Patent Description:
Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between various locations. During a flight, an attendant may periodically pass through an internal cabin to distribute refreshments. For example, an attendant may push a galley cart through an aisle of an internal cabin. The galley cart retains beverages and snacks, for example. Passengers may select certain beverages and snacks from the attendant.

Lighting within the internal cabin may be dimmed at various times. For example, during a night flight, the lighting within the cabin may be dimmed in order to provide passengers a more desirable resting experience.

An attendant passing through an internal cabin when the lighting is dimmed may have difficulty seeing items on or within a galley cart or tray. As such, the attendant may use a handheld flashlight, for example, to provide illumination in relation to the galley cart or the tray. However, by holding the flashlight, the attendant is unable to use both hands in relation to the galley cart. As such, using a flashlight to illuminate a work surface (such as on a galley cart or tray) during a flight may be awkward.

At the same time, providing increased illumination within the internal cabin to allow the attendant to more easily see a work surface may disturb certain passengers who are trying to rest. For example, light emitted from overhead lighting devices may flood over portions of the internal cabin in which passengers desiring to rest are seated.

Document <CIT>, according to its abstract, discloses an illumination system including a plurality of light sources and a plurality of fixed communicators disposed within the passenger cabin. The plurality of fixed communicators can be configured to send signals to or receive signals from a mobile communicator coupled to or carried by an object. The illumination system further includes a controller in communication with the plurality of light sources and the plurality of fixed communicators and/or the mobile communicator. The controller is configured to determine a location of the object within the passenger cabin based on signals communicated between the plurality of fixed communicators and the mobile communicator. The controller is further configured to selectively activate one or more of the light sources based on the determined location of the object to illuminate a portion of the passenger cabin in proximity to the object.

Document <CIT>, according to its abstract, discloses an interior lighting system for an aircraft, in which individual lighting elements (or groups of lighting elements) can be controlled to emit light of various colors and brightness according to the position of a cart, such as a galley cart. A processor that controls the system receives signals from one or more sensors around the aircraft cabin (e.g., radio frequency identification ("RFID") readers or optical scanners) that indicate the current position of the cart (e.g., by detecting an RFID tag on the cart) and, based on the position of the cart, sends commands to the various lighting elements around the cabin to execute a lighting scene (e.g., gradually raise the lights as the cart comes through).

Document <CIT>, according to its abstract, discloses aircraft lighting systems that are adjustable based on a location of a movable object. The lighting systems can include one or more sensors and a processing device. The one or more sensors can be positioned in an aircraft for determining location data of a movable object relative to the aircraft. The processing device can be communicatively coupled to at least one of the one or more sensors for receiving the location data from the at least one sensor and the processing device can adjust lighting in one or more sections of the aircraft based on the location data.

Document <CIT>, according to its abstract, discloses an image projection system having a projector having an interchangeable optical slide holder configured to adaptively focus an object slide onto a surface of a vehicle. The system includes an image management system associated with the projector. The image management system is for selectively associating one object slide at a time with the interchangeable optical slide holder for projection of the selected object slide upon the surface.

Document <CIT>, according to its abstract, discloses a vehicle cabin arrangement for a vehicle body and a method for lighting a vehicle cabin and for displaying information using such a vehicle cabin arrangement. A lighting device with a light-emitting surface directed towards the cabin interior space is provided on a ceiling section. The lighting device has separate lighting elements each having a dedicated light-emitting element surface, which lighting elements can assume different switch-on states and/or light emission states which differ in at least one property of the emitted light. A control device for controlling the lighting device is provided. The lighting elements are arranged so that, both in the direction parallel to the cabin longitudinal axis and in the direction perpendicular to the cabin longitudinal axis, element surfaces are arranged next to one another. The control device can control each lighting element individually with respect to its switch-on state and/or its light emission state.

Document <CIT>, according to its abstract, discloses a reading light assembly for a vehicle comprising a mounting element and a lamp. The mounting element is adapted for mounting the reading light assembly in a vehicle. The lamp housing includes a light source and is mounted to the mounting element such that it can be rotated about a first axis with respect to the mounting element and tilted about a second axis with respect to the mounting element. The reading light assembly further comprises a first actuating device for rotating the lamp housing about the first axis and a second actuating device for tilting the lamp housing about the second axis.

A need exists for a system and a method for efficiently and effectively illuminating an object within an enclosed space, such as an internal cabin of a vehicle. Further, a need exists for a system and a method that direct illuminating light onto an object without undesirably spilling the light into certain areas of an enclosed space.

With those needs in mind, a system is provided for illuminating at least a portion of an object within an enclosed space having the features described at claim <NUM>. The dependent claims outline advantageous forms of embodiment of the system.

Furthermore, a method is provided for illuminating at least a portion of an object within an enclosed space, whose steps are described at claim <NUM>. The dependent claims outline advantageous ways of carrying out the method.

Certain embodiments provide a system and a method for illuminating at least a portion of an object that is moved within an enclosed space, such as an internal cabin of a vehicle. In at least one embodiment, the system and method are configured to provide task lighting onto a particular area, such as a work surface of a galley cart or tray being used by a flight attendant, for example. The system and method may also provide lighting guides to passengers, when necessary. For example, when the object (such as a galley cart or tray) is not being used, an attendant may operate a lighting assembly to provide illuminated guidance for passengers, such as during boarding to quickly and easily indicate where a specific passenger seat is located.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic diagram of a system <NUM> for illuminating at least a portion of an object <NUM> within an enclosed space <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the enclosed space <NUM> is an internal cabin of a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft. As an example, the object <NUM> is a galley cart or tray that is moved through an aisle of the internal cabin. As another example, the enclosed space <NUM> may be a room within a fixed structure, such as a commercial building, private residence, or the like.

The object <NUM> is configured to move throughout the enclosed space <NUM>, such as in the direction of arrow A, arrow A', and the like. For example, the object <NUM> is configured to move through an aisle of an internal cabin in fore and aft directions.

A beacon <NUM> is positioned on the object <NUM>. For example, the beacon <NUM> can be secured to a top surface <NUM> of the object <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, the beacon <NUM> is affixed to the top surface <NUM>, such as through one or more fasteners, adhesives, and/or the like. As another example, the beacon <NUM> is placed on the top surface <NUM>, and may be removed.

In at least one embodiment, the beacon <NUM> is a light emitting device, such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). For example, the beacon <NUM> can be an LED that is configured to emit infrared light. The beacon <NUM> emits a light tracking signal <NUM>, such as a Lambertian source, giving an infrared light signal.

The light tracking signal <NUM> impinges upon and is received by a light sensor <NUM>, which detects the light tracking signal <NUM>. A lighting control unit <NUM> is in communication with the light sensor <NUM>, such as through one or more wired or wireless connections. The lighting control unit <NUM> determines a position of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space through the light tracking signal <NUM> as detected by the light sensor <NUM>.

The lighting control unit <NUM> is also in communication with a lighting assembly <NUM>. For example, the lighting control unit <NUM> is in communication with an actuator <NUM> of a lighting assembly <NUM>, as well as an activation switch <NUM> of the lighting assembly <NUM>. As an example, the lighting assembly <NUM> is a spot light mounted to a ceiling <NUM> of the enclosed space <NUM>. As another example, the lighting assembly <NUM> can be an attendant work light, reading light, or the like, within an internal cabin of a vehicle. Further, the lighting assembly <NUM> can be disposed over an aisle within the internal cabin.

The lighting assembly <NUM> includes one or more light emitting devices <NUM>. For example, the light emitting devices <NUM> are or otherwise include one or more LEDs. As another example, the light emitting devices <NUM> include one or more incandescent bulbs. The light emitting devices <NUM> are configured to emit illuminating light <NUM>, such as a spot beam of light.

The actuator <NUM> is or includes one or more motors that are configured to move the lighting assembly <NUM> in order to direct and redirect the illuminating light <NUM> at different areas within the enclosed space <NUM>. For example, the actuator <NUM> is configured to one or more of rotate, pivot, linearly translate, operate a projector in relation to, and/or the like the lighting assembly <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM> is configured to operate the actuator <NUM> to move the lighting assembly <NUM> in order to direct the illuminating light <NUM> at a desired area.

In operation, the lighting control unit <NUM> operates the actuator <NUM> to direct the illuminating light <NUM> emitted by the lighting assembly <NUM> onto at least a portion of the object <NUM>, such as the top surface <NUM> or other such work surface. As noted, the lighting control unit <NUM> determines a position of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space <NUM> by the light sensor <NUM> detecting the light tracking signal <NUM> emitted from the beacon <NUM>. Based on the position of the object <NUM>, as determined from the detected light tracking signal <NUM>, the lighting control unit <NUM> operates the actuator <NUM> to direct the illuminating light <NUM> onto a portion of the object <NUM>, such as the top surface <NUM>. As the object <NUM> is moved through the enclosed space, the position of the object <NUM> is detected by the light sensor <NUM> from the light tracking signal <NUM>, and the lighting control unit <NUM> operates the actuator <NUM> to move the lighting assembly <NUM> based on the moving position of the object <NUM> so that the illuminating light <NUM> is directed onto the portion of the object <NUM>, thereby illuminating the portion of the object <NUM>. In this manner, the system <NUM> is able to ensure that a work surface of the object <NUM>, such as the top surface <NUM>, is illuminated with focused, illuminating light <NUM>, which does not flood or wash into dimmed areas of the enclosed space. Accordingly, the system <NUM> is configured to illuminate the portion of the object <NUM>, such as a galley cart or tray, without disturbing individuals within the enclosed space <NUM>, such as those who may be trying to rest.

In at least one embodiment, when the light sensor <NUM> no longer detects the light tracking signal <NUM>, the lighting control unit <NUM> may deactivate the light emitting devices <NUM> of the lighting assembly <NUM>, such as via the activation switch <NUM>. That is, when the light sensor <NUM> does not detect the light tracking signal <NUM>, the lighting control unit <NUM> may deactivate the lighting assembly <NUM> so that the illuminating light <NUM> is not emitted.

In at least one embodiment, a user interface <NUM> is in communication with the lighting assembly <NUM>, such as through one or more wired or wireless connections. For example, the user interface <NUM> can be a fixed or mobile computer station within the enclosed space <NUM>. As another example, the user interface <NUM> can be a handheld device, such as a smart phone or smart tablet.

In operation, the user interface <NUM> is used to activate and deactivate the lighting assembly <NUM>. For example, the user interface <NUM> can be used to activate and deactivate the light emitting devices <NUM>. Further, the user interface <NUM> can be operated by an individual to selectively activate and deactivate an object illuminating mode. As an example, the user interface <NUM> can be operated to activate or deactivate automatic illumination of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space <NUM>, as described herein.

In at least one embodiment, when the object <NUM> is not being used within the enclosed space <NUM>, the user interface <NUM> can be engaged to illuminate a specified area within the enclosed space <NUM>. For example, during a passenger boarding process, an attendant may engage the user interface <NUM> to illuminate an aisle within an internal cabin by a passenger seat. In particular, a passenger may need assistance finding a designated seat. The attendant may operate the lighting assembly <NUM> via the user interface <NUM> to illuminate the aisle by the designated seat with the illuminating light <NUM> as way-finding illuminating light. For example, the way-finding illuminating light may be or include specific colored light, such as blue or green light (emitted by one or more of the light emitting devices <NUM>, such as LEDs), which provides a readily discernable indication to the passenger regarding the location of the designated seat. As such, when the system <NUM> is not being used to illuminate the portion of the object <NUM>, the system <NUM> can be used to provide readily discernable illumination of specific locations within the enclosed space <NUM>. Alternatively, the system <NUM> may not include the user interface <NUM>.

As described herein, the system <NUM> includes the object <NUM> that is configured to be moved within an enclosed space <NUM>. The beacon <NUM> is coupled to (for example, integrally formed with, fixed or otherwise secured to, or positioned on) the object <NUM>. The beacon <NUM> is configured to emit the light tracking signal <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, the system <NUM> further includes the light sensor <NUM>, which is configured to detect the light tracking signal <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM>, which is in communication with the light sensor <NUM>, determines the position of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space <NUM> based on the light tracking signal <NUM> as detected by the light sensor <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM> is further in communication with the lighting assembly <NUM>, and operates the lighting assembly <NUM> to emit the illuminating light <NUM> onto at least a portion of the object <NUM> based on the light tracking signal <NUM> as detected by the light sensor <NUM>.

As used herein, the term "control unit," "central processing unit," "CPU," "computer," or the like may include any processor-based or microprocessor-based system including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic circuits, and any other circuit or processor including hardware, software, or a combination thereof capable of executing the functions described herein. Such are exemplary only, and are thus not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of such terms. For example, the lighting control unit <NUM> may be or include one or more processors that are configured to control operation of the actuator <NUM> and the lighting assembly <NUM>, as described above.

The lighting control unit <NUM> is configured to execute a set of instructions that are stored in one or more data storage units or elements (such as one or more memories), in order to process data. For example, the lighting control unit <NUM> may include or be coupled to one or more memories. The data storage units may also store data or other information as desired or needed. The data storage units may be in the form of an information source or a physical memory element within a processing machine.

The set of instructions may include various commands that instruct the lighting control unit <NUM> as a processing machine to perform specific operations such as the methods and processes of the various embodiments of the subject matter described herein. The set of instructions may be in the form of a software program. The software may be in various forms such as system software or application software. Further, the software may be in the form of a collection of separate programs, a program subset within a larger program, or a portion of a program. The software may also include modular programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The processing of input data by the processing machine may be in response to user commands, or in response to results of previous processing, or in response to a request made by another processing machine.

The diagrams of embodiments herein may illustrate one or more control or processing units, such as the lighting control unit <NUM>. It is to be understood that the processing or control units may represent circuits, circuitry, or portions thereof that may be implemented as hardware with associated instructions (e.g., software stored on a tangible and non-transitory computer readable storage medium, such as a computer hard drive, ROM, RAM, or the like) that perform the operations described herein. The hardware may include state machine circuitry hardwired to perform the functions described herein. Optionally, the hardware may include electronic circuits that include and/or are connected to one or more logic-based devices, such as microprocessors, processors, controllers, or the like. Optionally, the lighting control unit <NUM> may represent processing circuitry such as one or more of a field programmable gate array (FPGA), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), microprocessor(s), and/or the like. The circuits in various embodiments may be configured to execute one or more algorithms to perform functions described herein. The one or more algorithms may include aspects of embodiments disclosed herein, whether or not expressly identified in a flowchart or a method.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective lateral view of a galley cart <NUM> having the beacon <NUM> emitting the light tracking signal <NUM> onto the light sensor <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The galley cart <NUM> is an example of the object <NUM>.

The galley cart <NUM> includes a main housing <NUM> having side walls <NUM> connected to end walls <NUM>, a base <NUM>, and a top wall <NUM>, which includes the top surface <NUM>, such as a worksurface. An internal chamber is defined between the side walls <NUM>, the end walls <NUM>, the base <NUM>, and the top wall <NUM>. The internal chamber is configured to retain beverages, prepared meals, snacks, and/or the like. Wheels <NUM> are rotatably coupled to the main housing <NUM>, such as through axles. The wheels <NUM> are configured to allow the galley cart <NUM> to be rolled through the enclosed space <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), such as fore and aft within an aisle of an internal cabin of a vehicle.

The beacon <NUM> is secured to the top surface <NUM>. For example, a bracket <NUM> is mounted to the top surface <NUM>. The bracket <NUM> may be integrally formed with the top surface <NUM>. As another example, the bracket <NUM> can be secured to the top surface <NUM> through one or more fasteners, adhesives, and/or the like. The beacon <NUM> is secured to the bracket <NUM>, such as a top surface <NUM> of the bracket <NUM>. As another example, the beacon <NUM> can be secured to the top surface <NUM> by a post, column, beam, or other such extension. As another example, the beacon <NUM> can be secured directly to the top surface <NUM> instead of through an intermediary structure.

In at least one embodiment, the beacon <NUM> is fixed to the galley cart <NUM>. In at least one other embodiment, the beacon <NUM> is removably coupled to the galley cart <NUM>, such as through one or more clips, latches, retainers, magnets, or the like. In at least one other embodiment, the beacon <NUM> is a separate and distinct structure that is selectively positioned on and removed from the top surface <NUM>.

In at least one embodiment, the beacon <NUM> is one or more infrared LEDs that emits the light tracking signal <NUM> as an infrared beam having a linear central axis. The light tracking signal <NUM> impinges upon and is detected by the light sensor <NUM>. For instance, as shown in <FIG>, the beacon <NUM> emits an infrared beam <NUM> having a linear central axis <NUM>, and the infrared beam <NUM> impinges upon and is detected by the light sensor <NUM>. As shown, the light sensor <NUM> may be mounted to an underside of the ceiling <NUM>. The light sensor <NUM> may be disposed over an aisle of an internal cabin of a vehicle.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the light sensor <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the light sensor <NUM> includes a circuit board <NUM> having a linear photo detector array <NUM> secured to an underside <NUM> of the circuit board <NUM>. The photo detector array <NUM> can be a charge-coupled device (CCD), a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), or the like. In at least one embodiment, the lighting control unit <NUM> is secured on or within the circuit board <NUM>. In at least one other embodiment, the lighting control unit <NUM> is separate and distinct from the circuit board <NUM>.

An infrared filter <NUM> is disposed between the photo detector array <NUM> and a lens <NUM>. The infrared filter <NUM> filters light so that infrared light, such as the infrared beam <NUM>, impinges on the photo detector array <NUM>. For example, the infrared filter <NUM> matches infrared rays emitted from the beacon <NUM> and blocks other stray signals and light rays.

In operation, the light tracking signal <NUM>, such as the infrared beam <NUM> emitted from the beacon <NUM> (shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) passes through the lens <NUM> and the infrared filter <NUM> onto a specific location of the photo detector array <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM> detects an intersection <NUM> of the central axis <NUM> of the infrared beam <NUM> at the lens <NUM> and a vertical line <NUM> that passes through a center <NUM> of the photo detector array <NUM> and the lens <NUM> (such as a center of the lens <NUM>). The intersection <NUM> forms an angle θ between the central axis <NUM> and the vertical line <NUM>. Further, the distance <NUM> of the vertical line <NUM> between the photo detector array <NUM> and the lens <NUM> is known. As such, in an example, the lighting control unit <NUM> determines the position <NUM> where the central axis <NUM> impinges on the photo detector through the following equation:
Position (<NUM>) on photo detector array (<NUM>) = tangent θ X distance <NUM>.

In this manner, the lighting control unit <NUM> is able to determine the position <NUM> on the photo detector array <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM> then correlates the position <NUM> with the position of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space <NUM>. Optionally, the lighting control unit <NUM> may determine the position of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space <NUM> directly from the position where the light tracking signal <NUM> impinges on the photo detector array <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a first galley cart 130a and a second galley cart 130b in relation to the light sensor <NUM>, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first galley cart 130a includes a first beacon 106a that emits a first light tracking signal 110a, and the second galley cart 130b includes a second beacon 106b that emits a second light tracking signal 110b.

<FIG> illustrates a lateral view of the first light tracking signal 110a and the second light tracking signal 110b in relation to the light sensor <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the light sensor <NUM>, the first galley cart 130a, and the second galley cart 130b may be sized, shaped, and configured such that only one of the first light tracking signal 110a or the second light tracking signal 110b impinges on a detecting portion of the light sensor <NUM> at any one time. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first light tracking signal 110a impinges upon the photo detector array <NUM>, but the second galley cart 130b is too far away from the light sensor <NUM> for the second light tracking signal 110b to impinge upon the photo detector array <NUM>. As such, in at least one embodiment, the lighting control unit <NUM> (shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) may control a lighting assembly <NUM> in relation to only one galley cart 130a or 130b at any one time. Further, the enclosed space <NUM> may include a plurality of systems <NUM>, with each system <NUM> having a respective light sensor <NUM> and a respective lighting assembly <NUM> so that illumination of moving galley carts 130a and 130b is handed off between neighboring systems <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The aircraft <NUM> includes a propulsion system <NUM> that includes engines <NUM>, for example. Optionally, the propulsion system <NUM> may include more engines <NUM> than shown. The engines <NUM> are carried by wings <NUM> of the aircraft <NUM>. In other embodiments, the engines <NUM> may be carried by a fuselage <NUM> and/or an empennage <NUM>. The empennage <NUM> may also support horizontal stabilizers <NUM> and a vertical stabilizer <NUM>.

The fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft <NUM> defines an internal cabin <NUM>, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (for example, galleys, personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), one or more passenger sections (for example, first class, business class, and coach sections), one or more lavatories, and/or the like. The internal cabin <NUM> is an example of, or otherwise includes, an enclosed space, such as the enclosed space <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train cars, watercraft, and the like. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

<FIG> illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 230a of an aircraft, according to an embodiment. The internal cabin 230a is an example of the internal cabin <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The internal cabin 230a may be within the fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft. The fuselage <NUM> is an example of the fuselage <NUM> of <FIG>. In an example, one or more fuselage walls may define the internal cabin 230a. The internal cabin 230a includes multiple sections, including a front section <NUM>, a first class section <NUM>, a business class section <NUM>, a front galley station <NUM>, an expanded economy or coach section <NUM>, a standard economy of coach section <NUM>, and an aft section <NUM>, which may include multiple lavatories and galley stations. It is to be understood that the internal cabin 230a may include more or less sections than shown. For example, the internal cabin 230a may not include a first class section, and may include more or less galley stations than shown. Each of the sections may be separated by a cabin transition area <NUM>, which may include class divider assemblies between aisles <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the internal cabin 230a includes two aisles <NUM> and <NUM> that lead to the aft section <NUM>. Optionally, the internal cabin 230a may have less or more aisles than shown. For example, the internal cabin 230a may include a single aisle that extends through the center of the internal cabin <NUM> that leads to the aft section <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, light sensors <NUM> and lighting assemblies <NUM> (as shown and described in <FIG>, for example) can be disposed over the aisles <NUM> and/or <NUM>.

The aisles <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> extend to door passageways or egress paths <NUM>. Exit doors <NUM> are located at ends of the egress paths <NUM>. The egress paths <NUM> may be perpendicular to the aisles <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The internal cabin <NUM> may include more egress paths <NUM> at different locations than shown.

<FIG> illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 230b of an aircraft, according to an embodiment. The internal cabin 230b is an example of the internal cabin <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The internal cabin 230b may be within a fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft. The fuselage <NUM> is an example of the fuselage <NUM> of <FIG>. In an example, one or more fuselage walls may define the internal cabin 230b. The internal cabin 230b includes multiple sections, including a main cabin <NUM> having passenger seats <NUM>, and an aft section <NUM> behind the main cabin <NUM>. It is to be understood that the internal cabin 230b may include more or less sections than shown.

The internal cabin 230b may include a single aisle <NUM> that leads to the aft section <NUM>. The single aisle <NUM> may extend through the center of the internal cabin 230b that leads to the aft section <NUM>. For example, the single aisle <NUM> may be coaxially aligned with a central longitudinal plane of the internal cabin 230b.

The aisle <NUM> extends to a door passageway or egress path <NUM>. Exit doors <NUM> are located at ends of the egress path <NUM>. The egress path <NUM> may be perpendicular to the aisle <NUM>. The internal cabin 230b may include more egress paths than shown. In at least one embodiment, light sensors <NUM> and lighting assemblies <NUM> (as shown and described in <FIG>, for example) can be disposed over the aisle <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin 230c of an aircraft, according to an embodiment. The internal cabin 230c is an example of the internal cabin <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The internal cabin 230c includes outboard walls <NUM> connected to a ceiling <NUM>. Windows <NUM> may be formed within the outboard walls <NUM>. A floor <NUM> supports rows of seats <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a row <NUM> may include two seats <NUM> on either side of an aisle <NUM>. However, the row <NUM> may include more or less seats <NUM> than shown. Additionally, the internal cabin 230c may include more aisles than shown.

The PSUs <NUM> extend between a front end and rear end of the internal cabin 230c.

Overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> are secured to the ceiling <NUM> and/or the outboard wall <NUM> above and inboard from the PSU <NUM> on either side of the aisle <NUM>. The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> are secured over the seats <NUM>. The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> extend between the front and rear end of the internal cabin 230c. Each stowage bin assembly <NUM> may include a pivot bin or bucket <NUM> pivotally secured to a strongback (hidden from view in Figure <NUM>). The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> may be positioned above and inboard from lower surfaces of the PSUs <NUM>. The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> are configured to be pivoted open in order to receive passenger carry-on baggage and personal items, for example.

As used herein, the term "outboard" means a position that is further away from a central longitudinal plane <NUM> of the internal cabin 230c as compared to another component. The term "inboard" means a position that is closer to the central longitudinal plane <NUM> of the internal cabin 230c as compared to another component.

As shown, a plurality of light sensors <NUM> and lighting assemblies <NUM> are secured to the ceiling <NUM>. In particular, the light sensors <NUM> and the lighting assemblies <NUM> are disposed over the aisle <NUM>. Objects, such as galley carts and trays, may be moved within the aisle.

<FIG> illustrates an axial cross-sectional view of an internal cabin 230d of an aircraft, according to an embodiment. The internal cabin 230d is an example of the internal cabin <NUM> shown in <FIG>. As shown, the light sensor <NUM> and the lighting assembly <NUM> can be positioned above a ceiling <NUM>. An aperture <NUM> is formed through the ceiling <NUM> and allows the light sensor <NUM> to receive light tracking signals <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) therethrough, and the lighting assembly <NUM> to emit the illuminating light <NUM> therethrough into an aisle <NUM>.

When objects (such as the object <NUM> shown in <FIG>) are not within the aisle <NUM>, the lighting assembly <NUM> may be operated to illuminate a particular area within the internal cabin 230d. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, during a boarding process, an attendant may operate the lighting assembly <NUM> to emit the illuminating light <NUM> in a specific color, which may be used to direct a passenger toward a designated seat. As such, in addition to illuminating objects, as described herein, embodiments may also be used in relation to way-finding within the internal cabin 230d.

As shown in <FIG>, the light sensor <NUM> and the lighting assembly <NUM> may be disposed above the ceiling <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> may include a window, such as a plastic window that blends in with the ceiling <NUM>. The window may not be readily discernable when the lighting assembly <NUM> is deactivated.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the lighting assembly <NUM> emitting the illuminating light <NUM> onto a work surface <NUM> (such as the top surface <NUM>) of an object <NUM> (such as a galley cart or tray), according to an embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the lighting assembly <NUM> includes a gimbal bracket <NUM> and a light projector <NUM> pivotally coupled to the gimbal bracket <NUM>, such as via one or more pivot axles. The actuator <NUM> is operatively coupled to the light projector <NUM> so as to pivot the light projector <NUM> in relation to the gimbal bracket <NUM>. The light projector <NUM> may be a spot light. As another example, the light projector <NUM> may be a reading light, such as may be typically used with a PSU. As another example, the light projector <NUM> may be an attendant work light, such as may be typically used in galleys of an aircraft.

As described herein, the light sensor <NUM> detects the light tracking signal <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM> operates the actuator <NUM> based on the light tracking signal <NUM>, as detected by the light sensor <NUM>, to move the light projector <NUM> to emit the illuminating light <NUM> onto the work surface <NUM>.

In at least one embodiment, the light projector <NUM> is configured to shape the illuminating light <NUM> to be localized to (that is, does not wash or flood onto other areas) the work surface <NUM> (for example, shaping the illuminating light to match the target surface that is desired to be illuminated). In at least one embodiment, the lighting assembly <NUM> further includes a rotatable slide holder <NUM>, which includes one or more slides that are configured to shape the illuminating light <NUM> to be localized on the work surface <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the lighting assembly <NUM> of <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates a bottom view of the lighting assembly <NUM> of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an actuator <NUM>, such as a motor, is operatively coupled to the slide holder <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> is configured to rotate the slide holder <NUM> to move different slides <NUM> within the light projector <NUM>. The slides <NUM> shape the illuminating light <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to be shaped as desired, such as to match the work surface <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the lighting control unit <NUM> may also be in communication with the actuator <NUM>. The lighting control unit <NUM> can operate the actuator <NUM> to shift different slides <NUM> into the light projector <NUM> based on the position of the object <NUM>. For example, as the object <NUM> moves to different positions, different slides <NUM> may be selectively moved into the light projector <NUM> to alter the shape of the illuminating light <NUM> in order to ensure that the work surface <NUM> is illuminated, as desired. Optionally, the lighting assembly <NUM> may not include the slide holder <NUM> or the actuator <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective top view of a tray <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The tray <NUM> is an example of the object <NUM>, shown in <FIG>. The tray <NUM> is configured to hold beverages, snacks, and/or the like. The beacon <NUM> is disposed on the top surface <NUM> of the tray <NUM>. The beacon <NUM> can be fixed to the top surface <NUM>. Optionally, the beacon <NUM> can be removably supported on the top surface <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a flow chart of a method for illuminating at least a portion of an object within an enclosed space, according to an embodiment. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, at <NUM>, the light sensor <NUM> and the lighting assembly <NUM> are disposed within the enclosed space <NUM>, such as above an aisle of an internal cabin.

At <NUM>, it is determined whether or not the object <NUM> is in use. If the object <NUM> is not in use, the method may proceed to <NUM>, at which the lighting assembly <NUM> (such as via the user interface <NUM>) may operate as a way-finder to direct individuals to specific areas. In an example, the attendant engages the user interface <NUM> to active the lighting assembly <NUM> into a way-finding mode to emit a specific colored illuminating light <NUM> at a location of the aisle by a designated seat for a passenger. The method then returns to <NUM>.

If, at <NUM>, the object <NUM> is in use (such as within the aisle), the light sensor <NUM> detects the light tracking signal <NUM> emitted from the beacon <NUM> of the object <NUM>. At <NUM>, the lighting control unit <NUM> then operates the lighting assembly <NUM> to direct the illuminating light <NUM> onto at least a portion of the object <NUM> (such as a work surface) based on the light tracking signal <NUM>, as detected by the light sensor <NUM>. The method then returns to <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a flow chart of a method for illuminating at least a portion of an object within an enclosed space, according to an embodiment. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the method includes coupling, at <NUM>, a beacon <NUM> to an object <NUM> configured to be moved within the enclosed space <NUM>; emitting, at <NUM>, a light tracking signal <NUM> from the beacon <NUM>; detecting, at <NUM>, by a light sensor <NUM>, the light tracking signal <NUM> emitted from the beacon <NUM>; determining, at <NUM>, by a lighting control unit <NUM> in communication with the light sensor <NUM>, a position of the object <NUM> within the enclosed space <NUM> based on the light tracking signal <NUM> as detected by the light sensor <NUM>; and operating, at <NUM>, by the lighting control unit <NUM>, a lighting assembly <NUM> to emit illuminating light <NUM> onto the at least a portion of the object <NUM> based on the light tracking signal <NUM> as detected by the light sensor <NUM>.

In at least one embodiment, the method also includes providing, by the lighting assembly <NUM>, way-finding illumination for individuals within the enclosed space <NUM> when the light sensor <NUM> does not detect the light tracking signal <NUM>.

In at least one embodiment, said operating includes deactivating the lighting assembly <NUM> when the light sensor112 no longer detects the light tracking signal <NUM>.

The enclosed space <NUM> may be an internal cabin of a vehicle. The object <NUM> may include one of a galley cart or a tray. The beacon <NUM> may include a light emitting diode (LED), and the light tracking signal <NUM> may include infrared light.

In at least one embodiment, said coupling comprises securing the beacon <NUM> to a top surface <NUM> of the object <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A system (<NUM>) for illuminating at least a portion of an object (<NUM>) within an enclosed space (<NUM>), the system (<NUM>) comprising:
an object (<NUM>) configured to be moved within the enclosed space (<NUM>);
a beacon (<NUM>) coupled to the object (<NUM>), wherein the beacon (<NUM>) is configured to emit a light tracking signal (<NUM>);
a light sensor (<NUM>), wherein the light sensor (<NUM>) is configured to detect the light tracking signal (<NUM>) emitted from the beacon (<NUM>);
wherein the light sensor (<NUM>) comprises:
a circuit board (<NUM>);
a linear photo detector array (<NUM>) coupled to the circuit board (<NUM>);
a lens (<NUM>); and
an infrared filter (<NUM>) disposed between the photo detector array (<NUM>) and the lens (<NUM>);
wherein the system further comprises a lighting control unit (<NUM>) in communication with the light sensor (<NUM>), wherein the lighting control unit (<NUM>) is configured to determine a position of the object (<NUM>) within the enclosed space (<NUM>) based on the position of the light tracking signal (<NUM>) onto the linear photo detector array (<NUM>) as detected by the light sensor (<NUM>); and
wherein the system (<NUM>) further comprises a lighting assembly (<NUM>) in communication with the lighting control unit (<NUM>), wherein the lighting control unit (<NUM>) is configured to operate the lighting assembly (<NUM>) to emit illuminating light (<NUM>) onto the at least a portion of the object (<NUM>) based on the light tracking signal (<NUM>) as detected by the light sensor (<NUM>).