Mounting systems for personal electronic devices and related methods

A mounting system may be installed in an aircraft, such as by installing a first plate and a second plate on either side of a sandwich panel wall in a personal space of an aircraft. The first plate and second plate may be coupled together, and a structural interface may receive a mounting accessory such that it is positioned adjacent the first plate. A personal electronic device may be mounted to the mounting accessory, thereby facilitating use of the personal electronic device on-board the aircraft. Such a mounting system may facilitate the use of personal electronic devices in lieu of costly in-flight entertainment systems. The first plate and second plate may be secured to a honeycomb core sandwich panel, such that fasteners may extend through inserts extending through the core, thereby distributing the weight of the personal electronic device and mounting accessory via the first plate and second plate.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to mounting systems for personal electronic devices and related methods.

BACKGROUND

Personal spaces, such as crew rest areas, are often provided on aircraft, such as to allow crew members to rest when their shift has been completed. Within these personal spaces, many airlines provide entertainment options such as built-in audio listening ports, video monitors, controllers, and charging ports. However, the cost of providing in-flight entertainment is relatively high, and maintenance of these built-in entertainment systems is also costly, due to the need to replace such systems with relative frequency due to technological obsolescence. Furthermore, in-flight entertainment systems generally are not customizable to crew or passenger preferences.

SUMMARY

Presently disclosed mounting systems and related methods may facilitate use of personal electronic devices on aircraft in a manner that is comfortable for the user, aesthetically appealing, and structurally secure. Such uses may include a crew member using his or her own personal electronic device within a personal space of the aircraft, and/or may include mounting a personal electronic device within the aircraft for commercial use, such as for facilitating communication or taking orders from passengers. Facilitating use of a crew member's or passenger's own personal electronic device configured for their individual preferences may advantageously improve their experience, as compared to using uniform, generally non-customizable standard in-flight entertainment systems.

One example of a mounting system may include a sandwich panel and a structural portion coupled to the sandwich panel. The sandwich panel may include a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a core extending between the first surface and the second surface. The structural portion may include a first plate having a first outer surface and a first inner surface opposite the first outer surface and a second plate having a second outer surface and a second inner surface opposite the second outer surface. The structural portion may be coupled to the sandwich panel such that the first plate is coupled to the first surface of the sandwich panel, with the first inner surface facing the first surface of the sandwich panel, and such that the second plate is coupled to the second surface of the sandwich panel, with the second inner surface facing the second surface of the sandwich panel. Thus, the second plate may be coupled with respect to the first plate such that a portion of the sandwich panel is positioned therebetween. The structural portion may also include a structural interface configured to receive a mounting accessory for a personal electronic device such that the mounting accessory is positioned adjacent the first plate.

Presently disclosed methods may include providing the structural portion of the mounting system, coupling the first plate to the first surface of the sandwich panel, and coupling the second plate to the second surface of the sandwich panel. In some methods, a personal electronic device may be mounted to the structural portion of the mounting system (e.g., to the mounting accessory), and may be used by a crew member on the aircraft. In some methods, the mounting accessory may be selectively removable and interchangeable, such that the mounting accessory may be removed from the structural interface of the mounting system, and a different mounting accessory may be coupled to the structural interface, such as to receive a different personal electronic device.

DESCRIPTION

Mounting systems for personal electronic devices and related methods are disclosed herein. InFIG. 1, an example of an aircraft10that may include one or more mounting systems12provided in a personal space14within aircraft10. Presently disclosed mounting systems12may be configured to allow crew members and/or passengers to mount their own personal electronic devices in a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and structurally secure manner, for use of the personal electronic device while on aircraft10. Aircraft10is shown in the form of a fixed wing aircraft, but other types and configurations of aircraft are within the scope the present disclosure, including (but not limited to) helicopters.

Aircraft10may include a fuselage16, which generally corresponds to the main body of aircraft10for holding passengers, crew, cargo, and/or equipment, for example, depending on the particular configuration and/or function of an aircraft10. Typically, although not required, the fuselage16of an aircraft10is elongate and somewhat cylindrical or tubular. Aircraft10also may include wings18, horizontal stabilizers20, and a vertical stabilizer22, each of which may be constructed as a unitary structure or in subsections that are subsequently assembled together. Within fuselage16, aircraft10may include one or more personal spaces14, such as one or more crew rests24, lavatories26, private suites28, galley areas30, and/or a cockpit32. Aircraft10may include one or more interior monuments34within such personal spaces14or within fuselage16(e.g., within the main cabin of aircraft10), to which presently disclosed mounting systems12may be coupled. Such interior monuments34may include a substantially vertical surface, and/or may include a portion of one or more of a main cabin36, a passenger service unit38, a side wall40, a passenger seat42, an aircraft closet44, galley area30, a galley cart46, lavatory26, cockpit32, and crew rest24(e.g., a crew rest wall), each of which may be formed by or include one or more sandwich panels48.

FIG. 2illustrates a schematic view of representative, non-exclusive examples of mounting systems12according to the present disclosure. Generally, in the figures, elements that are likely to be included in a given example are illustrated in solid lines, while elements that are optional to a given example are illustrated in broken lines. However, elements that are illustrated in solid lines are not essential to all examples of the present disclosure, and an element shown in solid lines may be omitted from a particular example without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 2, mounting system12may include sandwich panel48and a structural portion50coupled to sandwich panel48. Structural portion50may be configured to be sufficiently structurally secure with respect to sandwich panel48to account for various loads (e.g., various weights of personal electronic devices that may be secured thereto, as well as loads associated with a user adjusting structural portion50and/or other components of mounting system12during use), and remain coupled to sandwich panel48during and after these various loads.

Sandwich panel48may include a first skin layer51having a first surface52, a second skin layer53having a second surface54, and a core56extending between first surface52and second surface54, such that first skin layer51and second skin layer53are positioned on opposites sides of core56from one another. First skin layer51may be arranged such that first surface52faces outwardly and away from core56. Similarly, second skin layer53may be arranged such that second surface54faces outwardly and away from core56. Sandwich panel48may be formed of any suitable materials, having a flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid first skin layer51, and a flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid second skin layer53, and core56therebetween. Generally, first skin layer51and second skin layer53may be relatively thin sheets or plates, while core56may have a thickness that is significantly greater than the respective thicknesses of first skin layer51and second skin layer53. In some examples, the density of core56may be less than that of first skin layer51and second skin layer53. Sandwich panel48may be, for example, a honeycomb core sandwich panel, but other constructions are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. First skin layer51and second skin layer53may be, for example, aluminum sheets, or may be formed of one or more layers or plys of composite materials (e.g., fiber-reinforced polymers). In some examples, core56may be formed of a plurality of longitudinally-extending open cells of any shape, and formed of any material, such as aluminum, Nomex®, or other lightweight material. In some examples, core56may be formed of foamed material, or low-density materials, such as balsa wood or polystyrene.

Structural portion50may include a first plate58positioned on one side of sandwich panel48(e.g., adjacent first surface52) and a second plate60positioned on the other side of sandwich panel48(e.g., adjacent second surface54). First plate58may include a first outer surface62and a first inner surface64opposite first outer surface62. First plate58may be positioned with respect to sandwich panel48such that first plate58is coupled to first surface52, with first inner surface64of first plate58facing and coupled to first surface52of sandwich panel48. For example, sandwich panel48may form a portion of an interior monument (e.g., interior monument34) within an aircraft (e.g., aircraft10), and first plate58may be coupled to first surface52of the interior monument such that first inner surface64faces first surface52.

Similarly, second plate60may include a second outer surface66and a second inner surface68opposite second outer surface66. Second plate60may be positioned with respect to sandwich panel48such that second plate60is coupled to second surface54, with second inner surface68of second plate60facing second surface54of sandwich panel48. Thus, second plate60may be coupled with respect to first plate58such that a portion of sandwich panel48is positioned therebetween. Thus, first plate58may be spaced apart from second plate60by a distance86when structural portion50is coupled to sandwich panel48, distance86being defined by the thickness of sandwich panel48. In other words, distance86between first plate58and second plate60may be measured between first inner surface64of first plate58and second inner surface68of second plate60, substantially perpendicularly to first inner surface64and second inner surface68. Distance86may be, for example, at least 0.10 inches (in) (0.25 centimeters (cm)), at least 0.25 in (0.64 cm), at least 0.5 in (1.27 cm), at least 0.75 in (1.91 cm), at least 1 in (2.54 cm), at least 1.5 in (3.81 cm), at least 2 in (5.08 cm), and/or greater than 2 in. Second plate60may be a double bracket in some examples.

Structural portion50of mounting system12may include a structural interface70that is configured to receive a mounting accessory72(e.g., mounting accessory72may be configured to be coupled to structural interface70). In turn, mounting accessory72may be configured to receive a personal electronic device74and maintain personal electronic device74in a position relative to sandwich panel48(e.g., interior monument34), wherein the position is suitable for use and/or viewing by a passenger and/or crew member adjacent sandwich panel48. Mounting system12may be configured to suspend personal electronic device74from sandwich panel48, thereby positioning personal electronic device74for use and securing it to sandwich panel48via structural portion50and mounting accessory72coupled thereto. In some examples, sandwich panel48may be substantially vertically oriented within aircraft10. The position and orientation of personal electronic device74may be adjusted with respect to sandwich panel48, such as by tilting or rotating mounting accessory72. Furthermore, various different types of personal electronic devices74, having different respective weights may be secured to presently disclosed mounting systems12. Thus, mounting systems12may be configured to be securely coupled to sandwich panel48and strong enough to withstand such variable loads from different types of personal electronic devices74, from loads associated with adjusting mounting accessory72or other components of structural portion50in order to adjust the position of personal electronic device74, from loads associated with securing personal electronic device74to mounting accessory72, from loads associated with removing or replacing mounting accessory72, and/or from loads associated with forces and movements experienced on the aircraft.

Structural interface70may be formed integrally with first plate58in some examples. Alternatively, structural interface70may be removably coupled to first plate58, such as adjacent first outer surface62of first plate58. For example, structural interface70may be configured to receive a plurality of different types of mounting accessories72for a plurality of different personal electronic devices74, where structural interface70may be selectively removable from first plate58and replaced with a different type of structural interface70, such as to receive a different mounting accessory72. Structural interface70may be removably coupled to first plate58(e.g., to first outer surface62of first plate58) using, for example, one or more mounting floating nut plates, fasteners, adhesives, suction cups, magnets, drill plates, base plates, bolts, tracks, and/or a snap fit. In some examples, first plate58may include a plurality of structural interfaces70for receiving a plurality of respective personal electronic devices74. In some examples, first outer surface62of first plate58itself may serve as structural interface70.

Mounting system12and structural interface70may be configured such that mounting accessory72is positioned adjacent first plate58. For example, structural interface70may be configured to receive mounting accessory72such that mounting accessory72is positioned adjacent first outer surface62of first plate58. Structural interface70may project outwardly from first outer surface62of first plate58when structural interface70is coupled to first plate58. Structural interface70may include forms such as a spherical elastomeric knob76(seeFIG. 6), a base, a ball, a suction cup, a clamp, a screw, a clip, a base plate, a track, a groove, and/or a recess formed in first plate58.

Mounting accessory72may be, for example, an adjustable mounting arm, an adjustable mounting bracket, a mounting arm, a clamp, a holder, a cradle, a grip, a socket, a spring, and/or a tripod. Mounting accessory72may be any structure that is configured to maintain personal electronic device74in a position suitable for use and/or viewing by a passenger and/or crew member on the aircraft. In some examples, mounting accessory72may be fitted such that it is configured to hold or receive a specific size of personal electronic device74. In other examples, mounting accessory72may be adjustable such that it may be adapted to hold or receive a variety of sizes of personal electronic devices74. Mounting accessory72may be moveably and/or removably coupled to structural interface70, such as via one or more of a hinge, a ball-and-socket joint, a spring, a cord, a retractable cord, a screw, a pivot, a bearing, and a track. Mounting accessory72may be selectively removable from structural interface70such that a different type, style, and/or size of mounting accessory72may be coupled to structural interface70. Any type of personal electronic device74may be coupled to structural interface70via mounting accessory72, examples of which include a mobile telephone, a tablet, a laptop, a camera, an e-reader, a handheld computer game system, a portable media player, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant, a music player, a GPS device, and/or an MP3 player.

Mounting system12(e.g., structural portion50) may include one or more charging interfaces78that each may be configured to charge personal electronic device74. For example, each charging interface78may be a USB port, a micro-USB port, a three-prong outlet, a two-prong outlet, a Lightning port, a wireless charging interface, a headphone jack, a dock connector port, or a portable digital media interface (PDMI) port. Thus, a cable may be used to connect personal electronic device74to charging interface78such that personal electronic device74may be charged while in use and retained by mounting system12. In some examples, one or more charging interfaces78may be positioned adjacent structural interface50, such as on first outer surface62of first plate58. In some examples, charging interface78may include a first charging interface96and a second charging interface98, where first charging interface96is a different type than second charging interface98. For example, first charging interface96may be a USB port, while second charging interface98may be a Lightning port for receiving a Lightning connector.

Sandwich panel48may be a portion of an interior monument34and/or personal space14(seeFIG. 1) within aircraft10. For example, first surface52may be a portion of an interior wall, such as side wall40of aircraft10. Second surface54may be a portion of an exterior wall of aircraft10. For example, mounting system12may be installed within a personal space14, such as crew rest24, such that first plate58is coupled to a side wall40inside crew rest24, while second plate60is coupled to a side wall40outside of crew rest24. First plate58and second plate60may be formed of any suitable materials. For example, first plate58may be polymeric and/or metallic. Second plate60may be polymeric and/or metallic. First outer surface62of first plate58may include a substantially smooth surface, such that first plate58may be configured to receive and retain a suction cup.

In some mounting systems12, sandwich panel48may include a cut-out80extending through at least a portion of core56, from second surface54of sandwich panel48. Such cut-out80may be configured to receive a power component82(e.g., a wire, a cable, a power supply, a current source, a voltage source, and/or a charger). Such power component82may be electrically accessible from the other side of sandwich panel48(e.g., from first surface52), such as via charging interface78in first plate58of structural portion50. In this manner, a personal electronic device74positioned adjacent first surface52of sandwich panel48may be charged by power component82, which may be positioned adjacent second surface54of sandwich panel48. In other words, mounting system12may be configured such that personal electronic device74may be selectively electrically coupled to power component82via first plate58(e.g., via charging interface78formed in first plate58). Second plate60may include an opening84that is sized and shaped to provide access to cut-out80formed in sandwich panel48. For example, opening84may be configured to allow insertion of one or more of a wire, a cable, a power supply, and a charger therethrough, such that the same (and/or a different power component82) may be inserted into cut-out80of second plate60.

Mounting system12(e.g., structural portion50of mounting system12) may include a plurality of fasteners88, at least some of which may substantially fix first plate58with respect to second plate60. For example, one or more fasteners88may couple first plate58to first surface52of sandwich panel48. Similarly, one or more fasteners88may couple second plate60to second surface54of sandwich panel48. In some examples, one or more fasteners88may couple first plate58to second plate60. In some examples, some or all respective fasteners88may engage first plate58and second plate60. In some examples, some or all of fasteners88may extend through the entire thickness of sandwich panel48, from at least first surface52to second surface54, through core56. Fasteners88may include any suitable fasteners, such as pins, bolts, screws, nuts, rivets, and/or any other suitable fasteners.

Mounting system12(e.g., structural portion50of mounting system12) may include one or more floating nut plates90. One or more floating nut plates90may be coupled to first plate58and/or second plate60. In some examples, one or more floating nut plates90may be formed integrally with first plate58and/or second plate60. In one specific example, a mounting floating nut plate91may be coupled to first plate58for securement of structural interface70to first plate58. In some examples, a plurality of floating nut plates90may be coupled to or formed integrally with second plate60and each respective floating nut plate90may be configured to engage a respective fastener88, which may effectuate coupling second plate60to second surface54of sandwich panel48.

Mounting system12(e.g., structural portion50of mounting system12) may include one or more through-inserts92extending through core56of sandwich panel48(e.g., from first surface52to second surface54of sandwich panel48, which may form a portion of an interior monument34), each through-insert92being configured to receive a respective fastener88there-through. In some examples, one or more respective fasteners88may extend through a respective through-insert92. For example, one or more respective fasteners88may be installed through first plate58(e.g., each respective fastener88may extend through a respective through-hole94formed in first plate58), through a respective through-insert92, and into a respective floating nut plate90, thereby securing first plate58and second plate60to sandwich panel48. Examples of mounting systems12may include at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, and/or at least ten through-inserts92.

FIGS. 3 and 4schematically illustrate examples of first plates58(FIG. 3) and second plates60(FIG. 4), as coupled to first surface52and second surface54, respectively, of sandwich panel48. As shown inFIG. 3, structural interface70may be substantially centrally located on first plate58, however, other locations are also possible.FIG. 3illustrates two charging ports78, one on either side of structural interface70, however more or fewer charging ports78are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, charging ports78may be positioned adjacent one another, instead of on opposite sides of structural interface70. First plate58may include four through-holes94adjacent corners of first plate58, as shown inFIG. 3, but any arrangement of more or fewer through-holes94is possible, for receiving respective fasteners88for coupling first plate58to first surface52of sandwich panel48. First plate58is shown having a substantially rectangular shape, however any shape is possible for first plate58, including polygonal, circular, oval, and irregular shapes. Any suitable arrangement and number of through-holes94and respective fasteners88may be used to secure first plate58to first surface52of sandwich panel48.

Similarly, as shown inFIG. 4, opening84may be substantially centrally located on second plate60, however other locations are also possible.FIG. 4illustrates four floating nut plates90corresponding to respective through-holes94and fasteners88shown inFIG. 3, adjacent corners of second plate60. Generally, second plate60may include any number of floating nut plates90, in any configuration and position, such as may couple second plate60to second surface54of sandwich panel48. In some examples, each respective floating nut plate90coupled to or formed integrally with second plate60may correspond to a respective through-hole94formed in first plate58and receive a respective fastener88. Second plate60is shown having a substantially rectangular shape, however any shape is possible for second plate60, including polygonal, circular, oval, and irregular shapes.

FIG. 5illustrates a kit100that may include one or more structural portions50of a mounting system12, and/or a family of mounting systems102. For example, kit100may include first plate58, second plate60, and structural interface70. Some examples of kit100may further include mounting accessory72, fasteners88, through-inserts92, and/or floating nut plates90. Kit100may be configured to be installed in an aircraft (e.g., aircraft10, such as on an interior monument34) such that first plate58and second plate60together are configured to support mounting accessory72and a personal electronic device (e.g., personal electronic device74), kit100thereby being configured to suspend the personal electronic device from an interior monument (e.g., interior monument34) within the aircraft and position the personal electronic device for use. In some examples, kit100may be configured to be coupled to a substantially vertical surface of an interior monument within an aircraft.

In some examples, kit100may include a family of mounting systems102, which may include a plurality of first plates58, a plurality of second plates60, a plurality of structural interfaces70, a plurality of mounting accessories72, a plurality of fasteners88, a plurality of through-inserts92, and/or a plurality of floating nut plates90. Each of the plurality of structural interfaces70may be configured to receive a respective mounting accessory72from the plurality of mounting accessories. One or more of the plurality of first plates58may be configured to receive a respective structural interface70from the plurality of structural interfaces. In some examples, one or more first plates58of the plurality of first plates may include a structural interface70formed integrally therewith. Each of the plurality of second plates60may be configured to be coupled with respect to a respective first plate58, such that the respective first plate58and respective second plate60are positioned on either side of an interior monument within an aircraft. In some examples, first plate58and second plate60may be configured to be coupled to each other, with a portion of a sandwich panel (e.g., sandwich panel48) or interior monument (e.g., interior monument34) positioned therebetween.

Within family of mounting systems102, the plurality of structural interfaces70may include a plurality of different types of structural interfaces70, each different type of structural interface70differing in at least one of size, shape, and connectivity type from the other different types of structural interfaces70. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of mounting accessories72may include a plurality of different types of mounting accessories72, differing from the other different types of mounting accessories72by size, shape, and/or connectivity type. In some examples, each respective type of structural interface70of the plurality of structural interfaces may correspond to a respective type of mounting accessory72of the plurality of mounting accessories.

In some kits100and/or families of mounting systems102, one or more first plates58may include one or more charging interfaces78formed therein. In kits100and families of mounting systems102including a plurality of first plates58, the plurality of first plates may include a plurality of different types of first plates58, each different type of first plate58differing from the other different types of first plates58in at least one of size, shape, type of charging interface, and configuration to receive the structural interface.

Turning now toFIGS. 6-9, illustrative non-exclusive examples of mounting systems12are illustrated. Where appropriate, the reference numerals from the schematic illustrations ofFIGS. 1-5are used to designate corresponding parts of mounting systems12shown inFIGS. 6-9; however, the examples ofFIGS. 6-9are non-exclusive and do not limit mounting systems12to the illustrated embodiments ofFIGS. 6-9. That is, mounting systems12are not limited to the specific embodiments of the illustratedFIGS. 6-9, and may incorporate any number of the various aspects, configurations, characteristics, properties, etc. of mounting systems12that are illustrated in and discussed with reference to the schematic representations ofFIGS. 1-5and/or the embodiments ofFIGS. 6-9, as well as variations thereof, without requiring the inclusion of all such aspects, configurations, characteristics, properties, etc. For the purpose of brevity, each previously discussed component, part, portion, aspect, region, etc. or variants thereof may not be discussed, illustrated, and/or labeled again with respect toFIGS. 6-9, however, it is within the scope of the present disclosure that the previously discussed features, variants, etc. may be utilized with the illustrated mounting systems12.

FIG. 6shows one example of mounting system12, showing first plate58coupled to first surface52of an interior monument of an aircraft (e.g., sandwich panel48), such that first inner surface64of first plate58faces first surface52of sandwich panel48. Structural interface70is shown in the form of an elastomeric knob76, projecting outwardly from first outer surface62of first plate58. A plurality of fasteners88may extend through first plate58via through-holes94, thereby coupling first plate58to first surface52of sandwich panel48. Elastomeric knob76may be configured to receive a mounting accessory (e.g., mounting accessory72), which in turn may be configured to mount or receive a personal electronic device (e.g., personal electronic device74).

FIG. 7shows an example of mounting system12, with second plate60coupled to second surface54of an interior monument of an aircraft (e.g., sandwich panel48), such that second inner surface68of second plate60faces second surface54of sandwich panel48. Fasteners88may couple second plate60to second surface54. Additionally or alternatively, one or more floating nut plates90may each receive a respective fastener88, where such fasteners may extend through a first plate of the mounting system (e.g., first plate58), and through a core of sandwich panel48(e.g., core56) via a respective through-insert (e.g., through-insert92). Second plate60may include opening84formed through second plate60, which may provide access to cut-out80formed through second surface54and into at least a portion of core56of sandwich panel48. Such opening84and cut-out80may be configured to receive a power component (e.g., power component82), for use with personal electronic device74on the other side of mounting system12(e.g., adjacent first plate58).

FIG. 8shows an example of first plate58of mounting system12, with mounting accessory72coupled to structural interface70. Mounting accessory72may be selectively removable from structural interface70such that mounting accessory72may be removed and replaced with a different respective mounting accessory, as desired. Mounting accessory72may be movable with respect to structural interface70, first plate58, and first surface52of sandwich panel48, such that a user may adjust the position and/or orientation of a personal electronic device coupled to or held by mounting accessory72. For example, mounting accessory72may be configured to selectively tilt, rotate, hinge, and/or otherwise articulate so that a user may move mounting accessory72to a desired position or orientation, for suitable placement of a personal electronic device. Mounting accessory72may be configured to substantially retain its position and/or orientation with respect to first plate58, until again moved by a user. In some examples, mounting accessory72may be a commercially-available, off-the-shelf mounting accessory, with which presently disclosed mounting systems12may be adapted or configured for use. Mounting accessory72may be adaptable to receive a variety of different types or sizes of personal electronic devices. For example, mounting accessory72may include an adjustable bracket or one or more adjustable arms104that may be selectively moveable and/or extendable, so as to receive different sizes of personal electronic devices.

FIG. 9shows an example of a presently disclosed mounting system, having a representative personal electronic device74coupled thereto. Adjustable arms104of mounting accessory72are shown cradling personal electronic device74. The position and/or orientation of personal electronic device74may be selectively adjustable with respect to first surface52of sandwich panel48, via mounting accessory72and structural interface70of mounting system12. As mounted, mounting system12may provide a secure means for mounting personal electronic device74for hands-free use during a flight. For example, such mounting systems12may be installed within a crew rest area of an aircraft (e.g., crew rest24), such that crew members may use their own personal devices for entertainment during the flight, without relying on on-board entertainment systems. Mounting systems12may be configured to allow ergonomically advantageous positioning of users' personal electronic devices74and may provide a universal mounting, such that different users may subsequently use the same mounting system12with different types of personal electronic devices74. Presently disclosed mounting systems12may be configured to provide a robust solution for supporting various, unknown loads, in order to secure various personal electronic devices74during a flight. While such mounting systems12may have particular utility on aircraft, they may be employed anywhere that a personal electronic device is desired to be mounted, such as in a car, on a boat, or within a building or other structure.

FIG. 10schematically provides a flowchart that represents illustrative, non-exclusive examples of methods200according to the present disclosure. InFIG. 10, some steps are illustrated in dashed boxes indicating that such steps may be optional or may correspond to an optional version of a method according to the present disclosure. That said, not all methods according to the present disclosure are required to include the steps illustrated in solid boxes. The methods and steps illustrated inFIG. 10are not limiting and other methods and steps are within the scope of the present disclosure, including methods having greater than or fewer than the number of steps illustrated, as understood from the discussions herein.

Methods200may include providing one or more structural portions of one or more mounting systems (e.g., structural portion50of mounting system12and/or family of mounting systems102) and/or providing a kit (e.g., kit100) at202. The kit or structural portion may be installed at204, such as into a personal space of an aircraft (e.g., personal space14of aircraft10). For example, a first plate of the kit or structural portion (e.g., first plate58) may be coupled to a first surface (e.g., first surface52of sandwich panel48or interior monument34) at206, and a second plate of the kit or mounting system (e.g., second plate60) may be coupled to a second surface (e.g., second surface54of sandwich panel48or interior monument34) at208. In some methods200, installing the structural portion or kit at204may include installing a plurality of structural portions or a plurality of first plates and second plates. For example, one or more structural portions may be installed in a crew rest area of the aircraft, one or more structural portions may be installed in a galley area of the aircraft, and/or one or more structural portions may be installed in a cockpit of the aircraft. In some methods200, installing the structural portion or kit at204may include inserting respective fasteners through the first plate, through a respective through-insert, and into a floating nut plate of the second plate, to secure the first plate and the second plate with respect to each other, on either side of a wall or other interior monument.

Methods200may include mounting a personal electronic device (e.g., personal electronic device74, which may be abbreviated as “P.E.D.”) at210. For example, mounting the P.E.D. at210may include coupling the P.E.D. to a mounting accessory (e.g., mounting accessory72) of the mounting system (e.g., structural portion50of mounting system12). Methods200may further include using the P.E.D. at212while it is mounted in the mounting system. For example, using the P.E.D. at212may include using the P.E.D. for entertainment (e.g., watching a video, listening to music, playing a game, and/or browsing the internet), such as by a crew member during a flight. Additionally or alternatively, using the P.E.D. at212may include using the P.E.D. to perform a service function, such as taking an order from a passenger at214, requesting assistance from a crew member and/or receiving such a request for assistance at216, performing an in-flight purchase at218, entering data to be stored on the P.E.D. at220, and/or receiving and/or providing information at222. Receiving and/or providing information at222may include providing information to a crew member and/or providing information to a passenger, using the P.E.D.

In some methods, the mounting accessory and/or P.E.D. may be removed from the mounting system and replaced with a different mounting accessory and/or P.E.D. For example, methods200may include removing the P.E.D. at224, after which the user may simply take the P.E.D. away from the mounting system, and/or that user or a different user may mount a P.E.D. at210, such as a different P.E.D. Between removing the P.E.D. at224and mounting a different P.E.D. at210, some methods200may include changing the mounting accessory at226. For example, changing the mounting accessory at226may include removing the current mounting accessory from the structural portion of the mounting system, and coupling a different mounting accessory to the structural portion of the mounting system.

As used herein, the terms “selective” and “selectively,” when modifying an action, movement, configuration, or other activity of one or more components or characteristics of an apparatus and/or system, mean that the specific action, movement, configuration, or other activity is a direct or indirect result of user manipulation of an aspect of, or one or more components of, the apparatus and/or system.

A1. A mounting system, comprising:a sandwich panel having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a core extending between the first surface and the second surface; anda structural portion coupled to the sandwich panel, the structural portion comprising:a first plate having a first outer surface and a first inner surface opposite the first outer surface, the first plate being coupled to the first surface of the sandwich panel such that the first inner surface faces the first surface of the sandwich panel;a second plate having a second outer surface and a second inner surface opposite the second outer surface, the second plate being coupled to the second surface of the sandwich panel such that the second inner surface faces the second surface of the sandwich panel, wherein the second plate is coupled with respect to the first plate such that a portion of the sandwich panel is positioned therebetween; anda structural interface configured to receive a mounting accessory for a personal electronic device such that the mounting accessory is positioned adjacent the first plate.

A1.1. The mounting system of paragraph A1, wherein the structural interface is configured to receive the mounting accessory such that the mounting accessory is positioned adjacent the first outer surface of the first plate.

A1.2. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A1.1, wherein the structural interface is formed integrally with the first plate.

A1.2.1. The mounting system of paragraph A1.2, wherein the first outer surface of the first plate is the structural interface.

A1.3. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-1.2.1, wherein the structural interface is coupled to the first plate.

A1.4. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-1.3, wherein the structural interface is coupled to the first outer surface of the first plate.

A1.5 The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A1.4, wherein the structural portion further comprises a plurality of floating nut plates coupled to or formed integrally with the second plate.

A1.6. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A1.5, wherein the structural portion further comprises:a plurality of fasteners substantially fixing the first plate with respect to the second plate.

A1.7. The mounting system of paragraph A1.6, wherein the plurality of fasteners couples the first plate to the second plate.

A1.8. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1.6-A1.7, further comprising a plurality of through-inserts extending through the core of the sandwich panel, wherein each respective fastener of the plurality of fasteners extends through a respective through-insert of the plurality of through-inserts.

A1.9. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1.6-A1.8, wherein each respective fastener of the plurality of fasteners engages the first plate and the second plate.

A1.10. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1.6-A1.9, wherein each respective fastener of the plurality of fasteners engages a respective floating nut plate of a/the plurality of floating nut plates.

A1.11. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1.6-A1.10, wherein at least a first respective fastener of the plurality of fasteners couples the first plate to the first surface.

A1.12. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1.6-A1.11, wherein at least a second respective fastener of the plurality of fasteners engages a respective floating nut plate of a/the plurality of floating nut plates, thereby coupling the second plate to the second surface.

A2. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A1.12, wherein the structural interface is configured to receive a plurality of different types of mounting accessories for a plurality of different personal electronic devices.

A3. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A2, wherein the structural interface projects from the first outer surface of the first plate of the structural portion.

A4. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A2, wherein the structural interface comprises a spherical elastomeric knob.

A5. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A2, wherein the structural interface comprises a base, a ball, a suction cup, a clamp, a screw, a clip, a base plate, a track, a groove, and/or a recess.

A5.1. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A5, wherein the structural interface is coupled to the first outer surface of the first plate via a mounting floating nut plate coupled to the first plate.

A5.2. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A5.1, wherein the structural interface is coupled to the first outer surface of the first plate via at least one fastener, an adhesive, a suction cup, a magnet, a drill plate, a base plate, a bolt, a track, and/or a snap fit.

A6. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A5.2, further comprising the mounting accessory.

A7. The mounting system of paragraph A6, wherein the mounting accessory comprises an adjustable mounting arm.

A8. The mounting system of paragraph A6, wherein the mounting accessory comprises an adjustable mounting bracket.

A9. The mounting system of paragraph A6, wherein the mounting accessory comprises a mounting arm, a clamp, a holder, a cradle, a grip, a socket, a spring, and/or a tripod. A9.1. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A9, wherein the mounting accessory is configured to maintain the personal electronic device in a position suitable for use and/or viewing by a passenger and/or crew member.

A9.2. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A9.1, wherein the mounting accessory comprises a fitted mounting accessory.

A9.3. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A9.2, wherein the mounting accessory comprises an adjustable mounting accessory.

A9.4. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A9.3, wherein the mounting accessory is movably coupled to the structural interface.

A9.5. The mounting system of paragraph A9.4, wherein the mounting accessory is coupled to the structural interface via one or more of a hinge, a ball-and-socket joint, a spring, a cord, a retractable cord, a screw, a pivot, a bearing, and a track.

A10. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A9.5, further comprising the personal electronic device, the personal electronic device being coupled to the structural interface via the mounting accessory.

A11. The mounting system of paragraph A10, wherein the personal electronic device comprises one or more of a mobile telephone, a tablet, a laptop, a camera, an e-reader, a handheld computer game system, a portable media player, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant, a music player, a GPS device, and an MP3 player.

A12. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A11, wherein the first plate is metallic.

A13. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A12, wherein the first plate is polymeric.

A14. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A13, wherein the second plate is metallic.

A15. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A14, wherein the second plate is polymeric.

A16. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A15, wherein the first outer surface of the first plate comprises a substantially smooth surface.

A17. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A16, wherein the first outer surface of the first plate is configured to receive and retain a suction cup.

A18. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A17, wherein the structural portion further comprises a charging interface, the charging interface being configured to charge the personal electronic device.

A19. The mounting system of paragraph A18, wherein the charging interface is positioned adjacent the structural interface.

A20. The mounting system of paragraph A18 or A19, wherein the charging interface is positioned on the first outer surface of the first plate.

A21. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A18-A20, wherein the charging interface comprises one or more of a USB port, a micro-USB port, a three-prong outlet, a two-prong outlet, a Lightning port, a wireless charging interface, a headphone jack, a dock connector port, and a portable digital media interface (PDMI) port.

A22. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A21, wherein the sandwich panel comprises a honeycomb core sandwich panel.

A23. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A22, wherein the first surface of the sandwich panel is an interior wall of a personal space of an aircraft.

A23.1. The mounting system of paragraph A23, wherein the personal space comprises one or more of a crew rest, a lavatory, a private suite, a galley area, a cockpit, and an area apart from a main cabin of the aircraft.

A24. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A23.1, wherein the second surface of the sandwich panel is an exterior wall of a/the personal space of an/the aircraft.

A24.1. The mounting system of paragraph A24, wherein the personal space comprises one or more of a/the crew rest, a/the lavatory, a/the private suite, a/the galley area, a/the cockpit, and an/the area apart from a main cabin of the aircraft.

A25. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A24.1, wherein the sandwich panel comprises a cut-out extending through at least a portion of the core, the cut-out being configured to receive a power component, the power component comprising one or more of a wire, a cable, a power supply, a current source, a voltage source, and a charger.

A26. The mounting system of paragraph A25, wherein the cut-out is formed from the second surface of the sandwich panel.

A27. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A26, wherein the mounting system is configured such that the personal electronic device may be selectively electrically coupled to a/the power component via the first plate.

A28. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A27, wherein the mounting system is configured such that the personal electronic device may be selectively electrically coupled to a/the power component via a/the charging interface.

A29. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A28, wherein the sandwich panel is configured to form a portion of one or more of an aircraft cabin, a passenger service unit, a sidewall, a passenger seat, an aircraft closet, an aircraft galley, a rolling galley cart, a lavatory, a cockpit, and a crew rest.

A30. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A29, wherein the second plate of the structural portion is a doubler bracket.

A31. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A30, wherein the second plate comprises an opening configured to allow access to a/the cut-out formed in the core of the sandwich panel.

A32. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A31, wherein each of a/the plurality of floating nut plates is formed integrally with the second plate.

A33. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A32, wherein each of a/the plurality of fasteners is installed through the first plate, through a respective through-insert of the plurality of through-inserts, and into a respective floating nut plate of a/the plurality of floating nut plates.

A33.1. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A33, wherein each of the plurality of fasteners extends through an entire thickness of the sandwich panel, from at least the first surface to the second surface and through the core.

A34. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A33.1, wherein the plurality of through-inserts comprises at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, and/or at least ten through-inserts.

A35. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A34, wherein the mounting system is configured to suspend the personal electronic device from the sandwich panel, thereby positioning the personal electronic device for use and securing it to the sandwich panel via the structural portion and the mounting accessory coupled thereto.

A36. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A35, wherein the sandwich panel is a substantially vertical structure.

A37. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A36, wherein the first plate is spaced apart a distance from the second plate when the structural portion is coupled to the sandwich panel, wherein the distance is measured between the first inner surface of the first plate and the second inner surface of the second plate, substantially perpendicularly to the first inner surface and the second inner surface.

A38. The mounting system of paragraph A37, wherein the distance is at least 0.10 inches (in), at least 0.25 in, at least 0.5 in, at least 0.75 in, at least 1 in, at least 1.5 in, at least 2 in, and/or greater than 2 in.

A39. The mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A38, wherein the sandwich panel comprises a wall of a crew rest.

A40. The mounting system of paragraph A39, wherein the first surface of the sandwich panel comprises an interior wall surface of the wall of the crew rest and wherein the second surface of the sandwich panel comprises an exterior wall surface of the wall of the crew rest.

B1. A family of mounting systems, comprising:a plurality of structural interfaces, each structural interface being configured to receive a respective mounting accessory for a personal electronic device;a plurality of first plates, each first plate being configured to receive a respective structural interface from the plurality of structural interfaces; anda plurality of second plates, each second plate being configured to be coupled with respect to a respective first plate of the plurality of first plates, such that the respective first plate and the respective second plate are positioned on either side of an interior monument within an aircraft;wherein the plurality of structural interfaces comprises a plurality of different types of structural interfaces, each different type of structural interface differing in at least one of size, shape, and connectivity type from the other different types of structural interfaces.

B2. The family of mounting systems of paragraph B1, further comprising a plurality of different types of mounting accessories.

B3. The family of mounting systems of paragraph B2, wherein the plurality of different types structural interfaces comprises a respective type of structural interface corresponding to each respective type of mounting accessory of the plurality of different types of mounting accessories.

B4. The family of mounting systems of any of paragraphs B1-B3, wherein each of the plurality of first plates comprises at least one charging interface, the at least one charging interface being configured to charge the personal electronic device.

B4.1. The family of mounting systems of paragraph B4, wherein the plurality of first plates comprises a plurality of different types of first plates, each different type of first plate differing from the other different types of first plates in at least one of size, shape, charging interface, and configuration to receive the structural interface.

B5. The family of mounting systems of paragraph B4 or B4.1, wherein each respective charging interface is positioned adjacent a respective structural interface.

B6. The family of mounting systems of any of paragraphs B4-B5, wherein the charging interface comprises one or more of a USB port, a micro-USB port, a three-prong outlet, a two-prong outlet, a Lightning port, a wireless charging interface, a headphone jack, a dock connector port, and a portable digital media interface (PDMI) port.

B7. The family of mounting systems of any of paragraphs B4-B6, wherein at least some of the first plates of the plurality of first plates comprise a first charging interface and a second charging interface, the first charging interface being a different type of charging interface than the second charging interface.

C1. A kit for providing a mounting provision for a personal electronic device in an aircraft, the kit comprising:a first plate having a first outer surface and a first inner surface opposite the first outer surface, the first plate being configured to be coupled to a first surface of an interior monument within the aircraft such that the first inner surface faces the first surface of the interior monument, the first plate comprising a plurality of through-holes formed therethrough;a second plate having a second outer surface and a second inner surface opposite the second outer surface, the second plate being configured to be coupled to a second surface of the interior monument such that the second inner surface faces the second surface of the interior monument, wherein the second surface of the interior monument is opposite the first surface, and wherein the second plate is configured to be coupled to the first plate such that a portion of the interior monument is positioned therebetween; anda structural interface configured to receive a mounting accessory for a personal electronic device such that the mounting accessory is positioned adjacent the first plate,wherein the kit is configured to be installed in the aircraft such that the first plate and the second plate together are configured to support the mounting accessory and the personal electronic device, the kit thereby being configured to suspend the personal electronic device from the interior monument within the aircraft and position the personal electronic device for use.

C1.1 The kit of paragraph C1, further comprising:a plurality of through-inserts, each through-insert being configured to receive a respective fastener therethrough and extend from the first surface of the interior monument to the second surface of the interior monument; anda plurality of floating nut plates, each floating nut plate being configured to engage a respective fastener extending through a respective through-insert of the plurality of through-inserts.

C2. The kit of paragraph C1, further comprising the mounting accessory, the mounting accessory being configured to be coupled to the structural interface, the mounting accessory being configured to maintain the personal electronic device in a position relative to the interior monument, wherein the position is suitable for use and/or viewing by a passenger and/or crew member adjacent the interior monument.

C3. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C2, further comprising a plurality of fasteners, each fastener being configured to be installed through the first plate, through a respective one of the plurality of through-inserts, and into a respective one of a/the plurality of floating nut plates, thereby securing the first plate and the second plate to the interior monument.

C4. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C3, wherein at least some of a/the plurality of floating nut plates are formed integrally with the second plate.

C5. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C4, wherein the second plate comprises an opening formed therethrough, the opening being configured to allow insertion of one or more of a wire, a cable, a power supply, and a charger therethrough.

C6. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C5, wherein the structural interface comprises one or more of an elastomeric spherical knob, a base, a ball, a suction cup, a clamp, a screw, a clip, a base plate, a track, a groove, and a recess.

C7. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C6, wherein the structural interface is configured to project outwardly from the first outer surface of the first plate when the structural interface is coupled to the first plate.

C8. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C7, wherein the kit is configured to be installed on the interior monument.

C9. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C8, wherein the interior monument comprises a substantially vertical surface to which the kit is configured to be coupled to.

C10. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C9, wherein the interior monument comprises one or more of a crew rest wall, a galley, an aircraft cabin, a passenger service unit, a sidewall, a passenger seat, an aircraft closet, a rolling galley cart, a lavatory, and a cockpit of the aircraft.

C11. The kit of any of paragraphs C1-C10, wherein the interior monument comprises a sandwich panel, wherein a core extends between the first surface and the second surface of the interior monument, and wherein each of the plurality of through-inserts is configured to be positioned in the core of the sandwich panel when the kit is installed in the aircraft.

D1. An aircraft comprising one or more of the mounting systems of any of paragraphs A1-A40 installed therein.

D2. The aircraft of paragraph D1, wherein the one or more mounting systems are provided in or on one or more of a crew rest, a galley, an aircraft cabin, a passenger service unit, a sidewall, a passenger seat, an aircraft closet, a rolling galley cart, a lavatory, and a cockpit of the aircraft.

E1. An aircraft comprising one or more of the kits of any of paragraphs C1-C11 installed therein.

E2. The aircraft of paragraph E1, wherein the one or more kits are installed in or on one or more of a crew rest, a galley, an aircraft cabin, a passenger service unit, a sidewall, a passenger seat, an aircraft closet, a rolling galley cart, a lavatory, and a cockpit of the aircraft.

F1. A method, comprising:providing one or more of: the structural portion of the mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A40 and the kit of any of paragraphs C1-C11 in an aircraft;coupling the first plate to the first surface; andcoupling the second plate to the second surface.

F1.1 The method of paragraph F1, further comprising mounting a personal electronic device in the structural portion of the mounting system and/or the kit.

F2. The method of paragraph F1.1, further comprising using the personal electronic device while it is mounted in the structural portion of the mounting system.

F3. The method of paragraph F2, wherein the using the personal electronic device comprises one or more of taking a passenger order, performing an in-flight purchase, requesting assistance from a crew member, receiving a request for assistance from a passenger, providing information to a passenger, providing information to a crew member, and entering data to be stored on the personal electronic device.

F4. The method of any of paragraphs F1.1-F3, further comprising removing the personal electronic device from the structural portion of the mounting system.

F5. The method of any of paragraphs F1-F4, further comprising removing the mounting accessory from the structural portion of the mounting system and changing the mounting accessory by coupling a different mounting accessory to the structural portion of the mounting system.

G1. Use of the mounting system of any of paragraphs A1-A40 to mount a personal electronic device to a sandwich panel.

H1. Use of the kit of any of paragraphs C1-C11 to outfit an aircraft with a mounting system for a personal electronic device.

The various disclosed elements of apparatuses and systems, and steps of methods disclosed herein are not required to all apparatuses, systems, and methods according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements and steps disclosed herein. Moreover, one or more of the various elements and steps disclosed herein may define independent inventive subject matter that is separate and apart from the whole of a disclosed apparatus, system, or method. Accordingly, such inventive subject matter is not required to be associated with the specific apparatuses, systems, and methods that are expressly disclosed herein, and such inventive subject matter may find utility in apparatuses, systems, and/or methods that are not expressly disclosed herein.