Patent Publication Number: US-10314285-B1

Title: Platform and guide panel for aircraft cabin egress

Description:
BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
     1. Field 
     The present disclosure relates generally to aircraft and to mechanical safety features on aircraft. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to mechanical structures for providing rapid egress from aircraft cabins. 
     2. Background 
     Commercial passenger aircraft may include one or more areas where the aircraft crew may rest. Crew rest areas are particularly desirable on aircraft that are used for long duration flights. A crew rest area on an aircraft may include chairs, bunks, and various other amenities, such as a closet, sink, and lavatory. 
     A crew rest area may be provided in a cabin of the aircraft that is separated from the main cabins where passengers of the aircraft are seated. It has been found that a desirable location for the crew rest area may be in the overhead area of the aircraft. The overhead area of the aircraft is the area located generally between the top of stow bins in the main cabin and the crown of the aircraft. By taking advantage of the overhead area of the aircraft for a crew rest area, airlines may reserve use of the main deck area of the aircraft for revenue-generating passengers and cargo. 
     Primary access to and from a crew rest area located in the overhead area of the aircraft may be provided by a stairway or ladder from the main cabin of the aircraft to the crew rest area. The crew rest area preferably also includes a secondary exit. For example, the secondary exit may include a hatchway that provides a secondary escape path from the crew rest area to the aircraft main passenger cabin. Current designs for such an escape hatchway may allow an evacuee from the crew rest area to step down from the crew rest area onto main deck furniture or seats located below the crew rest area in the main passenger cabin. From there, the evacuee may step into a main aisle in the main passenger cabin and then exit the aircraft via a door in the main cabin. Other current designs for an escape hatchway may allow the evacuee to exit from the overhead crew rest area directly into an aisle located below the crew rest area in the main passenger cabin of the aircraft. 
     Some aircraft may include passenger suites in the main passenger cabin. A suite is a private passenger cabin that is walled off from the rest of the main passenger cabin. The suite may have an individual door for exiting and entering the passenger suite to and from the main cabin. 
     The arrangement of passenger suites, seats, and other furniture on the main deck of an aircraft may affect egress via the secondary exit from the crew rest area located above the main deck. For example, a desirable arrangement of passenger suites, seats, and other furniture on the main deck may interfere with the effective use of a conventional hatchway as means for egress from the crew rest area. 
     Accordingly, it would be desirable to have a method and apparatus that takes into account one or more of the issues discussed above as well as possibly other issues. 
     SUMMARY 
     An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an apparatus comprising a platform and a guide panel. The platform extends outward from a substantially vertical structure and below an opening in an overhead area in an aircraft. The guide panel extends upward from the platform. 
     Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides an apparatus comprising a platform and a guide panel. The platform is attached to a substantially vertical structure by a first hinge structure. The guide panel is attached to the platform by a second hinge structure. The apparatus is configured to be moved from a closed state to an open state. The platform extends outward from the substantially vertical structure and under an opening in an overhead area in an aircraft when the apparatus is in the open state. The guide panel extends upward from the platform when the apparatus is in the open state. 
     Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for deploying an apparatus. A hatch that closes an opening in an overhead area in an aircraft is opened. The apparatus is automatically moved from a closed state to an open state in response to opening the hatch. The apparatus comprises a platform attached to a substantially vertical structure by a first hinge structure and a guide panel attached to the platform by a second hinge structure. The platform extends outward from the substantially vertical structure and under the opening when the apparatus is in the open state. The guide panel extends upward from the platform when the apparatus is in the open state. 
     The features, functions, and benefits can be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure or may be combined in yet other embodiments in which further details can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrative embodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrative embodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and benefits thereof will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft cabin in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is an illustration of a plan view of an aircraft cabin in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is an illustration of a block diagram of a ramp egress apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is an illustration of a perspective view of a ramp egress apparatus in a closed state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is an illustration of a perspective view of a ramp egress apparatus in a partially-open state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is an illustration of a perspective view of a ramp egress apparatus in an open state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is an illustration of a block diagram of a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is an illustration of a perspective view of a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in a closed state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch in a closed state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch with a lower panel of the hatch in an open state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch in a partially-open state and a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in an open state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch in an open state and a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in an open state in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for exiting an overhead area in an aircraft cabin in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and 
         FIG. 14  is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for deploying a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The different illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account a number of different considerations. “A number of”, as used herein with reference to items, means one or more items. For example, “a number of different considerations” means one or more different considerations. 
     The different illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that the arrangement of passenger suites on the main deck of an aircraft may interfere with egress from a crew rest area located in an overhead area of an aircraft above the main deck. For example, a desirable arrangement of passenger suites on the main deck may result in a hatchway for exiting the crew rest area being positioned over a passenger suite. An evacuee using such a hatchway may thus exit the crew rest area into the passenger suite. The evacuee then must exit through the door of the passenger suite into the main passenger cabin before exiting the aircraft through a door in the main passenger cabin. 
     This route of escape from the crew rest area through a passenger suite presents a series of potential obstacles and, thus, may increase the time that it takes to exit the aircraft from the crew rest area. Furthermore, such an escape route may not be acceptable under applicable safety regulations. For example, safety regulations may prohibit the door of a passenger suite from being used for evacuation by anyone other than a passenger occupying the suite. In this case, it would not be acceptable for an evacuee from the crew rest area to enter and pass through the passenger suite during an evacuation of the aircraft. 
     The different illustrative embodiments also recognize and take into account that the arrangement of seats and other furniture in the main passenger cabin of an aircraft also may affect egress from a crew rest area located in the overhead area of an aircraft above the main cabin. For example, a desirable arrangement of passenger seats or other furniture in the main cabin may result in a hatchway for exiting the crew rest area being positioned above a seat or other furniture. In this case, the seat or other furniture may present an obstacle that an evacuee from the crew rest area must step on or over on the way to the aisle of the main cabin that leads to a door for exiting the aircraft. Such an obstacle may increase the time that it takes to exit the aircraft from the crew rest area. Furthermore, seats or other furniture located below the hatchway may need to be specifically designed or reinforced to support the weight of evacuees using the hatchway to exit the crew rest area. 
     Illustrative embodiments provide a system and method for egress from a crew rest area in an overhead area on an aircraft that is located over an area in an aircraft cabin where it is undesirable for an evacuee from the crew rest area to enter when evacuating the aircraft. For example, the crew rest area may be located over a number of passenger suites or obstacles in the main cabin of an aircraft. In this case, an escape hatchway provided in the crew rest area may open into a passenger suite or over other obstacles. 
     Illustrative embodiments provide an egress apparatus associated with a hatchway opening in the floor or other location in a crew rest area. The opening may be located over an area in an aircraft cabin where it is undesirable for an evacuee from the crew rest area to enter. The egress apparatus is configured to remain in a closed state during normal operation of the aircraft. In the closed state, the egress apparatus remains out of the way so that the impact of the egress apparatus on the activities of crew members and passengers on the aircraft is reduced. When needed, the egress apparatus may be deployed from the closed state to an open state by a crew member located in the crew rest area. In the open state, the egress apparatus is configured to direct a crew member from the opening located over the undesired area in the aircraft to a desired area for exiting the aircraft. For example, in the open state, the egress apparatus may direct the crew member from an opening in the crew rest area located over a passenger suite on the main deck of the aircraft to the main cabin of the aircraft. The crew member, therefore, may exit the aircraft from the crew rest area via the main cabin without entering the passenger suite or passing through the doorway between the passenger suite and the main cabin. 
     In one illustrative embodiment, the egress apparatus comprises a ramp provided in an opening formed in the overhead area of an aircraft over an undesired area on the main deck of the aircraft. The ramp is configured to move from a closed state to an open state. The ramp closes the opening when the ramp is in the closed state. As the ramp is moved from the closed state to the open state, the ramp rotates downward with respect to the opening and extends laterally outward away from the opening. When the ramp is in the open state, the ramp extends from the opening to a desired area in the aircraft cabin. Thus, an evacuee from a crew rest area in the overhead area may move through the opening and across the ramp to exit the crew rest area directly to the desired area in the aircraft cabin without entering the undesired area. 
     In another illustrative embodiment, the egress apparatus comprises a platform and guide panel attached to a wall located below an opening formed in the overhead area of an aircraft over an undesired area on the main deck of the aircraft. The opening is covered by a hatch. When the hatch is closed, the platform and guide panel may be in a closed state. In the closed state, the platform and guide panel may be folded up against the wall to which the platform and guide panel is attached. When the hatch is opened, the platform and guide panel may move to an open state. In the open state, the platform and guide panel extend outward from the wall into the space below the opening. In the open state, the platform and guide panel are configured to direct a crew member exiting the crew rest area through the opening to a desired area in the aircraft. Thus, an evacuee from the crew rest area may move through the opening and across the platform to exit the crew rest area directly to the desired area in the aircraft cabin without entering the undesired area. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 1 , an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft cabin is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Aircraft cabin  100  may be any open area on the interior of aircraft  102 . For example, without limitation, aircraft cabin  100  may refer to an open interior portion of aircraft  102  that may be configured to carry passengers, cargo, or both. In this example, aircraft  102  may be a commercial passenger aircraft. In other illustrative embodiments, aircraft  102  may be a military or government aircraft or any aircraft configured to carry passengers, cargo, or both in aircraft cabin  100 . 
     A portion of aircraft cabin  100  may include overhead area  104 . Overhead area  104  may include a portion of aircraft cabin  100  that is located in the crown of aircraft  102 . For example, overhead area  104  may include a portion of aircraft cabin  100  that is located above the main flight deck level of aircraft  102 . 
     Crew rest area  106  may be a portion of aircraft cabin  100  that is separated from other portions of aircraft cabin  100  in which passengers may be seated or in which cargo is carried. In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, a portion of overhead area  104  may be configured as crew rest area  106 . For example, crew rest area  106  may be configured to contain bunks, seats, and other amenities that may be used by crew members of aircraft  102  to obtain needed rest. 
     Crew rest area  106  may be implemented in aircraft  102  as crew rest area module  108 . Crew rest area module  108  may comprise a number of pieces that may be installed in overhead area  104  to form crew rest area  106 . Crew rest area module  108  may be used to implement crew rest area  106  in overhead area  104  in a reduced amount of time and in a manner that may reduce modifications to aircraft  102 . 
     Primary access  109  to overhead area  104  provides the normal route for crew members to enter and exit crew rest area  106  during aircraft operations. Primary access  109  may also be referred to as the primary exit for crew rest area  106 . For example, primary access  109  may include stairs  110  or ladder  111  extending from passenger cabin  112  or another location on the main flight deck level of aircraft  102  to crew rest area  106 . 
     A secondary exit from overhead area  104  may be provided via opening  113 . Opening  113  also may be referred to as a hatchway. Opening  113  may provide for more rapid egress from crew rest area  106  than primary access  109 . For example, opening  113  may provide a second and more rapid route for exiting crew rest area  106  in certain situations where rapid evacuation of crew rest area  106  and of aircraft  102  is desired. 
     Opening  113  opens downward from crew rest area  106  into an area of aircraft cabin  100  below overhead area  104 . For example, without limitation, opening  113  may be provided in floor  114  of crew rest area  106  or at another location in crew rest area  106  such that opening  113  opens downward from crew rest area  106 . 
     Opening  113  may be closed by hatch  130 . Hatch  130  may comprise a door or other structure that closes opening  113  when hatch  130  is closed and that may be opened from crew rest area  106  to open opening  113 . 
     Crew rest area  106  may be located in overhead area  104  over undesired area  115  of aircraft cabin  100 . In this case, opening  113  may open downward into undesired area  115 . Undesired area  115  may be any area within aircraft cabin  100  that is undesirable as an area through which an evacuee exiting crew rest area  106  via opening  113  may pass. 
     For example, without limitation, undesired area  115  may be passenger suite  116 . Passenger suite  116  is an enclosed area of aircraft cabin  100  that may be separated by walls and a door from passenger cabin  112  of aircraft  102 . Aircraft exit door  120  for exiting aircraft  102  may be located in passenger cabin  112 . Passenger suite  116  is an example of undesired area  115 , because an evacuee from crew rest area  106  that enters passenger suite  116  must pass through multiple doors before reaching aircraft exit door  120 . An evacuation route from crew rest area  106  that passes through passenger suite  116  may be prohibited by safety regulations for aircraft  102 . 
     As another example, undesired area  115  may be an area of aircraft cabin  100  that includes obstacle  122 . For example, without limitation, obstacle  122  may be seat  124  or other furniture, obstacles, or combinations of obstacles that an evacuee exiting crew rest area  106  straight downward via opening  113  may step over or on. In this case, seat  124  or other obstacle  122  may need to be reinforced or otherwise designed to support the weight of persons that may step on seat  124  or other obstacle  122  when exiting crew rest area  106  straight downward via opening  113 . Obstacle  122  also may make it more difficult to quickly exit crew rest area  106  straight downward via opening  113  in an emergency situation. 
     Desired area  126  may be any area within aircraft cabin  100  that is desirable as an area through which an evacuee exiting crew rest area  106  via opening  113  may pass. For example, without limitation, desired area  126  may be passenger cabin  112  with direct access to aircraft exit door  120  from passenger cabin  112 . As another example, desired area  126  may be aisle  128  in passenger cabin  112 . Aisle  128  may be a portion of passenger cabin  112  that does not include seat  124  or other obstacle  122 . Aisle  128  may provide an unobstructed path through passenger cabin  112  to aircraft exit door  120 . 
     Egress apparatus  132  is associated with opening  113  and hatch  130 . Egress apparatus  132  is configured to move from closed state  134  to open state  136 . Normally, egress apparatus  132  will remain in closed state  134  while opening  113  is closed during normal operation of aircraft  102 . In closed state  134 , egress apparatus  132  is positioned out of the way so that the impact of egress apparatus  132  on the activities of crew and passengers on aircraft  102  is reduced. 
     When desired, opening  113  may be opened, and egress apparatus  132  may be deployed from closed state  134  to open state  136 . For example, egress apparatus  132  may be deployed from closed state  134  to open state  136  by a crew member or other person located in crew rest area  106 . In open state  136 , egress apparatus  132  is configured to direct a crew member from opening  113  located over undesired area  115  in aircraft  102  to desired area  126 . For example, in open state  136 , egress apparatus  132  may direct the crew member from opening  113  in crew rest area  106  located over passenger suite  116  to aisle  128  or another location in passenger cabin  112  of aircraft  102 . The crew member may then exit aircraft  102  from passenger cabin  112  via aircraft exit door  120  without entering passenger suite  116 . 
     In one illustrative embodiment, egress apparatus  132  comprises ramp  138 . Ramp  138  may be positioned in opening  113  such that a portion of ramp  138  forms hatch  130  for closing opening  113  when ramp  138  is in closed state  134 . As ramp  138  is moved from closed state  134  to open state  136 , opening  113  is opened. Ramp  138  rotates downward with respect to opening  113  and extends laterally outward away from opening  113  as ramp  138  is moved from closed state  134  to open state  136 . When ramp  138  is in open state  136 , ramp  138  extends from opening  113  to desired area  126  in aircraft cabin  100 . An evacuee from crew rest area  106  may move through opening  113  and across ramp  138  to exit from crew rest area  106  directly to desired area  126  in aircraft cabin  100  without entering undesired area  115 . 
     In another illustrative embodiment, egress apparatus  132  comprises platform and guide panel  140 . Platform and guide panel  140  may be attached to a wall located below opening  113 . Platform and guide panel  140  may be in closed state  134  when hatch  130  is closed. In closed state  134 , platform and guide panel  140  may be folded up against the wall to which platform and guide panel  140  is attached. Platform and guide panel  140  may move to open state  136  when hatch  130  is opened. In open state  136 , platform and guide panel  140  extend outward from the wall into the space below opening  113 . In open state  136 , platform and guide panel  140  are configured to direct a crew member exiting crew rest area  106  through opening  113  to desired area  126  in aircraft  102 . An evacuee from crew rest area  106  may move through opening  113  and across platform and guide panel  140  to exit from crew rest area  106  directly to desired area  126  in aircraft cabin  100  without entering undesired area  115 . 
     In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, a lower portion of hatch  130  or a portion of egress apparatus  132  may be formed to look like closed overhead storage bin  142  in aircraft cabin  100 . For example, a panel that forms a portion of hatch  130  or of ramp  138  may be configured to look like closed overhead storage bin  142  when hatch  130  is closed or egress apparatus  132  is in closed state  134 . 
     The illustration of  FIG. 1  is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which different illustrative embodiments may be implemented. Other components in addition to, in place of, or both in addition to and in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Some components may be unnecessary in some illustrative embodiments. Also, the blocks are presented to illustrate some functional components. One or more of these blocks may be combined or divided into different blocks when implemented in different illustrative embodiments. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 2 , an illustration of a plan view of an aircraft cabin is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, aircraft cabin  200  is an example of a portion of a main deck in aircraft cabin  100  in  FIG. 1 . 
     In this example, aircraft cabin  200  includes passenger suite  202 . Passenger suite  202  is separated from the rest of aircraft cabin  200  by walls  204  and door  206 . Door  206  may be opened to provide access to passenger suite  202  from aisle  208  of aircraft cabin  200 . Aisle  208  may provide an unobstructed route through aircraft cabin  200  to aircraft exit door  218  for exiting the aircraft. 
     A crew rest area may be located in an overhead area of aircraft cabin  200  above passenger suite  202 . Primary access to and from the crew rest area may be via stairs  210  that lead from the main deck in aircraft cabin  200  up to the crew rest area in the overhead area. A secondary exit from the crew rest area may be provided in the form of an opening in the floor or another location in the crew rest area. Location  212  indicates the location of such an opening in the crew rest area. In this example, the opening is positioned above passenger suite  202 . 
     Passenger suite  202  may be considered an undesired area of aircraft cabin  200  through which a person exiting the overhead area via the opening at location  212  should not pass. Aisle  208  may be considered a desired area of aircraft cabin  200  through which a person exiting the overhead area via the opening at location  212  may pass. 
     In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, an egress apparatus (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) may be associated with the opening at location  212 . In an open state, the egress apparatus may extend from location  212  of the opening over passenger suite  202  to aisle  208 . In the open state, the egress apparatus directs a person exiting the overhead area via the opening at location  212  from the opening to the desired area of aisle  208  so that the person exiting the overhead area via the opening need not enter the undesired area of passenger suite  202  on the way to exiting the aircraft. 
     In one example of an illustrative embodiment, the egress apparatus may include a ramp positioned in the opening at location  212 . In a closed state, the ramp may close the opening. In an open state, the ramp may extend from location  212  of the opening to aisle  208 . 
     In another example of an illustrative embodiment, the egress apparatus may include a platform and guide panel attached to wall  214  of crew rest enclosure  216  below location  212  of the opening from the overhead area. In this case, the opening may be closed by a hatch. In a closed state, the platform and guide panel may be folded up against wall  214  so that the platform and guide panel does not interfere with use of passenger suite  202 . In an open state, the platform and guide panel may extend outward from wall  214  below the opening at location  212  and may extend from below location  212  to aisle  208 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 3 , an illustration of a block diagram of a ramp egress apparatus is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, ramp  300  is an example of one implementation of ramp  138  in  FIG. 1 . 
     Ramp  300  is located in opening  302 . Opening  302  may provide an exit from an overhead area of an aircraft cabin. For example, opening  302  may provide a secondary exit from a crew rest area located in the overhead area. Opening  302  may be formed in the floor or another location of the crew rest area. 
     Opening  302  may be located over an undesired area in the aircraft cabin. It is undesirable that a person enters the undesired area when exiting the overhead area through opening  302  to evacuate the aircraft. For example, opening  302  may be located above a passenger suite or other undesired area in an aircraft cabin. 
     Ramp  300  is configured to move between closed state  304  and open state  306 . Ramp  300  may be configured to close opening  302  when ramp  300  is in closed state  304 . In open state  306 , opening  302  is opened, and ramp  300  provides ramp surface  308  that extends from opening  302  to a desired area in the aircraft cabin. The desired area is an area that a person exiting the overhead area through opening  302  may pass through to evacuate the aircraft. For example, without limitation, the desired area may be an aisle or other location in the main passenger cabin of the aircraft. 
     Latch  310  may be provided to hold ramp  300  in closed state  304  in opening  302 . Latch  310  may be any latching or other structure that holds ramp  300  in closed state  304  until latch  310  is released. Latch  310  may be released by an operator located in the overhead area of the aircraft cabin above opening  302 . Ramp  300  may move from closed state  304  to open state  306  in response to releasing latch  310 . 
     In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, ramp  300  may comprise upper panel  312 , lower panel  314 , and number of linkages  316 . Upper panel  312  may be a substantially flat panel comprising upper surface  318 , lower surface  320 , first end  322 , and second end  324 . Upper panel  312  may be configured to close opening  302  when ramp  300  is in closed state  304 . For example, without limitation, upper surface  318  of upper panel  312  may be configured to be flush with or form part of the floor of an overhead crew rest area when ramp  300  is in closed state  304 . 
     Lower panel  314  may comprise upper surface  326 , lower surface  328 , first end  330 , and second end  332 . In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, lower panel  314  may be configured such that lower surface  328  of lower panel  314  looks like a closed door for an overhead storage bin on an aircraft when ramp  300  is in closed state  304 . 
     First end  322  of upper panel  312  may be connected via hinge structure  334  to edge  336  of opening  302 . Second end  324  of upper panel  312  is an end of upper panel  312  that is opposite first end  322 . Hinge structure  334  may be any structure or number of structures that attaches first end  322  of upper panel  312  to edge  336  of opening  302  in a manner so that second end  324  of upper panel  312  may rotate with respect to first end  322 . Second end  324  of upper panel  312  may rest on and be freely movable with respect to upper surface  326  of lower panel  314 . 
     Upper panel  312  and lower panel  314  may be made of any appropriate material and in any appropriate manner such that upper panel  312  and lower panel  314  are able to support the weight of a person moving over ramp surface  308  when ramp  300  is in open state  306 . 
     Number of linkages  316  may include first linkages  338 , second linkages  340 , and third linkages  342 . Two sets of first linkages  338 , second linkages  340 , and third linkages  342  may be provided for ramp  300 , with each set provided on opposite sides of ramp  300 . The opposite sides of ramp  300  are the sides of ramp  300  that extend from first end  322  to second end  324  of upper panel  312  and from first end  330  to second end  332  of lower panel  314 . 
     Number of linkages  316  are elongated structures. For example, without limitation, number of linkages  316  may be elongated bars or rods. Number of linkages  316  may be made of any appropriate material and in any appropriate manner such that number of linkages  316  is able to support ramp  300  in open state  306  as a person moves over ramp surface  308 . 
     First linkages  338  may be rotatably connected at one end thereof to support structure  344  and rotatably connected at the other end thereof to first end  330  of lower panel  314 . Second linkages  340  may be rotatably connected at one end thereof to first linkages  338  near the end thereof that is attached to support structure  344  and rotatably connected at the other end thereof to one end of third linkages  342 . Third linkages  342  may be rotatably connected at one end thereof to the end of second linkages  340  and at the other end thereof to second end  332  of lower panel  314 . The rotatable connections of number of linkages  316  may be implemented in any appropriate manner and using any appropriate structures to provide the movement of ramp  300  described herein. It is also desirable that the rotatable connections of number of linkages  316  be implemented in an appropriate manner and using appropriate structures such that number of linkages  316  is able to support ramp  300  in open state  306  as a person moves over ramp surface  308 . 
     Support structure  344  refers to a structure adjacent to opening  302  that is not moveable with respect to opening  302 . For example, without limitation, support structure  344  may be a portion of crew rest area module  346  in which opening  302  is formed. 
     Number of linkages  316  is configured to move ramp  300  between closed state  304  and open state  306 . Number of linkages  316  may operate to move lower panel  314  downward and laterally outward from opening  302 . Number of linkages  316  also may be configured to move second end  332  of lower panel  314  downward with respect to first end  330  of lower panel  314 . As lower panel  314  moves downward and outward, upper panel  312  rotates downward about first end  322  as second end  324  of upper panel  312  moves downward on upper surface  326  of lower panel  314 . When ramp  300  is in open state  306 , upper surface  318  of upper panel  312  and a portion of upper surface  326  of lower panel  314  form ramp surface  308 . 
     Movement of ramp  300  from closed state  304  to open state  306  may be started and maintained by gravity pulling downward on the weight of ramp  300  after latch  310  is released. Alternatively, movement of ramp  300  from closed state  304  to open state  306  may be started, maintained, or aided by manually pushing downward on ramp  300 . As another example, without limitation, a spring mechanism or other mechanical structure may be used to start, maintain, or aid the movement of ramp  300  from closed state  304  to open state  306 . 
     Releasable locking structure  348  may be provided to lock ramp  300  in open state  306 . Releasable locking structure  348  may be any structure that locks ramp  300  in open state  306  and that may be released by an operator to move ramp  300  from open state  306  back to closed state  304 . For example, without limitation, releasable locking structure  348  may be an appropriate structure that is attached to or formed on number of linkages  316 . Releasable locking structure  348  may be configured to automatically lock ramp  300  in open state  306  when ramp  300  is moved from closed state  304  to open state  306 . 
     Releasable locking structure  348  may be released when it is desired to move ramp  300  from open state  306  back to closed state  304 . With releasable locking structure  348  released, ramp  300  may be moved from open state  306  to closed state  304  by pushing generally upward on lower surface  328  of lower panel  314 . With generally upwardly directed force applied to lower surface  328  of lower panel  314 , number of linkages  316  will operate to move ramp  300  from open state  306  to closed state  304 . Ramp  300  may be locked in closed state  304  by latch  310 . For example, without limitation, latch  310  may be configured to manually or automatically re-engage ramp  300  to lock ramp  300  in closed state  304  when ramp  300  is moved from open state  306  to closed state  304 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 4 , an illustration of a perspective view of a ramp egress apparatus in a closed state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, ramp  300  in closed state  400  is an example of one implementation of ramp  300  in  FIG. 3 . The same reference numerals used to identify the components of ramp  300  in  FIG. 3  are used to identify the corresponding components of ramp  300  in closed state  400  in  FIG. 4 . 
     In this example, support structure  344  is a fixed structure around an opening. Ramp  300  in closed state  400  closes the opening. First linkages  338  are rotatably attached at one end thereof to support structure  344 . First end  322  of upper panel  312  is attached by a hinge structure (not shown in  FIG. 4 ) to the edge of the opening. Lower surface  328  of lower panel  314  may be configured to look like the closed door of an overhead storage bin in an aircraft cabin for ramp  300  in closed state  400 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 5 , an illustration of a perspective view of a ramp egress apparatus in a partially-open state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, ramp  300  in partially-open state  500  shows ramp  300  in closed state  400  in  FIG. 4  as ramp  300  in closed state  400  is moved partially from a closed state to an open state. The same reference numerals used to identify the components of ramp  300  in  FIG. 3  are used to identify the corresponding components of ramp  300  in partially-open state  500  in  FIG. 5 . 
     In this example, attachment structure  501  provides a structure for rotatably attaching first linkages  338  and second linkages  340  to lower panel  314 . First linkages  338 , second linkages  340 , and third linkages  342  are configured to operate together to displace lower panel  314  downward in the direction indicated by arrow  502  and laterally outward in the direction indicated by arrow  504 . First linkages  338 , second linkages  340 , and third linkages  342  are also configured to operate together to move second end  332  of lower panel  314  downward with respect to first end  330  of lower panel  314 . Second end  324  of upper panel  312  rests on and is movable with respect to upper surface  326  of lower panel  314 . As lower panel  314  moves downward and outward, second end  324  of upper panel  312  moves downward as second end  324  of upper panel  312  slides along upper surface  326  of lower panel  314 . Upper panel  312  rotates downward about first end  322  thereof as second end  324  of upper panel  312  moves downward. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 6 , an illustration of a perspective view of a ramp egress apparatus in an open state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, ramp  300  in open state  600  shows ramp  300  in partially-open state  500  in  FIG. 5  as ramp  300  in partially-open state  500  is moved from a partially-open state to a fully-open state. The same reference numerals used to identify the components of ramp  300  in  FIG. 3  are used to identify the corresponding components of ramp  300  in open state  600  in  FIG. 6 . 
     In this example, upper surface  318  of upper panel  312  and upper surface  326  of lower panel  314  form a ramp surface that extends downward and laterally outward from the opening adjacent to support structure  344 . First linkages  338 , second linkages  340 , and third linkages  342  are configured to support upper panel  312  and lower panel  314  in the desired positions for ramp  300  in open state  600  as a person moves from the opening across the ramp surface. For example, the person may move across the ramp surface from an opening formed as an exit in an overhead crew rest area on an aircraft to a desired area in an aircraft cabin from which the person may exit the aircraft. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 7 , an illustration of a block diagram of a platform and guide panel egress apparatus is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, egress apparatus  700  is an example of one implementation of platform and guide panel  140  in  FIG. 1 . Egress apparatus  700  comprises platform  702  and guide panel  704 . 
     Platform  702  includes first side  706 , second side  708 , upper surface  710 , and lower surface  712 . Second side  708  of platform  702  may be a side of platform  702  that is opposite of first side  706  of platform  702 . 
     Platform  702  may be attached to vertical structure  714  via first hinge structure  716 . For example, first side  706  of platform  702  may be attached to vertical structure  714  via first hinge structure  716 . 
     Vertical structure  714  may be any substantially vertical structure located in a cabin of an aircraft. For example, without limitation, vertical structure  714  may include wall  718  in the cabin of an aircraft. For example, without limitation, vertical structure  714  may be wall  718  or another vertical structure that is part of a module forming an overhead crew rest area in an aircraft cabin. 
     Guide panel  704  may include first side  720  and second side  722 . Second side  722  of guide panel  704  may be a side of guide panel  704  that is opposite of first side  720  of guide panel  704 . 
     Guide panel  704  may be attached to platform  702  by second hinge structure  724 . For example, first side  720  of guide panel  704  may be attached to platform  702  at or near second side  708  of platform  702  via second hinge structure  724 . 
     Egress apparatus  700  may be moved from closed state  726  to open state  728 . In closed state  726 , platform  702  and guide panel  704  may be folded together against vertical structure  714 . For example, without limitation, in closed state  726 , platform  702  and guide panel  704  may be substantially parallel with vertical structure  714 . In this example, in closed state  726 , guide panel  704  may be positioned between platform  702  and vertical structure  714 . 
     In open state  728 , platform  702  extends from vertical structure  714 , and guide panel  704  extends upward from platform  702 . For example, in open state  728 , platform  702  may extend substantially horizontally or at another appropriate angle from vertical structure  714 , and guide panel  704  may extend substantially vertically or at another appropriate angle upward from platform  702 . 
     Latch  730  may be provided to hold egress apparatus  700  in closed state  726  until latch  730  is released. For example, latch  730  may include a moveable pin or other structure that holds egress apparatus  700  in closed state  726  and that may be moved to release latch  730 . When latch  730  is released, egress apparatus  700  may be moved from closed state  726  to open state  728 . 
     Egress apparatus  700  may be configured to move automatically from closed state  726  to open state  728  when latch  730  is released. For example, without limitation, biasing mechanism  732  may be provided to rotate guide panel  704  away from platform  702  about second hinge structure  724 . For example, without limitation, biasing mechanism  732  may include a spring mechanism associated with second hinge structure  724  or another appropriate biasing mechanism. When egress apparatus  700  is in closed state  726 , guide panel  704  may be positioned between platform  702  and vertical structure  714 . When latch  730  is released, biasing mechanism  732  will operate to push guide panel  704  against vertical structure  714  as guide panel  704  is rotated away from platform  702 . As guide panel  704  pushes against vertical structure  714 , platform  702  will be rotated away from vertical structure  714  on first hinge structure  716 . Gravity may then pull downward on platform  702  as biasing mechanism  732  continues to rotate guide panel  704  away from platform  702  to move egress apparatus  700  to open state  728 . 
     Rate controller  734  may be provided to control the rate at which platform  702  rotates downward away from vertical structure  714  as egress apparatus  700  is moved from closed state  726  to open state  728 . For example, without limitation, rate controller  734  may be a hydraulic or other mechanism that is configured to reduce the rate at which platform  702  rotates away from vertical structure  714 . In one example, without limitation, rate controller  734  may be connected between platform  702  and vertical structure  714  to control the rate at which platform  702  rotates away from vertical structure  714 . 
     First support structure  736  may be provided to limit the amount by which platform  702  rotates away from vertical structure  714 . For example, without limitation, first support structure  736  may be a flexible strap or other structure that is connected between platform  702  and vertical structure  714  to limit the amount by which platform  702  rotates away from vertical structure  714 . 
     Second support structure  738  may be provided to limit the amount by which guide panel  704  rotates away from platform  702 . For example, without limitation, second support structure  738  may be a flexible strap or other structure that is connected between guide panel  704  and platform  702  to limit the amount by which guide panel  704  rotates away from platform  702 . 
     In open state  728 , platform  702  extends below opening  740 . Opening  740  may provide an exit from an overhead area of an aircraft cabin. For example, opening  740  may provide a secondary exit from a crew rest area located in the overhead area. Opening  740  may be formed in the floor or another location of the crew rest area. 
     Opening  740  may be located over an undesired area in the aircraft cabin. It is undesirable that a person enters the undesired area when exiting the overhead area through opening  740  to evacuate the aircraft. For example, opening  740  may be located above a passenger suite or other undesired area in an aircraft cabin. 
     In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, egress apparatus  700  in open state  728  provides a route from opening  740  to a desired area in an aircraft cabin so that a person exiting an overhead area through opening  740  need not enter an undesired area below opening  740 . For example, with egress apparatus  700  in open state  728 , platform  702  may extend from below opening  740  to the desired area. A person, thus, may exit opening  740  and move across upper surface  710  of platform  702  to the desired area without entering the undesired area below opening  740 . Guide panel  704  helps to guide the person in the right direction along platform  702  and may prevent the person from entering the undesired area from platform  702 . 
     Opening  740  may be closed  741  by hatch  742 . Opening  740  may be opened  743  by opening hatch  742 . Hatch  742  may be coupled to latch  730  so that latch  730  is released when hatch  742  is opened  743 . For example, hatch  742  may be coupled to latch  730  so that latch  730  is released when hatch  742  is opened  743  by a selected amount. In this example, latch  730  may be released when hatch  742  is only partially opened  743 . Therefore, since egress apparatus  700  may be moved automatically from closed state  726  to open state  728  when latch  730  is released, egress apparatus  700  may be automatically moved from closed state  726  to open state  728  when hatch  742  is opened. 
     For example, without limitation, hatch  742  may be coupled by line  744  or another structure to latch  730  so that latch  730  is released when hatch  742  is opened  743  by a selected amount. In this example, line  744  may be coupled between hatch  742  and latch  730  so that opening hatch  742  pulls on line  744 , and pulling on line  744  to move line  744  by a selected amount releases latch  730 . 
     Hatch  742  may include upper panel  746  and lower panel  748 . Upper panel  746  may be attached via hinge structure  750  to edge  752  of opening  740 . Lower panel  748  may be attached via hinge structure  754  to edge  752  of opening  740 . Lower surface  756  of lower panel  748  may be configured to look like a closed overhead storage bin in an aircraft cabin. 
     Hatch  742  may be held closed  741  by latch  758 . For example, latch  758  may include a number of latches or other structures for holding upper panel  746  and lower panel  748  closed  741  until latch  758  is released. 
     Handle  760  may be provided on upper panel  746  of hatch  742 . An operator may open hatch  742  by pulling upward on handle  760 . For example, an operator located in a crew rest area or other overhead area in an aircraft cabin may open hatch  742  by pulling upward on handle  760  to rotate upper panel  746  of hatch  742  upward about hinge structure  750  into the overhead area. 
     Handle  760  may be coupled to latch  758  such that latch  758  is released when handle  760  is actuated. For example, without limitation, handle  760  may be coupled to latch  758  so that lifting handle  760  by a first amount may release latch  758  to open lower panel  748 . In this example, lifting handle  760  by a second amount may release latch  758  so that upper panel  746  may be opened by lifting up on handle  760 . 
     Lower panel  748  may be configured to open automatically when latch  758  is released. For example, biasing mechanism  762  may be configured to rotate lower panel  748  on hinge structure  754  downward and away from opening  740  when latch  758  is released. For example, without limitation, biasing mechanism  762  may include a spring mechanism associated with hinge structure  754  or another appropriate biasing mechanism. Rate controller  764  may be provided to limit the rate at which lower panel  748  opens when latch  758  is released. 
     Egress apparatus  700  may be moved from open state  728  to closed state  726 . In open state  728 , platform  702  may extend substantially perpendicular to vertical structure  714 , and guide panel  704  may extend substantially vertically upward from platform  702  at or near second side  708  of platform  702 . From this state, rotating guide panel  704  toward platform  702  about second hinge structure  724  causes second support structure  738  to collapse and compress biasing mechanism  732 . 
     Platform  702  may then be rotated about first hinge structure  716  to fold platform  702  and guide panel  704  together against vertical structure  714 . Latch  730  may be configured to automatically engage to hold egress apparatus  700  in closed state  726  when platform  702  and guide panel  704  are folded back up against vertical structure  714 . In this example, egress apparatus  700  may be moved from open state  728  to closed state  726  in which platform  702  and guide panel  704  are substantially parallel with vertical structure  714 , and guide panel  704  is positioned between platform  702  and vertical structure  714 . 
       FIGS. 8-12  illustrate examples of a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in various states. The reference numerals for the components of the platform and guide panel egress apparatus illustrated in  FIGS. 8-12  correspond to the references numerals used for the corresponding components in  FIG. 7 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 8 , an illustration of a perspective view of a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in a closed state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, egress apparatus  700  is shown folded up against wall  718  in an aircraft cabin to which egress apparatus  700  is attached. In this closed state, only lower surface  712  of platform  702  is visible to passengers in the aircraft cabin. Lower panel  748  of a hatch covers an opening (not shown in  FIG. 8 ) in an overhead area. In this example, the opening is located above passenger suite  802  in the aircraft cabin. Lower surface  756  of lower panel  748  is configured to look like a closed overhead storage bin in the aircraft cabin. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 9 , an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch in a closed state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, hatch  742  closes an opening in an overhead area that is located above passenger suite  900  in an aircraft cabin. In this example, hatch  742  includes upper panel  746  and lower panel  748 . Upper panel  746  includes handle  760  for lifting upper panel  746  upward to open hatch  742 . Lower surface  756  of lower panel  748  is configured to look like a closed overhead storage bin in the aircraft cabin. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 10 , an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch with a lower panel of the hatch in an open state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, lower panel  748  of hatch  742  in  FIG. 9  is rotated downward and away from upper panel  746 . Lower panel  748  may be rotated to the open position automatically when handle  760  is moved by a selected amount. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 11 , an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch in a partially-open state and a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in an open state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, upper panel  746  of hatch  742  in  FIG. 10  is lifted upward to partially open opening  740 . Platform  702  and guide panel  704  may move automatically from a closed state to an open state as illustrated in response to upper panel  746  being lifted by a selected amount. 
     In the open state, platform  702  extends outward from wall  718  and below opening  740 . Platform  702  is attached to wall  718  along first side  706  of platform  702  by first hinge structure  716 . In the open state, guide panel  704  extends upward from platform  702 . Guide panel  704  is attached to second side  708  of platform  702  by second hinge structure  724 . 
     In this example, rate controller  734  is attached between platform  702  and wall  718  to reduce the rate at which platform  702  rotates away from wall  718 . First support structure  736  is attached between platform  702  and wall  718  to limit the amount of rotation of platform  702  with respect to wall  718 . Second support structure  738  is attached between platform  702  and guide panel  704  to limit the amount of rotation of guide panel  704  with respect to platform  702 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12 , an illustration of a perspective view of a hatch in an open state and a platform and guide panel egress apparatus in an open state is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, upper panel  746  in  FIG. 11  is rotated further such that opening  740  is fully open. Opening  740  is located above passenger suite  900 . In this case, it is undesirable that a person evacuating an aircraft through opening  740  should enter passenger suite  900 . However, platform  702  extends from below opening  740  to desired area  1200 . Therefore, a person may exit an overhead area through opening  740  and move on upper surface  710  of platform  702  to desired area  1200  without entering passenger suite  900 . Guide panel  704  directs the person in the desired direction along platform  702  and may prevent the person from moving into passenger suite  900  from platform  702 . 
     Rate controller  734 , first support structure  736 , and second support structure  738  are positioned so that rate controller  734 , first support structure  736 , and second support structure  738  do not interfere with movement of a person from opening  740  to desired area  1200  on platform  702 . Rate controller  734 , first support structure  736 , and second support structure  738  may be positioned so that one or more of rate controller  734 , first support structure  736 , and second support structure  738  may help to direct a person in the desired direction along platform  702 . For example, one or more of rate controller  734 , first support structure  736 , and second support structure  738  may be positioned to interfere with movement of a person in an undesired direction along platform  702 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 13 , an illustration of a flowchart of a process for exiting an overhead area in an aircraft cabin is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process in  FIG. 13  may be used, for example, to exit crew rest area  106  using egress apparatus  132  in  FIG. 1 . 
     The process begins by moving the egress apparatus from a closed state to an open state (operation  1302 ). When the egress apparatus is in the open state, the egress apparatus may extend from the location of an opening above an undesired area in an aircraft cabin to a desired area in the aircraft cabin. Operation  1302  also may include opening a hatch that covers the opening. With the egress apparatus in the open state, a person may move through the opening and along the egress apparatus from the opening to the desired area in the aircraft cabin (operation  1304 ), with the process terminating thereafter. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 14 , an illustration of a flowchart of a process for deploying a platform and guide panel egress apparatus is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process in  FIG. 14  may be used, for example, to move egress apparatus  700  in  FIG. 7  from closed state  726  to open state  728 . The process in  FIG. 14  is an example of a process that may be used to perform operation  1302  in  FIG. 13 . 
     The process begins by opening a hatch that closes an opening in an overhead area in an aircraft (operation  1402 ). Operation  1402  may be performed by a person located in the overhead area. If the hatch comprises an upper panel and a lower panel, operation  1402  may include lifting upward on the upper panel from a location in the overhead area. 
     In this case, the lower panel of the hatch may automatically open (operation  1404 ) in response to opening the upper panel. In any case, the platform and guide panel egress apparatus may automatically move from a closed state to an open state (operation  1406 ) in response to opening the hatch, with the process terminating thereafter. A person may then move through the opening and across the egress apparatus in the open state. 
     Illustrative embodiments thus provide a series of mechanisms and panels that may be operated to form an egress apparatus that is configured to guide and facilitate egress from a crew rest area in the overhead area of an aircraft. One or more of the illustrative embodiments provides a capability to exit directly from the crew rest area to a passenger cabin on the main deck of an aircraft without first entering a passenger suite on the main deck that may be installed directly below the crew rest area. Furthermore, one or more of the illustrative embodiments provides a capability to exit directly from the crew rest area to an aisle on the main deck of an aircraft without stepping on or over seats or other potential obstacles that may be installed on the main deck directly below the crew rest area. 
     An apparatus for egress from a crew rest area in accordance with an illustrative embodiment may be contained wholly in a crew rest area module. Therefore, an egress apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment need not impact the design or arrangement of structures on the aircraft, such as ceilings or fuselages; or main deck furnishings, such as seats and closets. 
     An apparatus for egress from a crew rest area in accordance with an illustrative embodiment may be self-supporting and thus may not result in any load sharing between the egress apparatus and any other aircraft structures. Therefore, the design of aircraft structures may be decoupled from any evacuation loads from the crew rest area. 
     The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different illustrative embodiments may provide different advantages as compared to other illustrative embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.