Abstract:
A device for accommodating objects, in particular for use in an airplane, comprises at least one panel. The panel has at least one outer edge which is provided with a rim in order to form a shock-absorbing edge. The rim comprises plastic that is integrally molded onto the outer edge of the panel. The device can be an airplane trolley, folding trolley, container or galley.
Abstract:
In a craft such as a passenger aircraft, an apparatus is provided for storing and retrieving service trolleys (110) in a craft having a passenger deck (150) and a cargo bay. The apparatus can comprise a container (101) located in the cargo bay (100) and configured to hold at least one service trolley (110). The apparatus can also comprise a pillar (102) located on the passenger deck, and the pillar can be configured to receive at least one service trolley. The apparatus can also comprise a lift (103) configured to move the at least one service trolley between the container and the pillar. The apparatus can use the electricity, heat, and by-products from an integrated fuel cell system (106) to power a trolley distribution system and fulfill catering purposes, like heating and cooling.
Abstract:
Disclosed are crew rests that may be powered by the outputs of a fuel cell system or other suitable power source. For example, but not limited to, a combination of the water, oxygen-depleted air, thermal energy and/or electrical energy generated by the fuel cell system may be used to supply the crew rest with its various power and water needs, helping to make the crew rest autonomous from the aircraft's main power systems.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to improved cooling systems and methods for use on aircraft trolleys (12) and compartments. The systems use absorptive cooling with thermal conductive plates (18) strategically positioned in order to keep trolleys (12) and their contents cooled.
Abstract:
Autonomous trolleys include an integrated power source, which energy can be utilized for integrated trolley systems such as a wheel assist module, heating module, and cooling module. The power source may include a fuel cell system or a rechargeable electrical energy storage device or a combination thereof. The rechargeable electrical energy storage device can be charged by any other power source, including a fuel cell system. The trolley can also be equipped with a fuel tank for easy and safe refueling of a fuel cell system.
Abstract:
Described are power management systems having at least one fuel cell system, a power distribution unit, at least one galley insert, a galley network controller, a control panel, and/or at least one battery pack. The power management system compares a power output from the power distribution unit to a maximum load level and/or to a minimum load level, instructs the galley network controller to cycle the galley insert off and/or set an operation of the galley insert to a lower power consumption level when the power output approaches and/or is above the maximum load level, and instructs the galley network controller to cycle the galley insert on and/or set the operation of the galley insert to a higher power consumption level when the power output approaches and/or is below the minimum load level.