuator being operable to translate the movable compartment.

The actuator may include: a rotatable screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the screw. When the screw rotates, the movable compartment may be translated linearly. Furthermore, when the screw rotates, the movable compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

In another embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw; a motor operable to rotate the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the screw. When the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly. Furthermore, when the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

In yet another embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw that is stationary; a nut that is rotatable around the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut. When the nut rotates around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly. Furthermore, when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

In an embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw that is stationary; a motor operable to rotate a nut around the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut. When the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly with the screw. Furthermore, when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

In yet another embodiment, a method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: receiving an input signal to translate a movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar; and linearly translating the movable compartment to the second position according to the input signal.

While the exemplary embodiments described herein are presented in the context of a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment in a super first class passenger suite, these embodiments are exemplary only and are not to be considered limiting. The embodiments of the apparatus and configuration are not limited to dynamic chilled mini-bars. For example, embodiments of the apparatus and configuration may be adapted for a refrigerator, freezer, and other food storage and cooking devices. As another example, embodiments of the apparatus and configuration may be adapted to fit within other sizes or areas in an aircraft, vehicle, or other confined space. Various embodiments may thus be used in any vehicle, including aircraft, spacecraft, ships, buses, trains, recreational vehicles, trucks, automobiles, and the like. Embodiments of the apparatus may also be used in homes, offices, hotels, factories, warehouses, garages, and other buildings where it may be desirable to use a dynamic chilled mini-bar.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings listed below:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment in a super first class passenger suite, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar with a cover, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar including a beverage tray and beverages disposed therein, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 4 during operation, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a bottom view illustrating a beverage tray of a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar with a cover movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric cooling module of the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a top view, FIG. 9B is a side view, FIG. 9C is a bottom view, and FIG. 9D is another side view illustrating the thermoelectric cooling module of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a bottom view, and FIG. 10C is a side view illustrating a power supply of the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view, FIG. 11B is a top view, and FIG. 11C a side view illustrating a temperature controller of the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a controller for the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an actuator that translates a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar being translated by the actuator of FIG. 13 during operation.

FIGS. 15A-15C are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment during operation, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment during operation, according to another embodiment.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIGS. 16A and 16B.

FIG. 18A is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 18B and 18C are flowcharts illustrating a method of translating a movable compartment of a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As described herein, a dynamic chilled mini-bar may be movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment within an aircraft super first class passenger suite. In an embodiment, the dynamic chilled mini-bar may include a cover, a movable compartment, a beverage tray disposed within the movable compartment, a thermoelectric cooling module thermally coupled with the beverage tray, a power supply, a temperature controller, and an actuator. The movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar may be slidably attached to a side or back of the integrated entertainment equipment via the actuator. In various embodiments, the actuator translates the movable compartment along the side or the back of the integrated entertainment equipment to emerge from behind the cover, and may stop the movable compartment at various positions to provide access to any food or beverage contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. With this configuration, a passenger, whether seated or standing, can easily access any food or beverages contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Accordingly, the passenger can access the food or beverage within the dynamic chilled mini-bar without the difficulties associated with a known mini-bar, such as having to first open a door of the known mini-bar, and then bending down to reach inside the known mini-bar. Furthermore, no portion of the dynamic chilled mini-bar protrudes into the passenger suite when opened compared to when closed, thus facilitating more space in the passenger suite.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110 in a super first class passenger suite 100, according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210 and a movable compartment 220. The cover 210 may be opaque to match the façade of the integrated entertainment equipment 110, or transparent (as shown in FIG. 2) to provide passengers with a view of any contents within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. As shown in FIG. 1B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is translated to an open position, so that passengers may easily access beverages 300. Furthermore, the cover 210 may be opened or removed to facilitate maintenance and cleaning.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 with a cover 210, according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220, and a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the thermoelectric cooling module 240 distributes cool temperatures across a surface of the beverage tray 230, and in turn, the beverage tray 230 cools contents contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. Because the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is thermally coupled with and directly attached to the beverage tray 230, the contents contained therein are chilled regardless of whether the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in an open position as shown in FIG. 1B or in a stowed position as shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 including a beverage tray 230 and beverages 300 disposed therein, according to an embodiment. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a movable compartment 220 and a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220. The beverage tray 230 holds beverages 300 within the movable compartment 220 and cools the beverages 300 using a thermoelectric cooling module 240 (as shown in FIG. 2).

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110, according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220, a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220, a power supply 250, a temperature controller 260, and a power cord retainer 270. The power supply 250 may provide power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240, the temperature controller 260, and an actuator (see FIGS. 13, 14A, and 14B). The power cord retainer 270 contains a power cord (271 in FIG. 5B), and an end of the power cord is connected to the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 4 during operation, according to an embodiment. In FIG. 5A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed position, where the cover 210 completely covers a front opening and an interior of the movable compartment 220. The thermoelectric cooling module 240 is disposed at the bottom of the movable compartment 220 and is thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230. The power supply 250, the temperature controller 260, and the power cord retainer 270 are disposed adjacent to a bottom of the integrated entertainment equipment 110.

As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is translated to a partially open position. The movable compartment 220 is translated vertically upward so the front opening and the interior of the movable compartment 220 are partially exposed or not covered by the cover 210. Since the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 and disposed at the bottom of the movable compartment 220, when the movable compartment 220 is translated along a side or back of the integrated entertainment equipment 110, the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is also translated along with the movable compartment 220. The power cord 271, which is connected to the thermoelectric cooling module 240, extends out of the power cord retainer 270 when the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is translated along with the movable compartment 220. This way, the power cord 271 may transfer power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 regardless of the position of the movable compartment 220.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the movable compartment 220 is translated into a completely opened position, so that a majority of the front opening and the interior of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or not covered by the cover 210. On the other hand, when the movable compartment 220 is translated to a partially opened position as shown in FIG. 5B, less of the interior of the movable compartment 220 is exposed from behind the cover 210 than when the movable compartment 220 is in the completely opened position as shown in FIG. 5C. Because the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is configured to translate along with the movable compartment 220, even if the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is left open for an extended period of time in the partially opened position or in the completely opened position, the thermoelectric cooling module 240 can continuously cool the beverage tray 230, which would keep any food or beverages disposed on the beverage tray 230 chilled and fresh.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a bottom view illustrating a beverage tray 230 of a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an embodiment. FIG. 6A illustrates a beverage tray 230 movably disposed within a movable compartment 220. A bottom of the movable compartment 220 includes an opening 221 configured to fit a thermoelectric cooling module 240 that may be thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230. The beverage tray 230 may be constructed of a water tight metallic material, but this should not be construed as limiting. The beverage tray 230 may be constructed using other thermally conductive materials as known in the art. The beverage tray 230 may further include a lip along edges of the beverage tray 230 to help secure any food or beverages disposed thereon. The beverage tray 230 may evenly distribute chilled temperature across a surface that contacts the beverages and food products. Furthermore, the beverage tray 230 may collect any condensation, spills, or leakages from the beverages or food products to facilitate maintenance and cleaning In various embodiments, the beverage tray 230 may be decoupled from the thermoelectric cooling module 240 and removed from the movable compartment 220 to be cleaned.

FIG. 6B is a bottom view illustrating a beverage tray 230 of a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an embodiment. The beverage tray 230 includes an area 231 for coupling with the thermoelectric cooling module 240. When coupled with or attached to the thermoelectric cooling module 240, the surface of the beverage tray 230 provides cooling contact with beverages or food products. Through packaging of the beverages and the food products, heat transfers from the beverages and food products to the beverage tray 230 and the thermoelectric cooling module 240, and thus the beverages and food products are chilled and cooled by the beverage tray 230 and the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 with a cover 210 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110, according to an embodiment. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be movably installed on a side or back of the integrated entertainment equipment 110. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220, a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220, a power supply 250, a temperature controller 260, and a power cord retainer 270. The power supply 250 may provide power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 and the temperature controller 260. The power cord retainer 270 houses a power cord, and an end of the power cord is connected to the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric cooling module 240 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. The thermoelectric cooling module 240 includes a fan 241, a connector 242, and at least one thermoelectric cooling device housed inside the thermoelectric cooling module 240. The fan 241 circulates air from an aircraft cabin or passenger suite to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device inside the thermoelectric cooling module 240, and rejects heat from the thermoelectric cooling module 240 back into the aircraft cabin or passenger suite. The connector 242 may be connected to a power cord, for example, the power cord 271 as shown in FIG. 5B, to supply power to the fan 241 and the at least one thermoelectric cooling device.

FIG. 9A is a top view, FIG. 9B is a side view, FIG. 9C is a bottom view, and FIG. 9D is another side view illustrating the thermoelectric cooling module 240 of FIG. 8. FIG. 9A illustrates a top view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 of FIG. 8. The thermoelectric cooling module 240 includes a fan 241, a connector 242, and at least one thermoelectric cooling device. FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240. A housing of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 contains the at least one thermoelectric cooling device. FIG. 9C illustrates a bottom view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240. A bottom side of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 may be thermally coupled with or attached to the beverage tray 230 to distribute cool temperature across a surface of the beverage tray 230. FIG. 9D illustrates another side view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a bottom view, and FIG. 10C is a side view illustrating a power supply 250 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. FIG. 10A illustrates the power supply 250, which provides power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 as shown in FIG. 8, the temperature controller 260, and an actuator that translates the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The power supply 250 converts aircraft AC (alternating current) power supply to DC (direct current) power supply. In other embodiments, the power supply 250 may convert AC current, voltage, or power to DC current, voltage, or power, respectively. The power supply 250 includes a housing 251 and terminal pins 252. The terminal pins 252 may provide ground, input, and output connections between the power supply 250 and other devices. Additionally, the power supply 250 may be attached or mounted to the integrated entertainment equipment 110, but this should not be construed as limiting. FIG. 10B illustrates a bottom view of the power supply 250. FIG. 10C illustrates a side view of the power supply 250. In an embodiment, the power supply 250 may input 120 Vac at 60 Hz and output 12Vdc, 12 A.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view, FIG. 11B is a top view, and FIG. 11C a side view illustrating a temperature controller 260 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. FIG. 11A illustrates the temperature controller 260, which monitors and controls the temperature in the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The temperature controller 260 may include dials 261 to adjust settings, for example, temperature, voltage, and fan speed of the thermoelectric cooling module 240. The temperature controller 260 may control an amount of power delivered to the thermoelectric cooling module 240. This operation may be performed using a pulse-width modulation (PWM) technique. For example, a high current output of 12Vdc, 24 A at 25 degrees Celsius may be provided to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 according to a PWM signal. A safety device for temperature protection may also be included in the temperature controller 260.

FIG. 11B illustrates a top view of the temperature controller 260. FIG. 11C illustrates a side view of the temperature controller 260. The temperature controller 260 may be connected to the power supply 250. Alternatively, the temperature controller 260 and the power supply 250 may be housed together as one component.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a controller 1200 that controls the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. The controller 1200 may supplement or replace the temperature controller 260. The controller 1200 may be installed on the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 or the integrated entertainment equipment 110. The controller 1200 may be coupled with a control panel 1240 via an I/O interface 1230. The controller 1200 may receive input commands from a user via the control panel 1240, such as turning the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 on or off, selecting an operation mode, translating the movable compartment 220 into an opened or stowed position, and setting a desired temperature of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The controller 1200 may output information to the user regarding an operational status (e.g., operational mode, activation of a defrost cycle, shut-off due to over-temperature conditions of the movable compartment 220 and/or components of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, etc.) of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 using a display of the control panel 1240. The control panel 1240 may be installed on or remotely from embodiments of the dynamic chilled mini-bar and integrated entertainment equipment with which the controller 1200 may be coupled.

The controller 1200 may include a processor 1210 that performs computations according to program instructions, a memory 1220 that stores the computing instructions and other data used or generated by the processor 1210, and a network interface 1250 that includes data communications circuitry for interfacing to a data communications network 1290 such as Ethernet, Galley Data Bus (GAN), or Controller Area Network (CAN). The processor 1210 may include a microprocessor, a Field Programmable Gate Array, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit, or a custom Very Large Scale Integrated circuit chip, or other electronic circuitry that performs a control function. The processor 1210 may also include a state machine. The controller 1200 may also include one or more electronic circuits and printed circuit boards. The processor 1210, memory 1220, and network interface 1250 may be coupled with one another using one or more data buses 1280. The controller 1200 may communicate with and control various sensors and actuators 1270 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 via a control interface 1260.

The controller 1200 may be controlled by or communicate with a centralized computing system, such as one onboard an aircraft. The controller 1200 may implement a compliant ARINC 812 logical communication interface on a compliant ARINC 810 physical interface. The controller 1200 may communicate via the Galley Data Bus (e.g., galley networked GAN bus), and exchange data with a Galley Network Controller (e.g., Master GAIN Control Unit as described in the ARINC 812 specification). In accordance with the ARINC 812 specification, the controller 1200 may provide network monitoring, power control, remote operation, failure monitoring, and data transfer functions. The controller 1200 may implement menu definitions requests received from the Galley Network Controller (GNC) for presentation on a GNC Touchpanel display device and process associated button push events to respond appropriately. The controller 1200 may provide additional communications using an RS-232 communications interface and/or an infrared data port, such as communications with a personal computer (PC) or a personal digital assistant (PDA). Such additional communications may include real-time monitoring of operations of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, long-term data retrieval, and control system software upgrades. In addition, the control interface 1260 may include a serial peripheral interface (SPI) bus that may be used to communicate between the controller 1200 and motor controllers within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200.

The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is configured to chill and/or refrigerate beverages and/or food products which are placed in the movable compartment 220. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may operate in one or more of several modes, including refrigeration and beverage chilling. A user may select a desired temperature for the movable compartment 220 using the control panel 1240. The controller 1200 included with the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may control a temperature within the movable compartment 220 at a high level of precision according to the desired temperature. Therefore, quality of beverages and/or food products stored within the movable compartment 220 may be maintained according to the user-selected operational mode of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200.

In various embodiments, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may maintain a temperature inside the movable compartment 220 according to a user-selectable option among several preprogrammed preset temperatures, or according to a specific user-input preset temperature. For example, a beverage chiller mode may maintain the temperature inside the movable compartment 220 at a user-selectable temperature of about 9 degrees centigrade (C), 12 degrees C., or 16 degrees C. In a refrigerator mode, the temperature inside the movable compartment 220 may be maintained at a user-selectable temperature of about 4 degrees C. or 7 degrees C.

The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be controlled by an electronic control system associated with the controller 1200. The memory 1220 of the controller 1200 may store a program for performing a method of controlling the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 executable by the processor 1210. The method of controlling the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 performed by the electronic control system may include a feedback control system such that the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may automatically maintain a prescribed temperature in the movable compartment 220 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 using sensor data, such as temperature, to control the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an actuator 280 that translates a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the actuator 280 is disposed on a side or back of integrated entertainment equipment 110. The actuator 280 may be an electromechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or other actuators known in the art. Furthermore, the actuator 280 may be operated using a controller, for example, the controller 1200 as shown in FIG. 12, an electrical controller, an electromechanical controller, or other controllers known in the art. In other embodiments, the function of the actuator 280 may be performed manually. The controller that controls the actuator 280 may be installed on the integrated entertainment equipment 110 or on the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The controller may receive input commands from a user via input devices to translate the movable compartment 220 to an opened or stowed position.

The actuator 280 may include a bracket 281 and a screw 283. The actuator 280 converts rotary motion, such as that of a motor, into linear displacement via the screw 283, with which the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is coupled. The bracket 281 may be movably coupled with the screw 283 and to a side of the movable compartment 220 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. Accordingly, when the motor of the actuator 280 rotates the screw, the movable compartment 220 that is coupled to the bracket 281 is translated linearly. This should not be construed as limiting. For example, in other embodiments, the screw 283 may be stationary, while the motor of actuator 280 rotates a nut around the screw 283, and the bracket 281 is coupled with the nut rather than the screw 283. In yet other embodiments, the actuator 280 may be operated manually using a rotatable screw or by rotating a nut around a stationary screw. Furthermore, when the screw rotates, the movable compartment 220 may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw. In other embodiments, when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable compartment 220 may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 being translated by the actuator 280 of FIG. 13 during operation. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a stowed position. A side of the movable compartment 220 is coupled with or attached to the bracket 281. A first end of the bracket 281 is coupled with the screw 283, and a second end of the bracket 281 is coupled with a rail 282 to stabilize the bracket 281 and to support a combined weight of the movable compartment 220, the beverage tray 230, and the beverages 300.

In FIG. 14B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is translated vertically upward along the side of the integrated entertainment equipment 110 by the actuator 280. When the screw 283 is rotated, either by a motor or manually, the bracket 281 is moved vertically along an axis parallel to a length-wise direction of the screw. Accordingly, the movable compartment 220 disposed on the bracket 281 is translated along the same vertical axis. As shown in FIG. 14B, the movable compartment 220 is translated into an opened position, where the beverage tray 230 and the beverages 300 are accessible to passengers. Although the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is shown to be moving along a vertical axis, the described embodiment should not be construed as limiting. In other embodiments, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be translated along a horizontal or diagonal axis. The movable compartment 220 may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw 283.

FIGS. 15A-15C are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110 during operation, according to an embodiment. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220, a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220, and a power cord retainer 270 disposed adjacent to a bottom of the integrated entertainment equipment 110. As illustrated in FIG. 15A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed position, where the cover 210 completely covers a front opening and interior of the movable compartment 220. As shown in FIG. 15B, the movable compartment 220 is translated into a partially opened position, where an upper half of the front opening of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or not covered by the cover 210. FIG. 15C illustrates the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 translated into a completely opened position, where a majority of the front opening and interior of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or not covered by the cover 210. Passengers may gain access to any contents in the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 when the movable compartment 220 is in a partially opened position as shown in FIG. 15B or in a completely opened position as illustrated in FIG. 15C. In addition, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 220 may be stopped at any desired position between the completely stowed position and the completely opened position.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110 during operation, according to another embodiment. FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIGS. 16A and 16B. As shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be integrated into the integrated entertainment equipment 110. In FIGS. 16A and 17A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed position. In FIGS. 16B and 17B, the movable compartment 220 of the mini-bar 200 is translated into a completely opened position to expose the beverage tray 230 which holds the beverages 300. With this configuration, a passenger, whether seated or standing, can easily access any food or beverages contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 20. Furthermore, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 does not protrude into a super first class passenger suite 100 when opened compared to when closed, thus facilitating more space in the super first class passenger suite 100.

FIG. 18A is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment. In step S1802, an input signal is received to translate a movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Then in step S1804, the movable compartment is linearly translated to the second position according to the input signal. The second position may be selected from the group consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and partially opened position. When the movable compartment is in the completely stowed position, an interior of the movable compartment is completely behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the completely opened position, a majority of an interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened position. The group of positions may be preprogrammed or preset prior to operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Alternatively, the second position may be specified by a user during operation.

FIGS. 18B and 18C are flowcharts illustrating a method of translating a movable compartment of a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according various embodiments. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18B, a screw is rotated in step S1804-2. The screw may be rotated by a motor or through manual operation. Then in step S1804-4, the rotary motion of the screw is converted to linear motion, and the movable compartment is linearly translated in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18C, a nut is rotated around a stationary screw in step S1804-6. The nut may be rotated around the screw by a motor or through manual operation. Then in step S1804-8, the rotary motion of the nut around the screw is converted to linear motion, and the movable compartment is linearly translated in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

While the exemplary embodiments described herein are presented in the context of a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment in a super first class passenger suite, these embodiments are exemplary only and are not to be considered limiting. The embodiments of the apparatus and configuration are not limited to dynamic chilled mini-bars. For example, embodiments of the apparatus and configuration may be adapted for a refrigerator, freezer, and other food storage and cooking devices. As another example, embodiments of the apparatus and configuration may be adapted to fit within other sizes or areas in an aircraft or vehicle. Various embodiments may thus be used in any vehicle, including aircraft, spacecraft, ships, buses, trains, recreational vehicles, trucks, automobiles, and the like. Embodiments of the apparatus may also be used in homes, offices, hotels, factories, warehouses, garages, and other buildings where it may be desirable to use a dynamic chilled mini-bar.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference has been made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language has been used to describe these embodiments. However, no limitation of the scope of the invention is intended by this specific language, and the invention should be construed to encompass all embodiments that would normally occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting of exemplary embodiments of the invention. In the description of the embodiments, certain detailed explanations of related art are omitted when it is deemed that they may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention.

The apparatus described herein may comprise a processor, a memory for storing program data to be executed by the processor, a permanent storage such as a disk drive, a communications port for handling communications with external devices, and user interface devices, including a display, touch panel, keys, buttons, etc. When software modules are involved, these software modules may be stored as program instructions or computer readable code executable by the processor on a non-transitory computer-readable media such as magnetic storage media (e.g., magnetic tapes, hard disks, floppy disks), optical recording media (e.g., CD-ROMs, Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), etc.), and solid state memory (e.g., random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), static random-access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, thumb drives, etc.). The computer readable recording media may also be distributed over network coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. This computer readable recording media may be read by the computer, stored in the memory, and executed by the processor.

Also, using the disclosure herein, programmers of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains may easily implement functional programs, codes, and code segments for making and using the invention.

The invention may be described in terms of functional block components and various processing steps. Such functional blocks may be realized by any number of hardware and/or software components configured to perform the specified functions. For example, the invention may employ various integrated circuit components, e.g., memory elements, processing elements, logic elements, look-up tables, and the like, which may carry out a variety of functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Similarly, where the elements of the invention are implemented using software programming or software elements, the invention may be implemented with any programming or scripting language such as C, C++, JAVA®, assembler, or the like, with the various algorithms being implemented with any combination of data structures, objects, processes, routines or other programming elements. Functional aspects may be implemented in algorithms that execute on one or more processors. Furthermore, the invention may employ any number of conventional techniques for electronics configuration, signal processing and/or control, data processing and the like. Finally, the steps of all methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

For the sake of brevity, conventional electronics, control systems, software development and other functional aspects of the systems (and components of the individual operating components of the systems) may not be described in detail. Furthermore, the connecting lines, or connectors shown in the various figures presented are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical or logical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships, physical connections or logical connections may be present in a practical device. The words “mechanism”, “element”, “unit”, “structure”, “means”, and “construction” are used broadly and are not limited to mechanical or physical embodiments, but may include software routines in conjunction with processors, etc.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. Numerous modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in this art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims. Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined not by the detailed description of the invention but by the following claims, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being included in the invention.

No item or component is essential to the practice of the invention unless the element is specifically described as “essential” or “critical”. It will also be recognized that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” and “having,” as used herein, are specifically intended to be read as open-ended terms of art. The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, it should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms, which are only used to distinguish one element from another. Furthermore, recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

Claims

1. A dynamic chilled mini-bar comprising:

a cover;

a movable compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and

a cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment.

2. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising:

a beverage tray disposed within the movable compartment, wherein the cooling device is thermally coupled with the beverage tray through an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment.

3. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 2, wherein the cooling device cools a surface of the beverage tray to cool the interior of the movable compartment.

4. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 2, wherein the beverage tray is constructed of a thermally conductive material.

5. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising:

a controller operable to control the cooling device to maintain about a preset temperature in the interior of the movable compartment.

6. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, wherein the cooling device comprises a thermoelectric cooling module comprising:

at least one thermoelectric cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment;

a fan operable to circulate air from outside the at thermoelectric cooling module to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device to reject heat from the thermoelectric cooling module to the outside; and

a temperature controller operable to control an amount of power delivered to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device.

7. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising:

an actuator operable to translate the movable compartment.

8. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 7, further comprising:

a controller that controls the actuator to linearly translate the movable compartment from a first position to a second position, wherein the second position is selected from the group consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and partially opened position.

9. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 8, wherein when the movable compartment is in the completely stowed position, the interior of the movable compartment is completely behind the cover.

10. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 8, wherein when the movable compartment is in the completely opened position, a majority of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover.

11. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 10, wherein when the movable compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened position.

12. A piece of integrated entertainment equipment in a vehicle, the piece of integrated entertainment equipment comprising:

a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on the integrated entertainment equipment, the dynamic chilled mini-bar comprising: a cover; a movable compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment; and

an actuator coupled with at least one of a side of the integrated entertainment equipment and the movable compartment, the actuator being operable to translate the movable compartment.

13. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the dynamic chilled mini-bar further comprising:

a controller operable to control the cooling device to maintain about a preset temperature in the interior of the movable compartment.

14. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the actuator comprising:

a rotatable screw; and

a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the screw,

wherein when the screw rotates, the movable compartment is translated linearly.

15. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 14, wherein when the screw rotates, the movable compartment is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

16. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the actuator comprising:

a screw;

a motor operable to rotate the screw; and

a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the screw,

wherein when the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly.

17. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 16, wherein when the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

18. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the actuator comprising:

a screw that is stationary;

a nut that is rotatable around the screw; and

a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut,

wherein when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly.

19. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 18, wherein when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

20. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the actuator comprising:

a screw that is stationary;

a motor operable to rotate a nut around the screw; and

a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut,

wherein when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly with the screw.

21. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 20, wherein when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

22. A method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar, the method comprising:

receiving an input signal to translate a movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar; and

linearly translating the movable compartment to the second position according to the input signal.

23. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to claim 22, wherein the second position is selected from the group consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and partially opened position.

24. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to claim 23, wherein when the movable compartment is in the completely stowed position, an interior of the movable compartment is completely behind the cover.

25. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to claim 23, wherein when the movable compartment is in the completely opened position, a majority of an interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover.

26. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to claim 25, wherein when the movable compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened position.