Patent Publication Number: US-2020298976-A1

Title: Aircraft lounge assembly

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/939,163, filed Mar. 28, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/677,865, filed Apr. 2, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,938,015, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/028,424, filed Sep. 16, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,132,917, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/439,787, filed Apr. 4, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,534,604, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/516,586, filed Apr. 4, 2011, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/616,362, filed Mar. 27, 2012, which are all herein incorporated by reference in their entireties. U.S. application Ser. No. 14/677,865 also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/975,634, filed Apr. 4, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/024,817, filed Jul. 15, 2014, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to passenger seating and storage in the interior of passenger aircraft. In particular, the invention relates to a shared entrance seating arrangement. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Commercial aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 are typically constructed from modular components, the size, weight and construction of which are dictated by many considerations, including fuselage dimensions, aesthetic and safety considerations. Many of these requirements are imposed by law or regulation. Aircraft components, such as overhead stowage compartments, seats, lavatories, galleys, lighting systems, etc. are all required to function within strictly confined spaces. 
     Manufacturers of aircraft are constantly refining interior aircraft designs to achieve more comfort and utility for passengers and crew within carrier-imposed restraints on cost, weight, maintenance down-time, and safety. Commercial passenger aircraft generally include overhead luggage storage bins mounted from the ceiling of the aircraft over the passenger seats. These bins are designed to accommodate the size, shape, and weight of passenger carry-on luggage. 
     SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aircraft lounge assembly that includes an enclosure having a rear wall, first and second side walls and a forward wall that cooperate to define a seating area. The lounge assembly also includes first and second seats positioned in the seating area, and a first dividing wall positioned between the first and second seats. The first dividing wall divides the seating area into a first seat section and a second seat section. The front wall includes a shared entrance space defined therein. A first seat path is defined between the shared entrance space and the first seat section and a second seat path is defined between the shared entrance space and the second seat section. In a preferred embodiment, the first dividing wall includes a privacy divider that is movable up and down between first and second positions. Preferably, the lounge assembly includes an overhead storage bin assembly that includes at least a first post configured to be secured to a floor of the aircraft and is positioned generally between the first and second seats, and an overhead bin housing supported by the first post. In a preferred embodiment, the overhead bin housing includes at least first and second overhead storage bins that are positioned generally above the first and second seats, respectively. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes a tower positioned at an end of the first dividing wall that includes first and second pivotable monitors connected thereto. The first monitor is pivotable between a closed position and an open position where it is positioned in the first seat section, and the second monitor is pivotable between a closed position and an open position where it is positioned in the second seat section. Preferably, the lounge assembly includes a first support positioned in the first seat section adjacent the front wall and pivotable between a first position and a second position, and a second support positioned in the first seat section adjacent the front wall and pivotable between a first position and a second position. Preferably, the front wall includes a first ledge on which the first support is positioned when it is in the second position, and a second ledge on which the second support is positioned when it is in the second position. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes third and fourth seats positioned in the seating area, and a second dividing wall positioned between the second and third seats and a third dividing wall positioned between the third and fourth seats. The third dividing wall divides the seating area into a third seat section and a fourth seat section, and the front wall includes a second shared entrance space defined therein. A third seat path is defined between the second shared entrance space and the third seat section and a fourth seat path is defined between the second shared entrance space and the fourth seat section. Preferably, the first dividing wall includes a first privacy divider that is movable up and down between first and second positions, the second dividing wall includes a second privacy divider that is movable up and down between first and second positions, and the third dividing wall includes a third privacy divider that is movable up and down between first and second positions. In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes an overhead storage bin assembly that includes at least first and second posts each configured to be secured to a floor of the aircraft. The first post is positioned generally between the first and second seats and the second post is positioned generally between the third and fourth seats. An overhead bin housing is supported by the first and second posts. Preferably, the overhead bin housing includes at least first, second, third and fourth overhead storage bins that are positioned generally above the first, second, third and fourth seats, respectively. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the second dividing wall extends between the rear wall and the front wall, and the first and third dividing walls do not extend to the front wall. 
     Generally, the invention is laterally positioned personal overhead storage space (such that it opens toward the front or rear of the aircraft) that is ultimately supported by the floor of an aircraft. Accordingly, in a broadest sense, an embodiment can include a single post, secured to the floor of the aircraft that positions an overhead storage bin above a passenger seat. In another embodiment, the overhead storage bin may be positioned over the passenger seat by the seat shell. The structure that supports the overhead bin may be one or posts, one or more seat shells, walls, monuments, etc. 
     One of the purposes of the invention is to maximize the number of seats on an aircraft, particularly in a business or first class compartment (however, the invention can also be utilized in economy class), and provide for convenient and easily accessible storage for passengers. The configuration of seats, seat shell design, overhead bin design and configuration each contribute to achieving this purpose while simultaneously providing for passenger convenience, comfort and safety. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the overhead storage bins make more efficient use of space in the aircraft interior (preferably eliminating closets that require dedicated floor space). In a preferred embodiment, the overhead storage bins are accessible to each passenger without having to invade another passenger&#39;s space. As shown in the drawings, the overhead storage bins are placed over the passenger to create a more comfortable, enclosed space. It will be appreciated that the configuration of bin numbers, location and size are flexible and not a limitation on the present invention. For the designers of aircraft, the present invention allows the bin to move with the seat, thereby freeing up the ability to arrange the seats as desired; and the passenger service unit can be placed generally above the passenger and/or in the column that supports the overhead bin as more fully described below. 
     Overhead storage bin assemblies are well known in the art. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 4,637,642 issued on Jan. 20, 1987, U.S. Pat. No. 5,567,028 issued on Oct. 22, 1996, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0253837, published on Oct. 20, 2011, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Seat shells are also known in the art. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 6,170,786 issued on Jan. 9, 2001, U.S. Pat. No. 7,419,214 issued on Sep. 2, 2008, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0146004, published on Jun. 11, 2009, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
     In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aircraft that includes at least a fuselage having an inner side wall and a floor, at least a first seat having an upper portion, at least a first laterally extending overhead storage bin positioned generally above the upper portion of the first seat, and support structure secured to the floor and supporting the first overhead storage bin. The first seat is secured to the floor and the first overhead storage bin has an open and a closed configuration (see  FIG. 2 ). The first overhead storage bin opens toward the front or the rear of the aircraft. In a preferred embodiment, the aircraft also includes a second seat with an upper portion and that is secured to the floor and is adjacent the first seat. The aircraft also includes a second laterally extending overhead storage bin positioned generally above the upper portion of the second seat and adjacent the first overhead storage bin, and support structure secured to the floor and supporting the second overhead storage bin. The second overhead storage bin has an open and a closed configuration and it opens toward the front or the rear of the aircraft. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second overhead storage bins are not secured to the inner side wall of the aircraft. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lounge assembly configured to be positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The lounge assembly includes a first seat shell configured to at least partially surround a passenger seat, and an overhead storage bin assembly. The overhead storage bin assembly includes first and second posts configured to be secured to a floor of the aircraft, and an overhead bin housing supported by the first and second posts. The overhead bin housing includes at least a first overhead storage bin that is positioned generally above the first seat shell. In a preferred embodiment, the overhead bin housing includes a second overhead storage bin positioned on one side of the first overhead storage bin and a third overhead storage bin positioned on the opposite side of the first overhead storage bin. When the lounge assembly is positioned in the interior of an aircraft, the first, second and third storage bins face forward. Preferably, the lounge assembly includes a second seat shell positioned on one side of the first seat shell and a third seat shell positioned on the opposite side of the seat shell bin. The second overhead storage bin is positioned generally above the second seat shell and the third overhead storage bin is positioned generally above the third seat shell. 
     In an embodiment, the overhead bin housing includes fourth, fifth and sixth overhead storage bin assemblies, such that when the lounge assembly is positioned in the interior of an aircraft, the fourth, fifth and sixth storage bins face aft. And, the lounge assembly includes fourth, fifth and sixth seat shells. The fourth overhead storage bin is positioned generally above the fourth seat shell, the fifth overhead storage bin is positioned generally above the fifth seat shell, and the sixth overhead storage bin is positioned generally above the sixth seat shell. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes first and second passenger service units. The first passenger service unit is positioned between the first and second overhead storage bins and the second passenger service unit is positioned between the first and third overhead storage bins. Preferably, the passenger service units include at least one gasper, and a passenger reading light is mounted on at least one of the first and second posts. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an overhead storage bin assembly configured to be positioned in the interior of an aircraft that includes first and second posts configured to be secured to a floor of the aircraft, and an overhead bin housing supported by the first and second posts. The overhead bin housing includes at least a first overhead storage bin. When the overhead storage bin assembly is positioned in the interior of an aircraft, the first overhead storage bin is positioned generally above a passenger seat. 
     In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of positioning overhead storage bins within an aircraft interior. The method includes providing a first group of seats and a first group of overhead storage bins, positioning the first group of seats within the aircraft interior such that each of the first group of seats face forwardly, and positioning the first group of overhead storage bins within the aircraft such that each of the first group of overhead storage bins is positioned above one of the first group of seats. The first group of overhead storage bins each face forwardly. In a preferred embodiment, the aircraft interior has a floor and an interior side wall, the first group of seats are each secured to the floor, and the first group of overhead storage bins are supported above the first group of seats by support structure and are not secured to the interior side wall. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes providing a second group of seats and a second group of overhead storage bins, positioning the second group of seats within the aircraft interior such that each of the second group of seats face aft, and positioning the second group of overhead storage bins within the aircraft such that each of the second group of overhead storage bins is positioned above one of the second group of seats. The second group of overhead storage bins each face aft. Preferably, the aircraft interior has a floor and an interior side wall, the first group of seats and the second group of seats are each secured to the floor, the first group of overhead storage bins are supported above the first group of seats by support structure and are not secured to the interior side wall and the second group of overhead storage bins are supported above the second group of seats by support structure and are not secured to the interior side wall. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft first class cabin showing a series of lounge assemblies in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a overhead bin assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a portion of the overhead bin assembly of  FIG. 2 , with one of the overhead storage bins removed; 
         FIG. 4  is a front elevational view of one of the lounge assemblies of  FIG. 1  with a portion of the seat shells shown in cross section; 
         FIG. 5  is an end elevational cross section of a portion of the overhead bin assembly of  FIG. 2  taken along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a top plan cross section of a portion of the overhead bin assembly of  FIG. 2  taken along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a bottom elevational view of the overhead bin assembly of  FIG. 2 , with the posts in cross-section; 
         FIG. 8  is a top plan view of a portion of the interior of an aircraft showing a plurality of lounge assemblies in schematic; 
         FIG. 9  is a top plan view of a portion of the interior of an aircraft taken along the box labeled  9  in  FIG. 8 ; and 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of one of the lounge assemblies of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a lounge assembly in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a top plan view of aft and forward facing lounge assemblies of  FIG. 11  with the overhead storage bins omitted; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of two adjacent seats in the lounge assembly of  FIG. 11  with the divider lowered to show the companion travel experience; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a portion of a seating area in the lounge assembly of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of another portion of a seating area in the lounge assembly of  FIG. 11 ; and 
         FIG. 16  is a top plan view of two lounge assemblies with the overhead storage bins omitted in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are references to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of the embodiments. 
     Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the-disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments. 
     The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotation marks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. 
     It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than one way. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein. No special significance is to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. 
     Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control. 
     It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” “aft,” “forward,” “rear,” “end” and “below” used herein are merely for ease of description and refer to the orientation of the components as shown in the figures. It should be understood that any orientation of the components described herein is within the scope of the present invention. 
     Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating the present invention and not for purposes of limiting the same,  FIGS. 1-10  show a first embodiment of a lounge assembly  10  that includes a floor mounted overhead bin assembly  12  and a plurality of seat shells  24 .  FIG. 1  shows a series of lounge assemblies  10  in the first class cabin of an aircraft. The two forward lounge assemblies  10  include a forward facing suite  14  and an aft facing suite  16 , and the two aft lounge assemblies  10   a  include only a forward facing suite  14 . For simplicity, most of the description herein focuses on the lounge assembly  10  with both forward and aft facing suites  14  and  16 , which includes six seats  18  and six overhead storage bins  20 . However, it will be understood that the lounge assembly  10   a  with only a forward facing suite  14  is essentially half of lounge assembly  10  and includes three seats  18  and three overhead storage bins  20 , and typically backs up to a wall. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention. In another embodiment, the aircraft may include a plurality of lounge assemblies  10   a  with only a forward facing suite  14 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the forward facing suite  14  and the aft facing suite  16  each include three seats  18 , for a total of six seats  18  and six overhead storage bins  20 , thereby providing each passenger with their own overhead storage bin  20 . In particular, the invention is contemplated for use with seating and overhead storage bins on passenger aircraft. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention and the lounge assembly  10  can be used in other vehicles, such as a bus, automobile, train or the like. 
     As is shown in  FIG. 2 , the overhead storage bin assembly  12  includes posts  22  that support the overhead storage bins  20  and associated components (described below). In a preferred embodiment, the posts  22  include attachment feet  23  that are secured to the existing seat track in an aircraft. However, this is not a limitation and the posts  22 , and or attachment feet  23  can be mounted to the aircraft at a point other than the seat track. 
     In a preferred embodiment, each seat  18  is disposed within a seat shell  24 . As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 9 , the forward facing suite  14  and the aft facing suite  16  each include three seat shells  24  for at least partially surrounding each seat  18 . In a preferred embodiment, the posts  22  are secured to the seat shells  24  using mechanical fasteners, such as screws, bolts or the like. In another embodiment, the posts  22  can be secured to the seat shells  24  using rivets, adhesive or any other fastening means known in the art. In another embodiment, the seat shells  24  are not secured to the posts  22 . In another embodiment, the posts  22  can be omitted and the seat shells  24  can include high enough walls that the overhead storage bins  20  are secured to and supported by the seat shell(s)  24  (which are secured to the floor). It will be understood that forward facing means that within an aircraft, the overhead storage bins  20  open toward the front of the aircraft and passengers seated in the seats  18  within a seat shell  24  face the front of the aircraft. It will be understood that aft facing means that within an aircraft, the overhead storage bins  20  open toward the rear of the aircraft and passengers seated in the seats  18  within a seat shell  24  face the rear of the aircraft. In other words, the overhead storage bins  20  are positioned laterally across the fuselage of the aircraft, as is shown in  FIG. 1 . 
       FIGS. 8 and 9  show plan views of the interior layout of an aircraft utilizing a plurality of lounge assemblies  10  of the present invention. As shown, the arrangement of the lounge assemblies  10  and  10   a  and the separation between them provides a single longitudinal main aisle  26  and perpendicular cross aisles  28 . The cross aisles  28  provide access for passengers seated in either the aft facing suite  16  or forward facing suite  14  adjacent to the cross aisle  28 . Therefore, when passengers enter the cabin, they step into their assigned seat shell before placing their luggage  30  in their personal overhead storage bin  20 , instead of holding up the other boarding passengers. For example, as shown in  FIG. 7 , when the passenger seated in seat  1 F enters, in order to get to his overhead storage bin  20 , he must step into his seat shell  24 . This prevents him from standing in the main aisle  26  and holding up the passengers boarding behind him. 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a single lounge assembly  10  and illustrates a number of the different features thereof. For descriptive purposes, the five seats that are shown are labeled  1 D,  1 E,  1 F,  2 D and  2 E. In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly  10  includes privacy dividers  32  that raise and lower to provide privacy for adjacent passengers. As will be appreciated, each row of three seats preferably includes two privacy dividers  32 . As is shown in  FIG. 10 , the privacy divider  32  between seats  1 D and  1 E is up and the privacy divider  32  between seats  1 E and  1 F is down. In a preferred embodiment, the privacy dividers  32  are housed in a slot  34  and can be raised and lowered by hand. In another embodiment, the privacy dividers  32  can be automated. In another embodiment, each seat can include a privacy divider  32 . I.e., the seat adjacent the main aisle  26  can also include a privacy divider  32 . 
     It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that any type of seat is within the present invention. Preferably the seats include an upper portion for supporting the passenger&#39;s back and a seat portion. In a preferred embodiment, the seats  18  are fully reclinable seats that allow a passenger to lay prone for sleeping, as shown in seat  1 D. Preferably, the seat shell  24  includes a support  36  at the end opposite the seat  18 . The support  36  can be used for supporting the sleeping passengers feet in seat  1 D or can be used to support a sitting passenger, as shown in seat  2 D. With this feature, two passengers can sit within the same seat shell  24  on both the seat  18  and the support  36 . In a preferred embodiment, the support  36  is foldable or pivotable such that it can be raised and lowered or at least a part of it can be raised or lowered or otherwise stowed so that it is out of the way when not in use. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lounge assembly  10  can also include tray tables  38 , docks  40  for electronic devices, such as portable music players, cell phones, tablets, etc. and video/television monitors  42  that are pivotable (see seat  2 D vs. seat  2 E). In a preferred embodiment, the tray table  38  can be swiveled or pivoted forwardly (within a horizontal plane) so that the passenger can exit the seat shell  24  when the tray table  38  is deployed and out of its stowage compartment in the side wall  48 . However, none of these features are a limitation on the present invention and they can be omitted. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that other features and amenities can be included, and such features and amenities are within the scope of the present invention. 
     In a preferred embodiment, as is best shown in  FIGS. 1 and 10 , the seat shells  24  each include a front wall  44 , rear wall  46 , two side walls  48  and an entrance  50 . It should be understood that the front and rear walls are described as front and rear herein with respect to the passenger seated therein. It will be appreciated that the side walls  48  between the seats can be separate pieces that are secured together or can be a unitary piece. As will appreciated by those of skill in the art, the seat shells  24  can include other known features and components, such as armrests, seat belts, audio/video controls, storage compartments, pockets and the like. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 2-6 , the overhead bin assembly  12  will now be described. As discussed above, lounge assembly  10  includes six seats  18  and six overhead storage bins  20  and lounge assembly  10   a  includes three seats  18  and three overhead storage bins  20 . Likewise, overhead bin assembly  12  includes six overhead storage bins and overhead bin assembly  12   a  includes three overhead storage bins. For simplicity, the description herein focuses on overhead bin assembly  12 . However, it will be understood that overhead bin assembly  12   a  is essentially half of overhead bin assembly  12 . 
     As is shown in  FIG. 2 , overhead bin assembly  12  includes two posts  22  that support the overhead bins  20  and the necessary components therefore. In a preferred embodiment, the posts  22  include struts  51  to provide further columnar support and to help prevent the overhead bin assembly  12  from tipping over. Generally, as is best shown in  FIG. 6 , overhead bin assembly  12  includes six overhead storage bins  20  with four passenger service units  52  disposed between overhead storage bins  20 . The passenger service units  52  include gaspers  54 , masks  56 , a cover  57  for the masks, and oxygen units  58 . In another embodiment, the passenger service units  52  can include passenger reading lights. However, in the embodiment shown in the figures, the passenger reading lights  60  are mounted on the posts  22 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . The passenger service units  52  can also include other components or features known in the art, such as flight attendant call buttons, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the wiring, air ducts and other components necessary for the operation of the passenger service unit components and lights, run up and through the posts  22 . In another embodiment, they can extend from the inner side wall into the outboard most end wall. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2-3 and 6 , overhead bin assembly  12  includes an upper housing  62 , lower housing  64 , end walls  66 , passenger service unit covers  68 , dividers  70 , and a center wall  72  (this entire structure is referred to herein as the overhead bin housing  71 ). It will be understood that center wall  72  can be a single piece, as shown in  FIG. 6  or two separate pieces (as shown in  FIG. 7 ) secured to one another or backed up to one another. In other words, the entire overhead bin assembly  12  can be constructed as one unit or it can be constructed as two separate overhead bin assemblies  12   a  placed back to back (whether secured to one another or not). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 5 , in a preferred embodiment, the post  22  includes two extension members  74  that extend upwardly into the interior of the overhead bin housing  71  on either side of the center wall  72 . In other words, the extension members  74  define a space therebetween, which receives center wall  72 . The extension members  74  are secured to the center wall  72  to provide support for the overhead bin housing  71  and overhead storage bins  20 . As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 6 , the passenger service unit cover  68  includes a cut out  84  therein in which a portion of the post  22  is received. As shown in  FIG. 6 , the lower housing  54  includes a number of different pieces. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention. The passenger service unit  52  is housed or defined by the passenger service unit cover  68 , a divider  70  on either side, and the upper housing  62 . In another embodiment, a passenger service unit  52  can be located adjacent the end wall  66 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , each overhead storage bin  20  includes a bin housing  78 , side walls  80  and a latch system  82  (see  FIG. 2 ). In a preferred embodiment, the outside bins include clearance members  76  that provide clearance with the posts  22  when the bins  20  are opened and closed. The clearance members  76  extend into the interior of the outside overhead storage bins  20  and are generally arc shaped. 
       FIGS. 11-15  show another embodiment of a lounge assembly  85  that includes a floor mounted overhead bin assembly  12  and a plurality of seats  18  and surrounding seat shells  24 . In this embodiment, adjacent seats  18  can be accessed by a common or shared entrance space  84 . Lounge assembly  85  is similar to the other lounge assemblies discussed herein. However, instead of a separate entrance space for each seat  18 , at least some of the seats include a shared entrance space  84 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , in a preferred embodiment, the forward facing suite  14  and the aft facing suite  16  each include four seats  18 , for a total of eight seats  18  and eight overhead storage bins  20 , thereby providing each passenger with their own overhead storage bin  20 . As is shown in  FIG. 11 , the overhead storage bin assembly  12  includes posts  22  that support the overhead storage bins  20  and associated components (passenger service units  52  and the like). In a preferred embodiment, the posts  22  include attachment feet  23  that are secured to the existing seat track in an aircraft. However, this is not a limitation and the posts  22 , and or attachment feet  23  can be mounted to the aircraft at a point other than the seat track. In a preferred embodiment, the seats  18  are disposed within a seat shell or seat shells  24 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , the arrangement of the lounge assemblies  85  and the separation between them provides a single longitudinal main aisle  26  and perpendicular cross aisles  28 . The cross aisles  28  provide access for passengers seated in either the aft facing suite  16  or forward facing suite  14  adjacent to the cross aisle  28 . Furthermore, as discussed above, the lounge assembly  85  is arranged so that adjacent seats are accessible by a common entrance  84 . Therefore, when passengers in adjacent seats (e.g.,  2 G and  2 F) enter the cabin, they step through common entrance  84  and into their assigned seat or seat shell before placing their luggage  30  in their personal overhead storage bin  20 , instead of holding up the other boarding passengers. The lounge assembly  85  includes an enclosure  122  that comprises the rear wall  46 , first and second side walls  48  and the forward wall  44  (which includes a number of sections) that cooperate to define the overall seating area. A first dividing wall  124  is positioned between the first and second seats  18  and divides the seating area into a first seat section  126  and a second seat section  128 . The shared entrance space  84  is defined in the front wall  44 , and a first seat path P 1  is defined between the shared entrance space  84  and the first seat section  126  and a second seat path P 2  is defined between the shared entrance space  84  and the second seat section  128 . 
     Preferably, a second dividing wall  130  is positioned between the second and third seats and a third dividing wall  132  positioned between the third and fourth seats. The third dividing wall  132  divides the seating area into a third seat section  134  and a fourth seat section  136 . The front wall  44  includes a second shared entrance space  84  defined therein. A third seat path P 3  is defined between the second shared entrance space  84  and the third seat section  134  and a fourth seat path P 4  is defined between the second shared entrance space and the fourth seat section  136 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, towers  140  are positioned at an end of the first and third dividing walls  124  and  132 . The towers  140  each include first and second pivotable monitors  42  that are pivotable between a closed position and an open position. 
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a single forward facing lounge assembly  85  and illustrates a number of the different features thereof. For descriptive purposes, the four seats that are shown are labeled  2 D,  2 E,  2 F and  2 G. In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly  85  includes privacy dividers  32  positioned on the dividing walls that raise and lower to provide privacy for adjacent passengers. As will be appreciated, each row of four seats preferably includes three privacy dividers  32 . As is shown in  FIG. 11 , the privacy dividers  32  between seats  2 D,  2 E and  2 F are up and the privacy divider  32  between seats  2 F and  2 G is down. In a preferred embodiment, the privacy dividers  32  are housed in a slot  34  and can be raised and lowered by hand. In another embodiment, the privacy dividers  32  can be automated. In another embodiment, each seat can include a privacy divider  32 . I.e., the seat adjacent the main aisle  26  can also include a privacy divider  32 . 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lounge assembly  10  can also include tray tables  38 , docks  40  for electronic devices, video/television monitors  42  that are pivotable (see seat  2 D vs. seat  2 F). As will appreciated by those of skill in the art, the seat shells  24  can include other known features and components, such as armrests, seat belts, audio/video controls, storage compartments, pillows, pockets and the like. However, none of these features are a limitation on the present invention and they can be omitted. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that other features and amenities can be included, and such features and amenities are within the scope of the present invention. 
       FIG. 13  shows an exemplary view of two adjacent seats with the divider  32  lowered and the “companion travel” aspect of the present invention. With the divider lowered  32 , adjacent passengers can feel as though they are eating together (note adjacent tray tables  38 ), watching TV together (note adjacent monitors  42 ) or hanging out together. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14 , in a preferred embodiment, each seat shell  24  or seat compartment includes a support  36  (e.g., footrest) at the end opposite the seat  18 . The support  36  can be used for supporting the sleeping passengers feet or can be used to support a sitting passenger. With this feature, two passengers can sit within the same seat shell  24  on both the seat  18  and the support  36 . In a preferred embodiment, the support  36  is foldable or pivotable such that it can be raised and lowered or otherwise stowed so that it is out of the way when not in use. The support  36  preferably rests on a ledge  88  that is part of front wall  44  of the seat shell  24 . In another embodiment, the support  36  can rest on the floor or any object extending upwardly from the floor. Preferably, the supports  36  are wider than the seats  18  with which they are associated to maximize the sleeping surface. As shown in  FIG. 14 , in a preferred embodiment, each seating area includes storage space or pockets  90  for literature and/or emergency cards, a storage area  92  for amenities (e.g., a make up or toiletries bag), a coat hook  94 , a cup holder  96  and shoe stowage space  98  (through opening  97 ) within the support  36 . Opening  97  can include a door. The seat shells  24  can also include privacy dividers  100  that extend higher in some places than others. 
       FIG. 15  shows another view of a seating area and includes other exemplary features that can be included, such as storage pockets or compartments  102  for items such as tablets and books, water bottle storage  104 , life vest storage  106 , input jack(s)  108  (e.g., USB, electrical power, headphone jacks, etc.), seat controller  110 , personal control unit, handset  112 , reading light  60 , headphone storage  114 , tray table  38  storage, and other accessories such as a smaller cocktail table, storage for eyeglasses, and personal accessories, etc. 
       FIG. 16  shows another lounge assembly  120 , similar to lounge assembly  85 , but that includes only three seats  18  and corresponding seat areas/seat shells. Because of the odd number of seats, one of the seats does note share an entrance with an adjacent seat. The lounge assemblies  85  and  120  shown in  FIGS. 16-17  also include television monitors  42  that are positioned toward the end (near the passenger&#39;s feet) of the seat area (see  FIG. 17 ). 
     Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms used herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes, modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It will be understood that generally, the invention is laterally positioned personal overhead storage space (such that it opens toward the front or rear of the aircraft) that is supported by the floor of an aircraft. The structure that supports the overhead bin may be one or posts, one or more seat shells, walls, monuments, etc. Accordingly, in a broadest sense, an embodiment can include a single post, secured to the floor of the aircraft that positions an overhead storage bin above a passenger. In another embodiment, the overhead storage bin may be positioned over the passenger seat by the seat shell. In another embodiment, the lounge assembly can comprise a single seat or single seat shell and seat with two posts that extend up to and support a single overhead storage bin. In other embodiments, the overhead bin can be supported from the floor and also from above, to provide extra support. The number of bins and number of posts is not a limitation on the present invention. Furthermore, the type of aircraft or plane is not a limitation on the present invention. The aircraft shown in the figures is a wide body aircraft. The present invention can also be used with a narrow body aircraft. For example, in a narrow body aircraft, the lounge assemblies may only include two seat shells and two overhead storage bins on each side of the aircraft. 
     In an embodiment, the seat shells can include walls that extend high enough to support the overhead bin above the seat. The seat shell is secured to the floor of the fuselage of the aircraft. Therefore, the overhead bin is ultimately secured to the floor of the aircraft. 
     In another embodiment, the seat shells  24  can be omitted and the overhead bin assemblies  12  can be used with standalone seats  18 . Furthermore, the type of seat shell  24  is not a limitation on the present invention. It will be understood that the bin does not have to be a pivot bin. It can be a moving bin or other type of articulating bin, as is known in the art. 
     Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list. 
     The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for the disclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements or ranges. 
     The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Any measurements or dimensions described or used herein are merely exemplary and not a limitation on the present invention. Other measurements or dimensions are within the scope of the invention. 
     Any patents and applications and other references noted above, including any that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the various references described above to provide yet further embodiments of the disclosure. 
     These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the above description describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims. 
     While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of the disclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only one aspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as a means-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied in a computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6 will include the words “means for”). Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the disclosure.