Patent Description:
Where the offerings are displayed on the galley cart during the non-TTL stages, the galley cart may be stowed flush against a wall of the monument or within the entryway or exit of the aircraft cabin. For example, the galley cart may be unrestrained. By way of another example, the galley cart may be restrained with a setup such as a strap. The galley cart, however, may need to be separately restrained within a galley cart bay within a monument in the aircraft cabin during TTL stages of flight. Aircraft cart retention systems are disclosed in <CIT> and <CIT>.

An aircraft cart retention system is provided as defined by claim <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the at least one member may include a first linkage, a second linkage, and a first connecting linkage coupled to the first linkage and the second linkage. The at least an additional member may include a third linkage, a fourth linkage, and a second connecting linkage coupled to the third linkage and the fourth linkage.

In some embodiments, the at least one latch may include a first latch coupled proximate to a first joint coupling the first linkage and the first connecting linkage, and a second latch coupled proximate to a second joint coupling the second linkage and the first connecting linkage. The at least an additional latch may include a third latch coupled proximate to a third joint coupling the third linkage and the second connecting linkage, and a fourth latch coupled proximate to a fourth joint coupling the fourth linkage and the second connecting linkage.

In some embodiments, the at least one member may be configured to rotate about at least one axis through at least one hinge coupling the at least one member to the structure. The at least an additional member may be configured to rotate about an at least an additional axis through at least an additional hinge coupling the at least an additional member to the structure.

In some embodiments, the at least one axis and the at least an additional axis may be collinear.

In some embodiments, the at least one member may include at least one shaft. The at least an additional member may include at least an additional shaft.

In some embodiments, the at least one shaft may be configured to extend outward from the structure when the first aircraft retention device is in the deployed position. The at least one shaft may be configured to be inserted in the structure when the first aircraft retention device is in the deployed position. The at least an additional shaft may be configured to extend outward from the structure when the second aircraft retention device is in the deployed position. The at least an additional shaft may be configured to be inserted in the structure when the second aircraft retention device is in the deployed position.

In some embodiments, a third aircraft cart retention device may be configured to actuate between a third deployed position and a third stowed position. The third aircraft cart retention device may include at least a third member coupled to the structure installed within the aircraft cabin. The third aircraft cart retention device may include at least a third latch coupled to the at least a third member. The first aircraft cart retention device and the third aircraft cart retention device may be configured to retain a second aircraft cart in a second position proximate to the exterior surface of the structure with at least two points of contact during the non-TTL stages of flight when the first aircraft cart retention device is in the first deployed position and the third aircraft cart retention device is in the third deployed position. The first aircraft cart retention device and the third aircraft cart retention device may be configured to allow the aircraft cart to be removed from the second position proximate to the exterior surface of the structure when the first aircraft cart retention device is in the first stowed position and the third aircraft cart retention device is in the third stowed position. The second aircraft cart may be smaller than the first aircraft cart.

However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the instant disclosure the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without some of these specific details insofar as the resulting embodiment falls within the scope of the claims.

<FIG> in general illustrate an aircraft cart retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

Aircraft service providers may provide in-flight self-service snack and/or drink offerings within an aircraft cabin. For example, the offerings may be stored within dedicated, accessible compartments of a monument in the aircraft cabin. By way of another example, the offerings may be temporarily displayed on a galley countertop during non-taxi, takeoff, or landing (non-TTL) stages (e.g., positioned within a custom entryway or exit of the aircraft cabin). By way of another example, the offerings may be temporarily displayed on a galley cart or trolley during the non-TTL stages (e.g., positioned within the custom entryway or exit of the aircraft cabin). Here, the galley cart may also act as a trash receptacle when in the entryway or exit.

Where the offerings are displayed on the galley cart during the non-TTL stages, the galley cart may be stowed flush against a wall of the monument or within the entryway or exit of the aircraft cabin. For example, the galley cart may be unrestrained. By way of another example, the galley cart may be restrained with a setup such as a strap or chain. The galley cart, however, may need to be separately restrained within a galley cart bay of a monument in the aircraft cabin during TTL stages of flight.

Although a permanent structure may not be possible for purposes of retaining or securing the galley cart within the entryway or exit of the aircraft cabin, it would be desirable to provide a lightweight mechanism such as a retention device to replace a strap or chain. The retention device may be a more secure approach to retaining the galley cart. In addition, the retention device may offer an aesthetically appealing alternative to the strap or chain. Further, the retention device may provide a simple and intuitive retention and release function.

Referring in general to <FIG>, an aircraft cabin <NUM> may include one or more aircraft monuments <NUM>, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. It is noted herein the one or more aircraft monuments <NUM> may face in any direction (e.g., forward-facing, rear-facing, or the like) within the aircraft cabin <NUM>.

The monument <NUM> may include or may be coupled to a structure <NUM> (wall, divider, partition, or the like). It is noted herein the monument <NUM> and/or the structure <NUM> may be installed anywhere within the aircraft cabin <NUM>. In one non-limiting example, the monument <NUM> and/or the structure <NUM> may be installed within a galley section of the aircraft cabin <NUM>. In another non-limiting example, the monument <NUM> and/or the structure <NUM> may be installed proximate to an aisle of the aircraft cabin <NUM>. The wall or structure <NUM> may include an exterior surface <NUM>.

The aircraft cabin <NUM> may include one or more galley carts <NUM>.

An aircraft monument <NUM> may include one or more aircraft cart bays for the one or more galley carts <NUM>. For example, the one or more aircraft cart bays may include a double cart bay, a single cart bay door, or the like. It is noted herein "aircraft cart bay" and variants of the term including, but not limited to, "cart bay," or the like may be considered equivalent, for purposes of the disclosure.

A cart bay may include one or more aircraft cart bay doors. For example, the one or more cart bay doors may be a double cart bay door, a single cart bay door, a bi-fold cart bay door, or the like. It is noted herein "aircraft cart bay door" and variants of the term including, but not limited to, "cart bay door," or the like may be considered equivalent, for purposes of the disclosure.

The cart bay may be configured to house one or more aircraft carts <NUM>. For example, the one or more aircraft carts <NUM> may include full-size aircraft carts or reduced-size aircraft carts (e.g., half-size aircraft carts, or the like). For instance, the full-size aircraft carts may be wide aircraft carts, while the reduced-size aircraft carts may be narrow aircraft carts. By way of another example, the one or more aircraft carts <NUM> may include tall aircraft carts or short aircraft carts. It is noted herein "aircraft cart," "cart," "trolley," "trolley cart," or the like may be considered equivalent, for purposes of the disclosure.

An aircraft cart <NUM> may include a body. The body of the aircraft cart <NUM> may be configured to fit within the cart bay. For example, the body of each of multiple carts <NUM> may be configured to fit within a single cart bay. For instance, the multiple carts <NUM> may be configured to fit side-by-side. In addition, the multiple carts <NUM> may be configured to fit end-to-end.

The aircraft cart <NUM> may include a cart content door. The cart content door may be coupled to the body of the aircraft cart <NUM>. The cart bay door and the cart content door may be hinged on a same side, such that the cart bay door may rotate about an axis in the same direction as the cart content door (e.g., both counter-clockwise (CCW) or both clockwise (CW)). The cart bay door and the cart content door may be hinged on different sides, such that the cart bay door may rotate in a different direction as the cart content door (e.g., CCW for the cart bay door versus CW for the cart content door, or vice versa). It is noted herein "aircraft cart content door," and "cart content door," or the like may be considered equivalent, for purposes of the disclosure.

It is noted herein that an aircraft monument <NUM> may include one or more storage compartments in addition to or in the alternative to the one or more aircraft cart bays.

The one or more storage compartments may be configured to store one or more galley service items (e.g., food options, drink options, or the like). The one or more storage compartments may be configured to store one or more aircraft cabin amenities (e.g., pillows, blankets, bassinets, or the like). The one or more storage compartments may include one or more safety devices (e.g., air masks, personal floatation devices, or the like).

The one or more storage compartments may include a storage compartment (e.g., a wardrobe) configured to receive long and/or large items (e.g., passenger amenities needing to be hung, carry-on luggage, or the like) that require an increased space and/or that a passenger may prefer to store in a substantially vertical or upright orientation. The one or more storage compartments may be configured to receive and hold (e.g., contain, secure, or the like) one or more passenger amenities including, but not limited to, paper-printed materials (e.g., magazines, newspapers, pamphlets, or the like), select personal electronic devices (e.g., phones, tablets, phablets, laptops, music devices, digital video disc (DVD) players, handheld gaming consoles or devices, or the like), food products, drink products, or the like. The one or more storage compartments may include one or more electronic connections for one or more passenger amenities such as, but not limited to, one or more charging ports, one or more charging cables, or the like. The one or more storage compartments may include one or more electronic connections in communication with one or more components of the passenger compartment such as, but not limited to, one or more display device connection ports, one or more display device connection cables, one or more audio output jacks (e.g., headphone jacks), one or more audio input jacks, or the like.

The one or more storage compartments may include a door. The one or more storage compartments may be similar to a shelving unit without doors.

The one or more aircraft carts <NUM> may be configured to stow flush in a select position proximate to (e.g., a select distance from or against) the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM> during non-TTL stages of flight. To retain the one or more aircraft carts <NUM> against the exterior surface <NUM>, one or more aircraft cart retention devices may be used. For example, an aircraft cart retention system may need a number of the aircraft cart retention devices so as to universally accept and retain any size and/or any height of aircraft cart <NUM>. It is noted herein "aircraft cart retention device," "retention device," or the like may be considered equivalent, for purposes of the disclosure.

<FIG> in general illustrate an aircraft cart retention device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a full aircraft cart <NUM>. In addition, <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a reduced-size aircraft cart <NUM>. Further, <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a general aircraft cart <NUM>.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> includes a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly includes one or more linkages <NUM>. For example, the one or more linkages <NUM> may be horizontal or substantially horizontal (e.g., as defined when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is deployed). Where there are multiple linkages <NUM>, the linkage assembly may include one or more connecting linkages <NUM> coupling the multiple linkages <NUM>. It is noted herein the one or more connecting linkages <NUM> may be set at an angle relative to the one or more linkages <NUM> (e.g., as defined when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is deployed). For instance, the one or more connecting linkages <NUM> may be vertical or substantially vertical (e.g., as defined when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is deployed).

A linkage <NUM> may be coupled to the structure <NUM> via a hinge <NUM> mounted to or installed within the structure <NUM>. For example, the hinge <NUM> may allow the linkage <NUM> to actuate (e.g., rotate about an axis through the hinge <NUM>) between a stowed position and a deployed position, and vice versa. In this regard, the linkage assembly (and thus the aircraft cart retention device <NUM>) may be capable of actuating between a stowed position and a deployed position, or vice versa.

In one non-limiting example, the linkage assembly is a four-bar linkage assembly, with the structure <NUM>, an upper linkage <NUM>, a lower linkage <NUM>, and a connecting linkage <NUM> forming the four linkages. The upper linkage and the lower linkage <NUM> may actuate (e.g., rotate) together, being coupled together by the connecting linkage <NUM>, about respective axes through respective hinges <NUM> in the structure <NUM>.

Where the aircraft cart retention system includes multiple aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, it is noted herein the counterpart axes may be collinear (e.g., axes through the upper hinges <NUM> may be collinear and axes through the lower hinges <NUM> may be collinear, as illustrated in <FIG> and in <FIG>).

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> includes one or more latches <NUM> configured to retain the aircraft cart <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the deployed position. For example, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may include an upper latch <NUM> and a lower latch <NUM> on a linkage <NUM>. For instance, the upper latch <NUM> may be located proximate to an upper joint coupling an upper linkage <NUM> and the linkage <NUM>, and the lower latch <NUM> may be located proximate to a lower joint coupling a lower linkage <NUM> and the linkage <NUM>. It is noted herein the upper latch <NUM> and the lower latch <NUM> may be a same defined plane or in different (e.g., offset) defined planes.

The one or more latches <NUM> may be positioned at one or more locations against the retained aircraft cart <NUM> to ensure universality with any height of aircraft cart <NUM>. For example, the one or more latches <NUM> may include one or more latches <NUM> of a length configured to retain the aircraft cart <NUM> along the body of the aircraft cart <NUM>. By way of another example, the one or more latches <NUM> may include one or more latches <NUM> of a length configured to retain the aircraft cart <NUM> along the cart content door and/or the body of the aircraft cart <NUM>.

The one or more latches <NUM> may be configured to actuate (e.g., rotate about an axis through a linkage <NUM> or <NUM>) between a closed position and an open position. For example, the closed position may be a position in which the one or more latches <NUM> retain the aircraft cart <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the deployed position. By way of another example, the open position may be a position in which the one or more latches <NUM> allows the aircraft cart <NUM> to be moved from a position proximate to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position.

It is noted herein the linkages <NUM> and/or the linkages <NUM> may include a handle for an operator to interact with when the linkage assembly actuates (e.g., rotates) between the stowed position and the deployed position, and vice versa.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is configured to stow within a corresponding cavity <NUM> (e.g., a groove, an indentation, cut-out, or the like). The cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections configured to receive one or more components of the corresponding aircraft cart retention device <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position. For example, the cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections configured to receive the one or more linkages <NUM>. By way of another example, the cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections configured to receive the one or more linkages <NUM>. By way of another example, the cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections configured to receive the one or more latches <NUM>.

Although embodiments of the disclosure illustrate separate sections of a cavity <NUM>, it is noted herein at least some of the sections of the cavity <NUM> may be combined such that components of the corresponding aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may share a section of the cavity <NUM>. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

Although embodiments of the disclosure illustrate separate cavities <NUM>, it is noted herein at least some of the cavities <NUM> may be interconnected within the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

Referring now to <FIG>, a pair of aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may retain a full-size aircraft cart <NUM>. Each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may actuate (e.g., rotate) from a deployed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), through one or more intermediate positions (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), and to a stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). Although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may similarly actuate (e.g., rotate) from the stowed position, through the one or more intermediate positions, and to the deployed position.

Referring now to <FIG>, a second pair of aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may retain a reduced-size aircraft cart <NUM>. Each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may actuate (e.g., rotate) from a deployed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) through one or more intermediate positions (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) to a stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). Although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may similarly actuate (e.g., rotate) from the stowed position, through the one or more intermediate positions, and to the deployed position.

To maintain universality of the aircraft cart retention system, at least three aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may need to be installed within the aircraft cabin <NUM>. For example, a first aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed for both a short a full-size or a reduced-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), a second aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed for a full-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), and a third aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed for a reduced-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). For instance, the third aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed at a location configured to retain one or multiple reduced-size galley carts <NUM> (e.g., with enough latches <NUM> to retain the one or multiple reduced-size galley carts <NUM>). It is noted herein, however, the aircraft cart retention system is not limited to the three aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), but instead may include any number of aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>.

It is noted herein retaining the aircraft cart <NUM> within the aircraft cart retention system may require the following steps: fold down an aircraft cart retention device <NUM> specific to the aircraft cart <NUM> size (e.g., wide or narrow), park the aircraft cart <NUM>, fold down the shared aircraft cart retention device <NUM>, and turn the latches <NUM> specific to the aircraft cart <NUM> height (e.g., tall or short). Although not shown, it should be understood the above order of steps is non-limiting, and that removing the aircraft cart <NUM> may require the steps in a reverse order from those listed above. In addition, it should be understood the above order of steps is non-limiting, and retaining and/or removing the aircraft cart <NUM> may require more or fewer steps performed in a same or different order than those listed above.

The cavity <NUM> may be partially or fully cut-out from the structure <NUM>. In general, the cavity <NUM> is configured to receive a corresponding aircraft cart retention device <NUM> such that the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is inset within the structure <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). In this regard, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may not interfere (e.g., stick out into) a floor area of the aircraft cabin <NUM> when the aircraft cart <NUM> is not being retained by the aircraft cart retention device <NUM>. It is noted herein, however, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be configured to stow flush against the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>.

It is noted herein the linkages <NUM>, the connecting linkages <NUM>, and the linkage assembly may be considered members <NUM>, connecting members <NUM>, and a member assembly, respectively, for purposes of the present disclosure.

Although embodiments of the disclosure illustrate the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> being mounted to or installed within the structure <NUM>, it is noted herein the structure <NUM> is non-limiting and the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may be mounted to or installed within any structure within the aircraft cabin <NUM>. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

<FIG> in general illustrate an aircraft cart retention device <NUM>, not in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a full aircraft cart <NUM>. In addition, <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a reduced-size aircraft cart <NUM>. Further, <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a general aircraft cart <NUM>.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may include a bar assembly. The bar assembly may include one or more primary bars <NUM> set at an angle to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>. For instance, the one or more primary bars <NUM> may be set perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>. Where there are multiple primary bars <NUM>, the bar assembly may include one or more auxiliary bars <NUM> coupled to and set at an angle to the multiple primary bars <NUM>. For instance, the one or more auxiliary bars <NUM> may be set perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the multiple primary bars <NUM> (e.g., such that the one or more auxiliary bars <NUM> are set parallel or substantially parallel to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>).

A primary bar <NUM> may be coupled to the structure <NUM> via a hinge <NUM> mounted to or installed within the structure <NUM>. For example, the hinge <NUM> may allow the primary bar <NUM> to actuate (e.g., rotate about an axis through the bar <NUM> or <NUM>) between a stowed position and a deployed position, and vice versa. In this regard, the bar assembly (and thus the aircraft cart retention device <NUM>) may be capable of rotating between a stowed position and a deployed position, or vice versa.

In one non-limiting example, the two primary bars <NUM>, an auxiliary bar <NUM>, and the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM> may define a confined space in which a full-size galley cart <NUM> may be retained. The primary bars <NUM> may actuate (e.g., rotate) together, being coupled together by the auxiliary bar <NUM>, about respective axes through respective hinges <NUM> in the structure <NUM>.

It is noted herein the axes through the hinges <NUM> may be collinear (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG> and in <FIG>).

The bar assembly may be configured to actuate (e.g., rotate about axes through the hinges <NUM> through a range of angles) to ensure universality with any height of aircraft cart <NUM>. For example, the angles may range from <NUM> degrees (e.g., as defined when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position) to greater than <NUM> degrees.

The bar assembly may include a mechanical detent to hold the bar assembly in the deployed position in addition to gravity. For example, the mechanical detent may be a physical structure requiring an increased amount of force to overcome in addition to a lifting force needed to raise the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> to the stowed position. By way of another example, the mechanical detent may include a friction spring or other spring-like component installed within or proximate to the one or more hinges <NUM>.

To maintain universality of the aircraft cart retention system, the bar assembly may include one or more separator bars <NUM>. The one or more separator bars <NUM> may be configured to separate a confined space for a full-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) into one or more smaller confined spaces for one or more reduced-size galley carts <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). The one or more separator bars <NUM> may be independently actuatable from the one or more primary bars <NUM> and/or the one or more auxiliary bars <NUM>. The one or more separator bars <NUM> may be configured to couple to the one or more primary bars <NUM> and/or the one or more auxiliary bars <NUM>. For example, the one or more separator bars <NUM> may include a hook <NUM> configured to couple to a mount point <NUM> on an auxiliary bar <NUM>. It is noted herein the hook <NUM> may be considered a first component of an interlocking assembly <NUM>, and the mount point <NUM> may be considered a second component of the interlocking assembly <NUM>. In addition, it is noted herein the aircraft art retention device <NUM> is not limited to the hook <NUM> and the mount point <NUM>, but may instead include any numbers of components for the interlocking assembly <NUM>. For example, the auxiliary bar <NUM> may include a set of collars surrounding the mount point <NUM> and configured to prevent the hook <NUM> from sliding on the auxiliary bar <NUM>.

It is noted herein the primary bars <NUM> and/or the auxiliary bars <NUM> may include a handle for an operator to interact with when the bar assembly actuate (e.g., rotates) between the stowed position and the deployed position, and vice versa.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be configured to stow within a corresponding cavity <NUM> (e.g., a groove, indentation, cut-out, or the like). The cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections configured to receive one or more components of the corresponding aircraft cart retention device <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position. For example, the cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections <NUM> configured to receive the one or more primary bars <NUM>. By way of another example, the cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections <NUM> configured to receive the one or more auxiliary bars <NUM>. By way of another example, the cavity <NUM> may include one or more sections <NUM> configured to receive the one or more separator bars <NUM>.

Although embodiments of the disclosure illustrate separate sections <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of a cavity <NUM>, it is noted herein at least some of the sections of the cavity <NUM> may be combined such that components of the corresponding aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may share a section of the cavity <NUM>. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

Referring now to <FIG>, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may retain a full-size aircraft cart <NUM>. The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may actuate (e.g., rotate) from a deployed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), through one or more intermediate positions (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), and to a stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). Although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may similarly actuate (e.g., rotate) from the stowed position, through the one or more intermediate positions, and to the deployed position.

Referring now to <FIG>, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> including the one or more separator bars <NUM> may retain a reduced-size aircraft cart <NUM>. The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> including the one or more separator bars <NUM> may actuate (e.g., rotate) from a deployed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) through one or more intermediate positions (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) to a stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). Although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may similarly actuate (e.g., rotate) from the stowed position, through the one or more intermediate positions, and to the deployed position.

It is noted herein retaining the aircraft cart <NUM> within the aircraft cart retention system may require the following steps: parking the aircraft cart <NUM>, pull down the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> (e.g., either with or without the one or more separator bars <NUM>, depending on the aircraft cart <NUM>). Although not shown, it should be understood the above order of steps is non-limiting, and that removing the aircraft cart <NUM> may require the steps in a reverse order from those listed above. In addition, it should be understood the above order of steps is non-limiting, and retaining and/or removing the aircraft cart <NUM> may require more or fewer steps performed in a same or different order than those listed above.

The cavity <NUM> may be partially or fully cut-out from the structure <NUM>. In general, the cavity <NUM> may be configured to receive a corresponding aircraft cart retention device <NUM> such that the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is inset within the structure <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). In this regard, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may not interfere (e.g., stick out into) a floor area of the aircraft cabin <NUM> when the aircraft cart <NUM> is not being retained by the aircraft cart retention device <NUM>. It is noted herein, however, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be configured to stow flush against the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>.

It is noted herein the primary bars <NUM>, the auxiliary bars <NUM>, the separator bars <NUM>, and the bar assembly may be considered primary members <NUM>, auxiliary members <NUM>, separator members <NUM>, and a member assembly, respectively, for purposes of the present disclosure.

<FIG> in general illustrate an aircraft cart retention device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a full aircraft cart <NUM>. In addition, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> interacting with a reduced-size aircraft cart <NUM>.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> includes a shaft <NUM> coupled to the structure <NUM>. For example, the shaft <NUM> may pass through a cut-out within the structure <NUM>. For instance, shaft <NUM> may be held within the cut-out via interfering components, brackets, or other mechanical components preventing the removal of the shaft <NUM> from the cut-out.

The shaft <NUM> may be set an angle relative to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>. For example, the shaft <NUM> may be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>. The shaft <NUM> may extend outward from the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM> (e.g., into a floor area of the aircraft cabin <NUM>) when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in a deployed position. The shaft <NUM> may be inserted into the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM> (e.g., into a floor area of the aircraft cabin <NUM>) when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in a stowed position.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> includes a latch <NUM> configured to retain the aircraft cart <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the deployed position. It is noted herein the shaft <NUM> and the latch <NUM> may be considered a shaft assembly, for purposes of the disclosure.

The latch <NUM> may be positioned at one or more locations against the retained aircraft cart <NUM> to ensure universality with any size and/or height of aircraft cart <NUM>. For example, the latch <NUM> may be configured to pass through openings within the aircraft cart <NUM> (e.g., openings formed by the aircraft cart <NUM> including handles). By way of another example, the latch <NUM> may be of a length configured to retain the aircraft cart <NUM> along the body of the aircraft cart <NUM> at one or more heights (e.g., an upper height, a lower height, and/or one or more intermediate heights). By way of another example, the latch <NUM> may be of a length configured to retain the aircraft cart <NUM> along the cart content door and/or the body of the aircraft cart <NUM> at one or more heights (e.g., an upper height, a lower height, and/or one or more intermediate heights).

The latch <NUM> may be configured to actuate (e.g., rotate about an axis through the shaft <NUM>) between a closed position and an open position. For example, the closed position may be a position in which the latch <NUM> retain the aircraft cart <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the deployed position. By way of another example, the open position may be a position in which the latch <NUM> allows the aircraft cart <NUM> to be moved from a position proximate to the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position.

The aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be configured to pass through the structure <NUM> into the monument <NUM> when translating between a deployed position and a stowed position. The latch <NUM> is configured to stow within a corresponding cavity <NUM> (e.g., a groove, an indentation, cut-out, or the like).

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, a set of four aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may retain a full-size aircraft cart <NUM>. Each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may actuate (e.g., translate) from a deployed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) to a stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). Although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may similarly actuate (e.g., translate) from the stowed position to the deployed position. In addition, although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be configured to actuate (e.g., translate) through one or more intermediate positions.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, a set of two aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may retain a reduced-size aircraft cart <NUM>. Each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may actuate (e.g., translate) from a deployed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>) to a stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>). Although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may similarly actuate (e.g., rotate) from the stowed position to the deployed position. In addition, although not shown, it should be understood each aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be configured to actuate (e.g., translate) through one or more intermediate positions.

To maintain universality of the aircraft cart retention system, at least three aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> may need to be installed within the aircraft cabin <NUM>. For example, a first aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed for both a short a full-size or a reduced-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), a second aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed for a full-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>), and a third aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may be installed for a reduced-size galley cart <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>). It is noted herein, however, the aircraft cart retention system is not limited to the three aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG>), but instead may include any number of aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>.

It is noted herein retaining the aircraft cart <NUM> within the aircraft cart retention system may require the following steps: pull out the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM> specific to the aircraft cart <NUM> size (e.g., wide or narrow), park the aircraft cart <NUM>, and turn the latches <NUM> specific to the aircraft cart <NUM> height (e.g., tall or short). Although not shown, it should be understood the above order of steps is non-limiting, and that removing the aircraft cart <NUM> may require the steps in a reverse order from those listed above. In addition, it should be understood the above order of steps is non-limiting, and retaining and/or removing the aircraft cart <NUM> may require more or fewer steps performed in a same or different order than those listed above.

The cavity <NUM> may be partially or fully cut-out from the structure <NUM>. In general, the cavity <NUM> may be configured to receive a corresponding latch <NUM> such that the latch <NUM> is inset within the structure <NUM> when the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> is in the stowed position (e.g., as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>). In this regard, the aircraft cart retention device <NUM> may not interfere (e.g., stick out into) a floor area of the aircraft cabin <NUM> when the aircraft cart <NUM> is not being retained by the aircraft cart retention device <NUM>. It is noted herein, however, the latch <NUM> may be configured to stow flush against the exterior surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>.

It is noted herein the shaft <NUM> and the shaft assembly may be considered a member <NUM> and a member assembly, respectively, for purposes of the present disclosure.

It is noted herein components installed within the aircraft cabin <NUM>, the aircraft cart <NUM>, and/or the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may need to be configured in accordance with aviation guidelines and/or standards set forth by, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) or any other flight certification agency or organization; the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated (ARINC), SAE International, or any other standards setting organization or company; the Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA) or any other guidelines agency or organization; or the like. For instance, SAE International's Aerospace Standard (AS) <NUM>, MINIMUM DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE OF AIRPLANE GALLEY IN-FLIGHT CARTS, CONTAINERS, AND ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS, and EASA's European Technical Standard Order (ETSO) C175, GALLEY CART, CONTAINERS AND ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS sets forth requirements for galley carts, containers and associated components.

In this regard, the retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are lightweight mechanisms to replace a strap or chain. The retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are a more secure approach to retaining the galley cart <NUM>. In addition, the retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> offer an aesthetically appealing alternative to the strap or chain. Further, the retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> provide a simple and intuitive retention and release function.

Although embodiments of the disclosure illustrate the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> being installed within the aircraft cabin <NUM>, it is noted herein, however, that the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and/or components of the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are not limited to the aviation environment and/or the aircraft components within the aviation environment. For example, the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and/or components of the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured for any type of vehicle known in the art. For instance, the vehicle may be any air, space, land, or water-based personal equipment or vehicle; any air, space, land, or water-based commercial equipment or vehicle; any air, space, land, or water-based military equipment or vehicle known in the art. By way of another example, the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and/or components of the aircraft cart retention devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured for commercial or industrial use in either a home or a business. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as a limitation on the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

Claim 1:
An aircraft cart retention system, comprising:
a structure (<NUM>) configured to be installed within an aircraft cabin;
a first aircraft cart retention device (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to actuate between a first deployed position and a first stowed position, the first aircraft cart retention device comprising:
at least one member (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the structure (<NUM>); and
at least one latch (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the at least one member; and
a second aircraft cart retention device (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to actuate between a second deployed position and a second stowed position, the second aircraft cart retention device comprising:
at least an additional member (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the structure installed within the aircraft cabin; and
at least an additional latch (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the at least an additional member
the first aircraft cart retention device and the second aircraft cart retention device configured to retain an aircraft cart in a position proximate to an exterior surface of the structure with at least two combined points of contact during non-taxi, takeoff, or landing, non-TTL, stages of flight when the first aircraft cart retention device is in the first deployed position and the second aircraft cart retention device is in the second deployed position,
the first aircraft cart retention device and the second aircraft cart retention device configured to allow the aircraft cart to be removed from the position proximate to the exterior surface of the structure when the first aircraft cart retention device is in the first stowed position and the second aircraft cart retention device is in the second stowed position; and characterized by:
the structure having a first cavity (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to receive the first aircraft cart retention device when the first aircraft cart retention device is in the first stowed position, the first aircraft cart retention device being configured to be at least partially inset within the first cavity when the first aircraft cart retention device is in the first stowed position,
the structure including a second cavity (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to receive the second aircraft cart retention device when the second aircraft cart retention device is in the second stowed position, the second aircraft cart retention device configured to be at least partially inset within the second cavity when the second aircraft cart retention device is in the second stowed position.