Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
1
MODULAR LAVATORY WITH ALCOVE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[00011 The present invention relates generally to aircraft lavatories and
more particularly
to a modular aircraft lavatory with an alcove.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Commercial aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737, are
typically
constructed from modular components, the size, weight and construction of
which are
dictated by many considerations, including fuselage dimensions, aesthetic and
safety.
Many of these requirements are imposed by law or regulation. Aircraft
components,
such as overhead stowage compartments, seats, lavatories, galleys, lighting
systems,
etc. are all required to function within strictly confined spaces.
[0003] Manufacturers of aircraft are constantly refining interior aircraft
designs to
achieve more comfort and utility for passengers and crew within carrier-
imposed
restraints on cost, weight, maintenance down-time, and safety. Commercial
passenger
aircraft generally include lavatories for use by passengers and crew.
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[0005] A conventional lavatory has a rectangular footprint, a toilet, and a
sink. It usually
also has four composite panel walls that may be molded to fit the curvature of
the plane,
and a ceiling with built in lighting. The lavatory monument is secured to the
aircraft via
various tie-rods and brackets, and is designed to independently conform to FAA
loading
standards. Lavatories have been a standard monument on commercial aircraft for
decades.
Lavatory monuments are typically constructed as a unit and then installed in
an aircraft.
After use, the conventional lavatory monument is then removed as a unit from
the aircraft
and replaced.
SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0006] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention there is
provided a modular
lavatory monument assembly that includes first, second, third and fourth walls
that
cooperate to form an outer shell that defines a lavatory interior. The fourth
wall includes
an alcove extending outwardly therefrom. The assembly also includes a sink
module
positioned in the alcove, a mirror module positioned above the sink module in
the alcove,
and a door positioned on one of the second or third walls. In a preferred
embodiment, the
fourth wall includes first, second and third portions. The first portion is
connected to the
second wall, the third portion is connected to the first wall and the second
portion extends
between and is not parallel with the first and third portions. The alcove is
defined by the
first and second portions of the fourth wall and part of the first wall.
Preferably, the outer
shell includes a floor and the alcove extends from the floor to the top of the
fourth wall.
The outer shell preferably includes a ceiling and the alcove extends from the
floor to the
ceiling. In a preferred embodiment, when the modular lavatory monument
assembly is
placed proximate an aircraft exit door that defines an aircraft exit path the
alcove extends
into the aircraft exit path and an assist space is defined between the second
portion of the
fourth wall and the exit door.
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[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the modular lavatory monument assembly
also includes a
toilet module positioned in the lavatory interior and secured to at least one
of the first, third
or fourth walls. The sink module preferably includes a sink cabinet, a faucet,
a sink bowl,
a counter, a waste compartment, a water supply system, a toilet paper
dispensing unit and a
set of mounting components on the sink cabinet that are removably mounted to
associated
mounting components in the alcove. The mirror module preferably includes a
mirror
cabinet, a mirror, a paper towel dispensing unit, a flight attendant call
button, and a set of
mounting components on the mirror cabinet that are removably mounted to
associated
mounting components in the alcove. The toilet module preferably includes a
shroud, a
toilet bowl, a scat and a lid. The shroud includes mounting components thereon
that arc
removably secured to mounting components on the first, third or fourth walls.
In a
preferred embodiment, the modular lavatory monument assembly also includes a
ceiling
module positioned in the lavatory interior that includes a housing, an oxygen
generator, at
least one oxygen mask, a speaker, a smoke detector and a set of mounting
components on
the housing that are removably mounted to associated mounting components on
the outer
shell.
[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell further includes a
storage compartment
positioned adjacent the alcove that is at least partially defined by an outer
surface of the
second portion of the fourth wall and an outer surface of the third portion of
the fourth
wall. Preferably, the storage compartment is further defined by a first
exterior wall that is
connected to the first wall and a second exterior wall that is connected to
the first portion
of the fourth wall. The storage compat tment is further defined by a first
exterior wall that
is co-planar with the first wall and a second exterior wall that is co-planar
with the first
portion of the fourth wall.
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[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the sink module, mirror module, toilet
module and
ceiling module are each removably secured to the outer shell independently,
and each of
the sink module, mirror module, toilet module and ceiling module can be
removed from
the outer shell without having to remove any other of the sink module, mirror
module,
toilet module or ceiling module.
[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the modular lavatory monument assembly is
provided in
combination with a business class seat shell, and the fourth wall of the outer
shell defines a
foot recess in an exterior surface thereof
[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is
provided a
modular lavatory monument assembly that includes first, second, third and
fourth walls
that cooperate to form an outer shell that defines a lavatory interior and a
storage
compartment that is defined by a first storage compartment wall extending
inwardly from
the fourth wall and a second storage compartment wall extending inwardly from
the first
wall. The first and second storage compartment walls are connected and an
alcove is
defined by the first storage compartment wall, the fourth wall and the second
wall. The
first storage compartment wall separates the alcove and the storage
compartment. The
assembly also includes a sink module positioned in the alcove, a mirror module
positioned
above the sink module in the alcove, and a door positioned on one of the
second or third
walls. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell includes a floor and a
ceiling, and the
alcove and the storage compartment extend from the floor to the ceiling.
Preferably, the
modular lavatory monument assembly further includes a toilet module that
includes a toilet
and a shroud that extends between the second storage compartment wall and the
third wall.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is
provided a
modular dual lavatory monument assembly that includes first, second, third and
fourth
walls that cooperate to form an outer shell that defines an interior, and a
fifth wall that
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divides the interior into first and second lavatories. The outer shell
includes first and
second alcoves that extend between the first and second walls to form an
alcove strip. The
assembly also includes a first sink module positioned in the first alcove, a
first minor
module positioned above the first sink module in the first alcove, a first
door positioned on
one of the first or third walls, a second sink module positioned in the second
alcove, a
second minor module positioned above the second sink module in the second
alcove, and a
second door positioned on one of the second or fourth walls. In a preferred
embodiment,
the fifth wall includes first, second and third portions. The first portion is
connected to the
first wall, the third portion is connected to the second wall, and the second
portion extends
between and is not parallel with the first and third portions, wherein the
first alcove is
defined in the first lavatory between the first wall and the third portion of
the fifth wall and
the second alcove is defined in the second lavatory between the second wall
and the third
portion of the fifth wall. Preferably, the first and second sink modules face
in opposite
directions and the assembly includes a first toilet module positioned adjacent
the second
wall and a second toilet module positioned adjacent the first wall.
10013] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a
modular quad lavatory monument assembly that includes first, second, third and
fourth
walls that cooperate to form an outer shell that defines an interior, and
fifth, sixth and
seventh walls that cooperate to divide the interior into first, second, third
and fourth
lavatories. The outer shell includes first, second, third and fourth alcoves
that extend
between the first and second walls to form an alcove strip. The assembly also
includes a
first sink module positioned in the first alcove, a first mirror module
positioned above the
first sink module in the first alcove, a second sink module positioned in the
second alcove,
a second mirror module positioned above the second sink module in the second
alcove, a
third sink module positioned in the third alcove, a third mirror module
positioned above
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the third sink module in the third alcove, a fourth sink module positioned in
the fourth
alcove, and a fourth mirror module positioned above the fourth sink module in
the fourth
alcove. In a preferred embodiment, the seventh wall extends between the third
and fourth
walls, and the fifth wall includes first, second and third portions. The first
portion of the
fifth wall is connected to the first wall, the third portion is connected to
the seventh wall,
and the second portion extends between and is not parallel with the first and
third portions.
The sixth wall includes first, second and third portions. The first portion of
the sixth wall
is connected to the second wall, the third portion is connected to the seventh
wall, and the
second portion extends between and is not parallel with the first and third
portions. The
first alcove is defined in the first lavatory between the first wall and the
third portion of the
fifth wall, the second alcove is defined in the second lavatory between the
seventh wall and
the third portion of the fifth wall, the third alcove is defined in the third
lavatory between
the second wall and the third portion of the sixth wall, and the fourth alcove
is defined in
the fourth lavatory between the seventh wall and the third portion of the
sixth wall.
Preferably, the first and third sink modules face in a first direction and the
second and
fourth sink modules face in a second direction that is opposite the first
direction. In a
preferred embodiment, the first portion of the fifth wall is co-planar and
parallel to the first
portion of the sixth wall, and the third portion of the fifth wall is co-
planar and parallel to
the third portion of the sixth wall.
[00141 In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a
method of assembling a modular lavatory monument assembly. The method includes
providing a first outer shell that includes first, second, third and fourth
walls that cooperate
to define a lavatory interior. The fourth wall includes an alcove extending
outwardly
therefrom, and a door is positioned on one of the second or third walls. The
method
further includes removably securing a first sink module in the alcove, and
removably
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securing a first mirror module above the sink module in the alcove. In a
preferred
embodiment, the method includes the step of removably securing a first toilet
module to
one or more of the first, third or fourth walls. Preferably, the first toilet
module does not
contact the first sink module. In a preferred embodiment, the method includes
the step of
removing the first sink module from the alcove and lavatory interior, and
removably
securing a second sink module in the alcove. Preferably, the second sink
module includes
a sink cabinet, a faucet, a sink bowl, a counter, a waste compartment, a water
supply
system, a toilet paper dispensing unit and a set of mounting components on the
sink cabinet
that are removably mounted to associated mounting components in the alcove,
just like the
first sink module.
[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the steps of removing
the first sink
module, first mirror module and first toilet module from the lavatory
interior, cleaning the
outer shell, removably securing the first sink module in the alcove a second
time,
removably securing the first toilet within the lavatory interior a second
time, and
removably securing the first mirror module above the sink module in the alcove
a second
time. In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the steps of removing the
first sink
module, first mirror module and first toilet module from the lavatory
interior, cleaning the
outer shell, removably securing a second sink module in the alcove, removably
securing a
second toilet module to one or more of the first, third or fourth walls, and
removably
securing a second mirror module above the sink module in the alcove.
[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of removing
the first toilet
module from the lavatory interior, adding an extension to at least one of the
first, second,
third or fourth walls to provide an outer shell with a larger volume than the
first outer shell,
and removably securing either the original toilet module or a new toilet
module in the
lavatory.
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[0017] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is
provided a method
that includes providing a first outer shell that includes first, second, third
and fourth walls
that cooperate to define a first lavatory interior. The fourth wall includes
an alcove
extending outwardly therefrom. A door is positioned on one of the second or
third walls.
The method also includes providing a second outer shell that includes first,
second, third
and fourth walls that cooperate to define a second lavatory interior. The
fourth wall of the
second outer shell includes an alcove extending outwardly therefrom and a door
is
positioned on one of the second or third walls. In the method, the second
lavatory interior
has a different volume than the first lavatory interior. In other words, the
outer shells are
made for two different types of lavatory monument assemblies. The method also
includes
removably securing a first sink module in the alcove of the first outer shell,
removably
securing a first mirror module above the first sink module in the alcove of
the first outer
shell to form a first lavatory monument assembly, removably securing a second
sink
module in the alcove of the second outer shell, and removably securing a
second mirror
module above the second sink module in the alcove of the second outer shell to
form a
second lavatory monument assembly. The first and second sink modules are
identical, and
the first and second mirror modules are identical. The method also includes
installing the
first lavatory monument assembly in a first location in an aircraft, and
installing the second
lavatory monument assembly in a second location in an aircraft.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the first lavatory monument assembly is
positioned
proximate an aircraft exit door that defines an aircraft exit path, and the
alcove of the first
lavatory monument assembly extends into the aircraft exit path. Preferably,
the method
also includes the steps of removing the first sink module and first mirror
module from the
first lavatory interior, removing the second sink module and second mirror
module from
the second lavatory interior, removably securing a third sink module and a
third mirror
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module in the alcove of the first outer shell, and removably securing a fourth
sink module
and a fourth mirror module in the alcove of the second outer shell. The third
and fourth
sink modules are identical, and the third and fourth mirror modules are
identical.
Preferably, the steps of removing the first and second mirror and sink modules
and
removably securing the third and fourth mirror and sink modules are performed
without
removing the first or second outer shells from the aircraft.
[0019] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention there is
provided a lavatory
monument assembly configured to be positioned in the interior of an aircraft
that includes a
first wall and a second wall that are generally parallel to one another, and
the second wall
is longer than the first wall. The lavatory monument assembly further includes
a third wall
and a fourth wall, and the third wall and the fourth wall generally are
perpendicular to the
first wall and the second wall, and the third wall and the fourth wall connect
to the first
wall and the second wall to form a lavatory interior. The first portion of the
fourth wall
generally is parallel to the third wall, and a second portion of the fourth
wall angles
inwardly along generally straight lines into the lavatory interior, such that
the area in the
lavatory interior proximate the first wall is less than the area proximate the
second wall.
The lavatory monument assembly further includes a toilet in the lavatory
interior
proximate the first wall, and it further includes a door positioned on one of
the first,
second, third, or fourth walls. In a preferred embodiment, the lavatory
monument
assembly further includes a sink, and preferably, the first wall is generally
parallel and
adjacent to an interior aircraft wall when the lavatory monument assembly is
placed
proximate an aircraft exit door. Preferably, the lavatory monument is placed
proximate a
row of at least two aircraft seats. Preferably, the second portion of the
fourth wall angles
inwardly at about 90 degrees with respect to the first portion of the fourth
wall to form an
alcove proximate the second wall, and the second portion of the fourth wall
further
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connects to a third portion of the fourth wall that is generally parallel to
the third wall and
that connects to the first wall. The sink is positioned in the alcove. In a
preferred
embodiment, the second portion of the fourth wall curves inwardly along a
generally
curved line instead of angling inwardly along generally straight lines, and
preferably, the
lavatory monument assembly further comprises at least one recessed seat on the
fourth
wall, proximate the second wall. Preferably, the toilet defines a vertical
plane that
bifurcates the toilet, and the toilet is positioned such that the vertical
plane is not parallel to
the third wall.
[0020] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is
provided an
aircraft with a cabin having a side wall that includes at least one exit door,
wherein the exit
door includes an exit corridor adjacent thereto. The aircraft also includes a
lavatory
monument assembly positioned within the cabin, wherein the lavatory monument
assembly
includes a first wall and a second wall, and the first wall generally is
parallel to the second
wall, and the second wall is longer than the first wall. The lavatory monument
assembly
also includes a third wall and a fourth wall, and the third wall and the
fourth wall generally
are perpendicular to the first wall and the second wall. The third wall and
the fourth wall
connect to the first wall and the second wall to form a lavatory interior, and
a first portion
of the fourth wall generally is parallel to the third wall, and a second
portion of the fourth
wall angles inwardly along generally straight lines into the lavatory
interior, such that the
area in the lavatory interior proximate the first wall is less than the area
proximate the
second wall. The lavatory monument assembly also includes a toilet in the
lavatory
interior proximate the first wall, and it includes a door positioned on one of
the first,
second, third, or fourth walls. In a preferred embodiment, the lavatory
monument
assembly further includes a sink. Preferably, the second portion of the fourth
wall angles
inwardly at about 90 degrees with respect to the first portion of the fourth
wall to form an
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alcove proximate the second wall, and the second portion of the fourth wall
further
connects to a third portion of the fourth wall that generally is parallel to
the third wall and
that connects to the first wall. The sink is positioned in the alcove.
Preferably, the
lavatory monument assembly is positioned proximate the exit door, and the
third portion of
the fourth wall defines a portion of the exit corridor. Preferably, the
lavatory monument
assembly is placed proximate a row of at least two aircraft seats. In a
preferred
embodiment, the second portion of the fourth wall curves inwardly along a
generally
curved line instead of angling inwardly along generally straight lines, and
preferably, the
lavatory monument assembly further includes at least one recessed seat on the
fourth wall,
proximate the second wall. Preferably, the toilet defines a vertical plane
that bifurcates the
toilet, and the toilet is positioned such that the vertical plane is not
parallel to the third
wall. Preferably, the lavatory monument assembly is positioned proximate the
exit door,
and the third portion of the fourth wall defines a portion of the exit
corridor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a lavatory monument assembly in
accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG 2 is a top plan view of a potential layout within an aircraft of
the lavatory
monument assembly shown in FIG. 1, including the lavatory monument assembly
position
with respect to aircraft exits;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the lavatory monument assembly of FIG.
1 positioned
in an aircraft and showing a comparison with a conventional lavatory monument;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a lavatory monument assembly in
accordance with
another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
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[0025] FIG. 5 a top plan view of a lavatory monument assembly in accordance
with
another preferred embodiment of the present invention positioned in an
aircraft and
showing a comparison with a conventional lavatory monument;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the lavatory monument assembly of FIG.
5 positioned
in an aircraft with a flight attendant seat thereon and showing a comparison
with a
conventional lavatory monument;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a lavatory monument in accordance with
another
preferred embodiment of the present invention positioned in an aircraft with
two flight
attendant seats thereon and showing a comparison with a conventional lavatory
monument;
[0028] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the lavatory monument assembly of
FIG. 5;
[0029] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the lavatory monument assembly of
FIG. 5 with
the sink and mirror modules removed;
[0030] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the lavatory monument assembly of FIG.
7 showing the
toilet space and personal space created by the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a modular lavatory
monument assembly
in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of
FIG. 10 with the modules outside of the outer shell prior to assembly;
[0033] FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of
FIG. 11A after assembly;
[0034] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of
FIG. 10 with the modules outside of the outer shell prior to assembly and
showing the
mounting components on the modules;
[0035] FIG. 12B is an exploded perspective view of the modules ready to be
mounted on
the outer shell;
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[0036] FIG. 13 is an elevational view of the a lavatory monument assembly
with the
second wall removed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present
invention;
[0037] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of a modular lavatory monument assembly
with a
storage compartment in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present
invention;
[0038] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of FIG.
13;
[0039] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the modular lavatory monument assembly
of FIG. 13
with a door on both the inside and the outside of the storage compartment;
[0040] FIG. 17 is a top plan view a lavatory monument assembly unitary with
the seat
shell of a business class seat in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the
present invention;
[0041] FIG. 18 is an inside perspective view of the lavatory monument
assembly of FIG.
16;
[0042] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of a comparison between a pair of prior
art aircraft center
lavatories and a dual lavatory monument assembly in accordance with another
preferred
embodiment of the present invention; and
[0043] FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a quad lavatory monument assembly in
accordance
with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 21 is a top plan view of another quad lavatory monument
assembly in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 22 is a top plan view of a another quad lavatory monument
assembly in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
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[0046] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of FIG. 10
after it has been in use and has become dirty;
[0047] FIG. 23B is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of FIG. 23A
with the modules outside of the outer shell so the outer shell and modules can
be cleaned;
[0048] FIG. 23C is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly of FIG. 23A
after it has been reassembled post cleaning;
[0049] FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a modular lavatory monument
assembly outer shell
after removal of the modules;
[0050] FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly outer shell
of FIG. 24A after extensions have been added;
[0051] FIG. 24C is a perspective view of the modular lavatory monument
assembly outer shell
of FIG. 24B after the modules have been positioned therein;
[0052] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a modular lavatory monument
assembly and showing the
enlargement and modification possibilities;
[0053] FIG. 26 is a plan view of the forward portion of an aircraft with a
plurality of lavatory
monument assemblies therein; and
[0054] FIG. 27 is a plan view of the aft portion of the same aircraft as
FIG. 26 with a plurality of
lavatory monument assemblies therein.
[0055] Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of
the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0056] The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not
to be construed as
limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough
understanding of the
disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details
are not described
in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an
embodiment
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in the present disclosure can be, but are not necessarily, references to the
same
embodiment; and, such references are intended to refer to at least one of the
embodiments.
[0057] Reference in this specification to "one embodiment" or "an
embodiment" means that
a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection
with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the-disclosure. The
appearances of
the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not
necessarily
all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative
embodiments
mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are
described which
may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various
requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but
not
other embodiments.
[0058] The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary
meanings in the art,
within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each
term is used.
Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or
elsewhere in
the specification, to provide additional guidance to one of skill in the art
regarding the
description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be
highlighted, for
example using italics andJor quotation marks. The use of any such highlighting
has no
influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term
is the
same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted.
[0059] It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than
one way.
Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or
more of the
terms discussed herein. No special significance is to be placed upon whether
or not a term
is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A
recital of
one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of
examples
anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed
herein is
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illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning
of the
disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited
to various
embodiments given in this specification.
[0060] Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure,
examples of instruments,
apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of
the present
disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the
examples for
convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the
disclosure. Unless
otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the
same meaning as
commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this
disclosure pertains.
In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will
control.
[0061] It will be appreciated that terms such as "front," "back," "top,"
"bottom," "side,"
"short," "long," "up," "down," "aft," "forward," "inboard," "outboard" and
"below" used
herein are merely for ease of description and refer to the orientation of the
components as
shown in the figures. It should be understood that any orientation of the
components
described herein is within the scope of the present invention.
[0062] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes
of illustrating
the present invention and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIGS. 1-3
show an aircraft
lavatory monument assembly 10 that provides an angled toilet 12 orientation, a
generally
V-shaped passenger footprint 14 and a door 40. In a preferred embodiment, the
lavatory
monument assembly includes first wall 28, second wall 30, third wall 31 and
fourth wall
26 (as well as ceiling 33, which can be omitted).
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, in a preferred embodiment, fourth wall 26
includes a first
portion 26a and a second portion 26b that is curved. In other words, in this
embodiment,
the lavatory monument assembly 10 does not have a rectangular footprint. As
can be seen
in FIG. 2, the toilet defines a vertical plane P1 that bifurcates the toilet,
and the toilet is
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positioned such that the vertical plane P1 is not parallel to at least the
third wall 31 (see
FIG. 2 and angle 0). The angled toilet 12 orientation and generally V-shaped
passenger
footprint allow for increased comfort in a smaller footprint lavatory when
compared to the
prior art. This is achieved by having the minimum lavatory width in the rear
of the toilet
(see first wall 28), and having broader dimensions in front of the toilet (see
second wall
30), as shown in FIG. 2 and in another preferred embodiment depicted in FIG.
4.
Conventional lavatory monuments generally have a rectangular footprint. The
increased
passenger footprint can also be achieved by providing a toilet 12 that is
positioned such
that it is angled, as is best shown in FIG. 2. In other words, the toilet 12
is angled such that
a vertical plane that bifurcates the toilet 12 is non-parallel to and forms an
angle with the
forward wall of the lavatory monument assembly (when positioned as shown in
FIG. 1).
This allows a passenger seated on the toilet 12 to use the extra space created
by the curved
fourth wall 26. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention,
and the toilet can
be positioned such that it faces straight inboard. FIG. 2 shows a potential
layout plan of
the lavatory monument assembly 10, as described above, within an aircraft.
[0064] FIG. 3 shows a comparison of a conventional lavatory monument 200 to
the lavatory
monument assembly 10 of the present invention and shows the possible space
savings and
ability for an airline to add a row or more of seats, while providing
sufficient space in front
of exit door 34 for ingress and egress in compliance with applicable FAA
regulations.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 3, with the arrangement of the present invention
lavatory
monument assembly 10, a suitable amount of exit space is provided between the
aft wall of
the lavatory monument assembly 10 and the wall (or row of seats or other
object) aft
thereof. With the footprint of the lavatory monument assembly 10, the entire
lavatory
monument assembly 10 can be positioned aft of where the conventional lavatory
monument was positioned. As is shown in FIG. 3, the second portion 26b allows
fourth
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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wall 26 to curve around the exit door. By positioning the lavatory monument
assembly 10
aft of where the prior art monument is positioned and reducing the exit space
(but still
allowing enough under regulations), an extra row of seats can be added.
[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates a possible layout of the lavatory monument
assembly in an aircraft,
including the lavatory monument assembly with respect to aircraft exits 34,
showing the
intended space saving results that can be achieved in accordance with the
present
invention. As a result of the space savings, aircraft may be able to fit
additional scats,
thereby gaining revenue, increased seat pitches, or additional monuments
forward of the
lavatory.
[0067] FIGS. 4-5 show another preferred embodiment for achieving the
additional space by
having a smaller lavatory width in the rear of the toilet (see first wall 28),
than the broader
dimensions in front of the toilet (see second wall 30) (as shown in FIG. 3,
and as can also
be seen in FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 4, the additional space that is achieved
can be used
for creating a compartment or alcove 38 that can include a fixture or
component therein.
In a preferred embodiment, a sink 32 is positioned in alcove 38. However, this
is not a
limitation on the present invention. Placement of the sink 32 in this position
may be
desirable in some embodiments of the present invention because it allows
additional
passenger room in the lavatory in the area immediately in front of the toilet
12. And, as
described above, placement of sink 32 in this position is possible due to the
overall broader
dimensions of second wall 30 as compared to first wall 28. It will be
appreciated that in
another embodiment, the first wall 28 may have broader/longer dimensions than
the second
wall 30 or they may be of equal length. Furthermore, by positioning the sink
32 in alcove
38, shoulder room is preserved in the area immediately around the toilet 12.
[0068] It is contemplated and intended that the preferred embodiment
depicted in FIG. 4
include a door positioned on one of the walls of the lavatory monument
assembly, similar
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or identical to the door 40 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIG. 4, in
a preferred
embodiment, fourth wall 26 includes first portion 26a, second portion 26b and
third portion
26c. First portion 26a, second portion 26b and a portion of second wall 30
cooperate to
define alcove 38. In a preferred embodiment, sink 32 is positioned within
alcove 38 such
that the sink and any related components (e.g., drain, cabinet, mirror, etc.)
are all
positioned within the alcove 38.
[0069] FIGS. 4-5 also shows the flight attendant assist space 36 that is
required on most
aircraft. FIG. 4 shows that the assist space 36 is preserved by positioning
the alcove 38
inboard of first wall 28 and the exit 34. This allows the lavatory monument
assembly 10 to
be positioned as aft as possible (when in the back of an aircraft) to maximize
seating. The
curved wall discussed above provides the same advantage.
[0070] In the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 4-5, the space
immediately in front
of/adjacent to the exit of the aircraft is sufficient under FAA regulations.
Where the walls
comprising alcove 38 are depicted in FIG. 4 as being generally at right
angles, it is
contemplated and intended that the angles of the walls used to form alcove 38
could range
anywhere from 0 to 90 degrees. Moreover, while FIG. 4 is a plan view depicting
generally
straight lines for the walls of the lavatory monument assembly, it is
contemplated and
intended that the walls, when depicted in a perspective view, need not
necessarily be along
straight lines in the vertical, but alternatively can be shaped according to
the interior of the
aircraft or other factors and considerations commonly known to those of skill
in the art (as
can be seen, for example, and not by way of limitation), in the perspective
views of the
lavatory monument assembly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). Those of ordinary skill in
the art
should understand that the claim language referring to parallel and
perpendicular and the
like refers to the plan view of the lavatory monument assembly and any
aircraft LOPA in
which it is positioned.
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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[0071] FIGS. 4-27 generally show embodiments of lavatory monument
assemblies that
include a compal __ intent or alcove 38, as discussed above with respect to
FIGS. 4-5. FIGS.
4-13 show an L-shaped lavatory monument assembly 10 with a single lavatory
space
therein that includes space outside thereof for flight attendant assist or for
other use (e.g., a
compartment). In a preferred embodiment, the alcove 38 extends from the floor
to the
ceiling.
[0072] FIG. 5 shows a comparison between a conventional lavatory 200 and a
lavatory
monument assembly 10 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. In a preferred embodiment, some to all of the systems components
are
positioned in the alcove 38 (e.g., within the sink and mirror modules). As
shown in FIG. 5,
compared to the conventional lavatory 200, the lavatory monument assembly 10
provides
saved space (see S1 in FIG. 5), which can lead to the inclusion of an extra
row. In an
exemplary embodiment, this can be as much as twelve inches or more. In this
configuration, with the inclusion of the alcove 38, the flight attendant
assist space 36
adjacent the exit door 34 is maintained. In the conventional lavatory 200, the
sink and
counter extend the entire width of the lavatory. In lavatory monument assembly
10, the
sink module 42 is positioned in alcove 38, thereby taking advantage of the
space occupied
by the extended counter in the conventional lavatory 200. In other words, by
shrinking the
extended counter and cabinet in the conventional lavatory 200, space can be
provided for
assist space or for storage space. Furthermore, as will be appreciated by
those of ordinary
skill in the art, when positioned next to the exit door 34, the alcove 38
extends into an area
of space that is typically not used in most aircraft. Placing the sink module
42 and mirror
module 46 in the alcove 38 allows the manufacturer to be able to control size
(by being to
change all walls outside of the alcove as desired), provides separate personal
space and
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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toilet space, separates the toilet and the sink/counter so that they are not
in contact with one
another and provides more usable storage (see FIG. 14 below).
[0073] FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a lavatory monument assembly 10
that is
similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, but that includes a flight
attendant seat 16 on
the fourth wall 26, and particularly on the first portion 26a of the fourth
wall (i.e., on the
outside of the alcove 38). In this embodiment, the lavatory monument assembly
10 is
moved aft compared to the conventional lavatory 200. As shown in FIG. 6,
compared to
the conventional lavatory 200, the lavatory monument assembly 10 provides
saved space
(see S2 in FIG. 6), which can lead to the inclusion of an extra row. In an
exemplary
embodiment, this can be as much as six inches or more.
[0074] FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of a lavatory monument assembly 10
that is
similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, but that includes two
flight attendant
seats 16 on the fourth wall 26, and particularly on the first and third
portions 26a and 26c
of the fourth wall 26. In this embodiment, the lavatory monument assembly 10
is more
spacious (e.g., wider forward to aft) compared to the conventional lavatory 10
(see arrows
W1 and W2 in FIG. 7, where W1 is longer than W2). It will be appreciated by
those of
skill in the art that the conventional lavatory 200 footprint is rectangular
and includes a
double flight attendant seat 16 as shown in FIG. 7. However, by breaking this
traditional
footprint and providing the L-shaped lavatory with an alcove 38, as shown in
FIG. 7, the
flight attendant seats can be separate units and volume can be gained in the
lavatory, as
compared to the conventional lavatory. In another embodiment, the lavatory
shown in
FIG. 7 can omit the flight attendant seats.
[0075] In a preferred embodiment, many of the lavatory systems components
(plumbing,
controls for water, etc.) are positioned within the sink unit or module 42.
The sink module
42 can include (but is not limited to) the sink 32, counter 48, back splash,
faucet 92, water
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heater, water filter, plumbing, pipes, sink cabinet or enclosure 41,
thermostat unit,
controllers, electrical harnesses, valves, space for waste, etc. As is shown
in FIGS. 8A-8B,
in a preferred embodiment, the sink module 42 can be fitted within alcove 38
as a unit. In
a preferred embodiment, the lavatory monument assembly 10 also includes a
minor
module 46. The mirror module 46 can include (but is not limited to) a mirror
100 and a
mirror cabinet 98. In another embodiment, the sink module and mirror module
can be a
single module or can be further divided into more modules.
[0076] In a preferred embodiment, a modular lavatory system is provided
where the same
size sink module 42 and/or mirror module 46 can be used in different lavatory
monument
assemblies. This improves part commonality, thereby making it easier to
manufacture
lavatory monuments for different aircraft or several lavatory monuments within
the same
aircraft (see, e.g., FIGS. 26-27). For example, the same sink module 42 and/or
minor
module 46 can be used with the lavatory monument assemblies 10 shown in FIGS.
1-13,
and can also be used in the lavatory monument assemblies 50, 70, 112 or 120 as
described
below.
[00771 FIG. 9 shows the separate personal space 45 and toilet space 47 that
is created within
the lavatory interior 49. The personal space 45 and toilet space 47 are
defined and divided
by the second portion 26b of wall 26 extended, as is best shown in FIG. 9. As
is shown in
the drawings, in preferred embodiment, the toilet does not touch the sink
module 42 or the
alcove 38.
[0078] FIG. 10 shows an inside view of an exemplary embodiment of the
lavatory
monument assembly 10 with the second and third walls 30 and 31 removed. It
will be
appreciated that a lavatory with this layout may not to be modular. However,
in a
preferred embodiment, the lavatory monument assembly 10 includes generally an
outer
shell 80 (that includes first 28, second 30, third 31 and fourth 26 walls, a
floor 81 and
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ceiling 33), a sink module 42, mirror module 46, toilet module 84, ceiling
module 86 and
door module 88. In embodiments of the invention, the outer shell can omit the
floor, the
ceiling or any one or more of the walls. As shown in FIG. 10, the lavatory
monument
assembly 10 also includes a floor pan 90.
[0079] The modularity discussed herein provides for efficient
manufacturing, the ability to
change modules according to airline needs, and the ability to use and mount
common
modules in different sized or shaped outer shells, among other advantages that
may or may
not be described herein. Generally, the present invention provides common
modules
between different lavatories with an adjustably sized outer shell (described
below), but
with common mount points or commonly spaced mount points, thus allowing for
multiple
lavatory configurations with minimal changes. In another embodiment, other
modules
other than those listed above can be provided. In yet another embodiment, one
or more of
the modules listed above can be omitted. In a preferred embodiment, the
modules can be
installed or removed quickly and easily, which provides for
interchangeability, easy
maintenance, etc.
[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the modular lavatory system includes a
mounting system
that is common for different modules and different outer shells. Preferably,
each sink
module 42 includes mounting components that mate with common mounting
components
on different outer shells. This allows the modules to be interchangeable
between
identically sized and different sized outer shells. For simplicities sake, the
set of mounting
components on the outer shell are labeled 97a and the set of mounting
components on the
modules are labeled 97b.
[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the sink module 42 includes at least one
or more of a
sink, 32, sink cabinet 41, faucet 92, mounting components 97b, water heater,
drain, trash,
water filter, controller, necessary electronics, toilet paper dispenser 94,
counter 48, soap
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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and other components commonly found within the sink cabinet. For example, the
sink
module 42 can also include a paper towel dispenser, lighting, storage, etc. In
an exemplary
embodiment, the sink module 42 includes a sink cabinet 41, a counter 48, sink
bowl 32,
drain, waste compartment 114, toilet paper dispenser 94, a water heater,
faucet 92, drain
(and appropriate plumbing), and mounting components 97b on the back of the
sink cabinet
41.
[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the mirror module 46 includes at least
one or more of a
mirror cabinet 98, mounting components 97b on the back of the cabinet 98, a
mirror 100,
an amenities dispenser, paper towel dispenser 102, integrated LED lighting and
associated
electronics, call attendant button, gasper/air, sink lighting and other
components commonly
found within the mirror cabinet.
[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the ceiling module 86 includes at least
one or more of a
dome light or other lighting, oxygen masks/generator, speakers and a smoke
detector,
which arc all housed in a housing that includes mounting components 97b
thereon.
[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the toilet module 84 includes at least
one or more of a
toilet 12 (bowl, seat and lid, etc.), mounting components 97b and associated
plumbing
connections and a shroud 106. Preferably, each shroud 106 in the modular
lavatory system
has a common curvature that it can fit on the wall and cover opening 110. In a
preferred
embodiment, the shroud 106 extends between the third wall 31 and the third
portion 26c of
the fourth wall 26.
[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the door module 88 includes at least one
or more of a
door 40, door frame 108, handle, hinge, dead bolt, vent and associated
components
therefor. The door 40 can be a blade door, a bi-fold door or any other type of
known door.
It will be appreciated that each of the modules is comprised of one or more
components.
The listing of components herein is not intended to be limiting, but only
exemplary.
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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[0086] In a preferred embodiment, common mounting components can be
included within a
module. For example, the sink module can include a mounting system that
provides
different counters and/or bowls that can be mounted on a common sized cabinet.
[0087] FIGS. 11A-11B show an exemplary modular lavatory system and the
original
construction of a lavatory monument assembly 10 of the present invention. As
shown in
FIG. 11A, in use, the outer shell 80, which includes first wall 28, second
wall 30 (not
shown in FIG. 11A), third wall 31 (not shown in FIG. 11A), fourth wall 26,
floor 81 and
ceiling 33, is constructed or provided and the sink module 42, mirror module
46, toilet
module 84, ceiling module 86 and door module 88 are all positioned and secured
within
the outer shell 80 to form the lavatory monument assembly 10, as shown in FIG.
11B. The
outer shell 80 is a bonded structure that forms a "box" into which the modules
can be
positioned and secured. The sink module 42 and mirror module 46 are positioned
and
secured within alcove 38. The ceiling module 86 is positioned under and
secured to ceiling
33. In an embodiment without a ceiling, the ceiling module 86 can be secured
within the
opening at the top of the monument. The toilet module 84 is positioned on and
secured to
the first wall 28 (which preferably includes a plumbing opening 110 therein
for making
plumbing connections). In a preferred embodiment, the first wall 28 and/or
side walls 26
and 31 include mounting components 97b (e.g., brackets) thereon that allows
different
sized toilet modules 84 (i.e., different width shrouds 106) to fit universally
thereon. The
door module 88 is positioned and secured within an opening in the third wall
31. During
construction, wall treatments and other decorations can be added as necessary.
As will be
appreciated, and as described below, the modules can be included in many
different types
of lavatokies.
[0088] FIGS. 12A-12B show the sets of mounting components 97a and 97b on
the outer
shell 80 and the modules. As discussed herein, the universal, repeatable
mounting system
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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provides for the interchangeability of modules between different outer shells
(whether the
same size or not.
[0089] FIG. 13 shows an devotional view of the lavatory monument assembly
10 with the
second wall 30 removed and showing third wall 31 with a curved portion 43
therein. The
curved portion 43 provides for extra space for seats forward of the lavatory
and extra
shoulder space for users standing in the lavatory. The curved portion 43 also
provides for
the upper portion of the lavatory to extend further forward, thereby allowing
it to meet up
with the overhead bins.
[0090] Other embodiments of lavatory monument assemblies will now be
described. It
should be understood that the lavatory monument assemblies and the
configurations
thereof may nor may not be modular. Accordingly, the description herein
regarding the
lavatory monument assemblies being modular is not a limitation on the present
invention.
[0091] FIGS. 14-16 show a lavatory monument assembly 112 that includes a
storage unit or
compartment 53. In a preferred embodiment, the storage compartment 53 extends
from the
floor 81 to above the counter 48 and preferably all the way to ceiling 33, and
is part of the
outer shell bonded structure 116. As shown in FIG. 14, the storage compartment
53 is
defined by adding first and second exterior walls 117 and 118 to the outer
shell shown in
FIGS. 4-5. Therefore, the storage compartment 53 is defined by exterior walls
117 and
118 and the second and third portions 26b and 26c of fourth wall 26.
Describing it another
way, the storage compartment 53 is defined by extending the first and fourth
walls 28 and
26 and adding the interior wall portions 26b and 26c. In this embodiment, the
second wall
portion 26b is also referred to as the first storage compattment wall and the
third wall
portion 26c is also referred to as the second storage compartment wall. In
constructing the
outer shell 116, each of the walls 26, 28, 117, 118 or portions thereof can be
unitary or
separate pieces that are bonded together. It will be appreciated that the
first exterior wall
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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117 is connected to the first wall 28 and the second exterior wall is
connected to the first
portion 26a of the fourth wall 26. In a preferred embodiment, the first
exterior wall 117 is
co-planar with the first wall 28 and the second exterior wall 118 is co-planar
with the first
portion 26a of the fourth wall 26. However, this is not a limitation and the
first exterior
wall 117 can connect to the first wall 28 at an angle and the second exterior
wall 118 can
connect to the first portion 26a of the fourth wall 26 at an angle.
[0092] The storage compartment 53 can be used in a number of different
ways. In an
embodiment, the storage compartment 53 can be accessible from inside the
lavatory. For
example, as shown in FIG. 15, the storage compartment 53 can be used for
housing a paper
towel dispenser 102 and/or a trash receptacle 114. In another embodiment, as
shown in
FIG. 16, the storage compartment 53 can be accessed from the outside via a
door 55. In an
embodiment, the storage compartment 53 can be accessible from inside and
outside the
lavatory. For example, the door for changing the paper towels or taking out
the trash
receptacle can be on the outside, while the paper towels and trash receptacle
are usable
inside. The storage compartment 53 can be used for lavatory provisions, crew
emergency
equipment, a closet or for other storage. As shown in FIG. 16, in another
embodiment,
lavatory monument assembly 112 includes a door 44 that allows access from the
outside to
amenities on the inside of the lavatory. For example, as shown in FIG. 16,
this can allow
the toilet paper roll (or rolls) to be changed from outside. This lavatory
monument
assembly 10 would likely be used in an area or an aircraft that is not
adjacent an exit door,
thereby obviating the need for the flight attendant assist space 36. However,
this lavatory
monument assembly can also be positioned next to an exit door.
[0093] It will be appreciated that in an embodiment where lavatory monument
assembly 112
is modular, any or all of sink module 42, mirror module 46, toilet module 84,
ceiling
module 86 and door module 88 are compatible with the outer shell 116 of
lavatory
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
28
monument assembly 112, just as they are compatible with the outer shell 80 of
lavatory
monument assembly 10.
[0094] FIGS. 17-18 show another embodiment of a lavatory monument assembly
120 where
it is positioned adjacent, secured to or unitary with a lie flat bed/seat 122
in business or
first class. This scenario may happen, for example, in the front row of an
aircraft with a
lavatory monument forward thereof. In this embodiment, the space created by
alcove 38
can be used for a seat to recline or for the foot portion of a bed. This can
also be used in
coach class where a regular seat can recline into the space created by the
alcove 38. FIG.
17, shows the lavatory monument assembly 120 unitary with seat shell 123 of
the business
class seat. As shown, in a preferred embodiment, first wall 28 is extended and
is secured
to or unitary with the seat shell 123. As shown in FIG. 17, the second portion
26b of wall
26 can be angled to provide more space in alcove 38. However, this is not a
limitation on
the invention. In FIG. 18, the second portion 26b of wall 26 is not angled and
neither is the
sink module 42.
[0095] In a preferred embodiment, the fourth wall 26 includes a foot recess
124 defined
therein. As shown in FIG. 18, the recess extends into the lavatory interior
49. The recess
can include a top wall 126 that can serve as a counter for the passenger in
the scat adjacent
thereto.
[0096] It will be appreciated that in an embodiment where lavatory monument
assembly 120
is modular, any or all of sink module 42, mirror module 46, toilet module 84,
ceiling
module 86 and door module 88 are compatible with the outer shell 128 of
lavatory
monument assembly 120, just as they are compatible with the outer shell 80 of
lavatory
monument assembly 10 or the outer shell 116 of lavatory monument assembly 112.
[0097] FIG. 19 shows a dual lavatory monument assembly 50 that includes
first, second,
third and fourth walls 28, 30, 31 and 26 that cooperate to form an outer shell
57 that
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defines an interior, and a fifth 56 wall that divides the interior into first
and second
lavatories 52 and 54 that share wall 56 (with first portion 56a, second
portion 56b and third
portion 56c). In a preferred embodiment, the first portion 56a is connected to
the first wall
28, the third portion 56c is connected to the second wall 30, and the second
portion 56b
extends between and is not parallel with the first and third portions 56a and
56c. The outer
shell 57 includes two alcoves 38.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 19, in a preferred embodiment, the dual lavatory
monument
assembly 50 (which will typically be used as a center lavatory) provides extra
space,
compared to the side by side conventional lavatories 200. The two alcoves 38
of the
adjacent lavatories 52 and 54 essentially create interlocking lavatories where
the sink
modules 42 are positioned adjacent one another and define an alcove strip 58.
As will be
appreciated, by forming the outer shell 57 as shown in FIG. 19, the overall
width (forward
to aft or inboard to outboard) of the two lavatories can be reduced, compared
to the prior
art, which provides space for extra seats, which, as is described above, is
desirable in
aircraft. It will be appreciated that in an embodiment of dual lavatory
monument assembly
50 that is modular, any or all of sink module 42, mirror module 46, toilet
module 84,
ceiling module 86 and door module 88 are compatible with the outer shell 57
(which
preferably includes wall 56), just as they are compatible with the outer shell
80 of lavatory
monument assembly 10 or the outer shell 116 of lavatory monument assembly 112
or the
outer shell 128 of lavatory monument assembly 120.
[0099] FIGS. 20-22 show different layouts of a quad lavatory monument
assembly 70 that
includes first, second, third and fourth lavatories 52, 54, 72 and 74. The
quad lavatory
monument assembly 70 includes first, second, third and fourth walls 28, 30, 31
and 26 that
cooperate to form an outer shell 77 that defines an interior, and fifth 56,
sixth 59 and
seventh 76 walls that divide the interior into the first, second, third and
fourth lavatories
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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52, 54, 72 and 74. Fifth wall 56 includes first portion 56a, second portion
56b and third
portion 56c. Sixth wall 59 includes first portion 59a, second portion 59b and
third portion
59c. For the fifth wall, in a preferred embodiment, the first portion 56a is
connected to the
first wall 28, the third portion 56c is connected to the seventh wall 76, and
the second
portion 56b extends between and is not parallel with the first and third
portions 56a and
56c. For the sixth wall 59, in a preferred embodiment, the first portion 59a
is connected to
the second wall 30, the third portion 59c is connected to the seventh wall 76,
and the
second portion 59b extends between and is not parallel with the first and
third portions 59a
and 59c. The outer shell 77 includes four alcoves 38. In a preferred
embodiment, as
shown in FIGS. 20-22, the first portion 56a of fifth wall 56 is co-planar and
parallel to the
first portion 59a of sixth wall 59, and the third portion 56c of fifth wall 56
is co-planar and
parallel to the third portion 59c of sixth wall 59. Furthermore, the second
portions 56b and
59b of the fifth and sixth walls 56 and 59 are parallel and not co-planar.
[00100] As is shown in FIGS. 20-22, the lavatories can include angled scats
(as described
above), seats that face inboard, outboard, forward or aft. In this embodiment,
the alcoves
38 are positioned adjacent one another and define an alcove strip 58. The
alcove strip 58
spans the interior between the first and second walls 28 and 30. The adjacent
positioning
of the sink modules 42 and mirror modules 46 provide the opportunity for
sharing
components, such as water heaters or filters, etc. It will be appreciated that
in an
embodiment of quad lavatory monument assembly 70 that is modular, any or all
of sink
module 42, mirror module 46, toilet module 84, ceiling module 86 and door
module 88 are
compatible with the outer shell 77 (which preferably includes walls 56, 59 and
76), just as
they are compatible with the outer shell 80 of lavatory monument assembly 10,
the outer
shell 116 of lavatory monument assembly 112, the outer shell 128 of lavatory
monument
assembly 120 or the outer shell or the outer shell 57 of lavatory monument
assembly 50.
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
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[00101] In a preferred embodiment, within the modular lavatory system, the
alcove 38 is
always approximately the same size depth and width (height may vary), thereby
allowing
the sink module 42 and mirror module 46 to fit in any sized lavatory monument
assembly.
Furthermore, the shroud 106 of the toilet module 84 may vary in width to fit
different sized
lavatory monument assemblies. However, in a preferred embodiment, each
lavatory
monument assembly is equipped with common sized brackets for mounting the
shroud
106. Therefore, the lavatory monument assemblies can have variable widths or
depths, but
each have a common sized alcove for removably mounting the sink and mirror
modules
therein and common brackets for mounting the toilet module. This allows
flexibility in
monument size, but provides commonality for mounting the sink, mirror and
toilet
modules in different monuments and commonality when replacing modules within a
monument. As used herein, removably mounted or removably mounting means that a
module can be disconnected from the outer shell and replaced with a similar
module (or
the same module) using common mounting components and common interfaces (e.g.,
for
hooking up water, electricity, plumbing and the like)
[00102] The modularity of the lavatory monument assemblies described herein
also provides
other advantages for airlines or other users of the modular lavatory system.
Typically,
after a number of years of use a conventional lavatory is removed, scrapped
and replaced
with a new conventional lavatory. FIGS. 23A depicts a dirty lavatory monument
assembly
10. FIGS. 23B-23C show how the modular lavatory system provides the ability to
remove
the modules (e.g., any or all of sink module 42, mirror module 46, toilet
module 84, ceiling
module 86 and door module 88), clean the outer shell 80 and modules
separately, and
reinstall the modules after cleaning. FIG. 23B shows the outer shell 80, sink
module 42,
mirror module 46, toilet module 84, ceiling module 86 and door module 88
separate from
one another and ready to be cleaned and FIG. 23C shows the lavatory monument
assembly
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
32
reassembled with clean components. In another embodiment, the outer shell 80
can be
cleaned and new modules can be installed. This provides the opportunity to
provide new
modules or upgraded modules, upgraded wall decor, etc. The mounting system
also
enables the installation of new modules. For example, the old sink module 42
and the new
sink module 42 have similar mounting components 97b thereon that both mate
with the
mounting components 97a on the outer shell 80.
[00103] FIGS. 24A-24C show another exemplary embodiment of the lavatory
monument
system and the ability to upgrade to a larger lavatory without needing to
purchase a new
one. This may be advantageous in a scenario wherein a smaller lavatory (e.g.,
lavatory
monument assembly 10) was originally installed in an aircraft, but the airline
later desires
to change to a larger size. FIG. 24A shows the outer shell 80 after removal of
the original
modules therein (e.g., sink module 42, mirror module 46, toilet module 84,
ceiling module
86 and door module 88). As shown in FIG. 24B, extensions 130 can be added to
the floor
81, the first wall 28 and the ceiling. In this example, an extension is also
added to second
wall 30, not shown. The extensions 130 together with the first through fourth
walls
comprise a new outer shell 132 into which the original modules, new modules or
some new
and some old can be installed, as shown in FIG. 24C. The extra space can be
used as
desired. FIG. 24C shows an exemplary seat or baby changing table 134 that can
be added.
In another embodiment, the size of the lavatory can be reduced.
[00104] FIG. 25 shows some of the advantages provided by the modular
lavatory system,
such as adjustable width, adjustable depth and the ability to add a curved or
straight first
wall 28 (or any other wall) depending on the positioning in an aircraft,
desired lavatory
size or other needs dictated by positioning. The alcoves of different outer
shells preferably
receive a common width sink module therein and a common width mirror module
therein.
It will be appreciated that the modular lavatory system provided herein allows
the lavatory
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
33
monument to be sizable to fit within an aircraft and provide the best seating
arrangement
options (i.e., number and positioning of seats) instead of having the seating
arrangement
have to be designed around the size of the lavatories. This is possible
because generally,
the outer shell is a customizable "box" into which a "standardized" module can
be fitted.
[00105] FIGS. 26-27 show a plan view of an exemplary aircraft layout with a
number of
modular lavatory monument assemblies having an alcove therein. FIG. 26 shows
the
forward portion of the aircraft and FIG. 27 shows the aft portion of the
aircraft. As can be
seen, there are a number of different shaped and sized lavatory monument
assemblies 10,
112, 120 and 70 therein, that each include an outer shell 80, 116, 128 and 77.
However,
within the outer shells of each lavatory monument assembly are common sink
modules 42
and mirror modules 46 (and other modules) positioned within the alcoves 38.
FIG. 27
shows the aftmost lavatory monument assemblies 112 with storage compartments
58 and
alcoves 38 that have a non-rectangular cross-section in plan view.
[00106] In an exemplary embodiment, the modules include the following
components. The
sink module 32 includes a sink cabinet, a faucet, a sink bowl and counter, a
waste
compartment, a water supply system, a toilet paper dispensing unit and a set
of mounting
components thereon. The mirror module includes a mirror cabinet, a mirror, a
paper towel
dispensing unit, a flight attendant call button, and a set of mounting
components thereon.
The toilet module includes a shroud, a toilet bowl, a seat, a lid and mounting
components
thereon. The door module includes a frame and a door. The ceiling module
includes a
housing, an oxygen generator, at least one oxygen mask, a speaker, a smoke
detector and a
set of mounting components thereon.
[00107] In a preferred embodiment, the invention includes a method of
providing first and
second identically sized sink modules, providing first and second differently
sized outer
shells (e.g., different inner volumes) that each include an alcove, and
positioning the first
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
34
sink modules in the alcove of the first outer shell and the second sink module
in the alcove
of the second outer shell to create first and second lavatory monument
assemblies. For
example, the first sink module can be positioned in lavatory monument assembly
10 and
the second sink module can be positioned in lavatory monument assembly 120 or
vice
versa. The method also includes providing first and second identically sized
mirror
modules and positioning the first mirror module in the alcove of the first
outer shell and the
second sink module in the alcove of the second outer shell. In a preferred
embodiment, the
first outer shell includes a sink mounting system therein and the second outer
shell includes
an identical sink mounting system therein. This allows the first and second
sink modules
to be positioned in either of the different first and second outer shells.
[00108] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention also includes a
system for
assembling lavatory monument assemblies (e.g., an assembly line). The system
includes
providing at least first and second (and preferably more) differently sized
outer shells that
each include an alcove therein. Providing a plurality of sink modules and a
plurality of
mirror modules and positioning a sink module and mirror module in the alcove
of each
outer shell. Generally, the present invention provides an adjustably sized
outer shell with
standard sized modules positioned therein.
[00109] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the
description and the
claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be construed
in an
inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to
say, in the sense
of "including, but not limited to." As used herein, the terms "connected,"
"coupled," or
any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or
indirect, between
two or more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can be
physical,
logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words "herein," "above,"
"below," and
words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this
application as a
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
35
whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the
context permits, words
in the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments using the
singular or plural
number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word
"or" in
reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following
interpretations of the word:
any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any
combination of the items in the
list.
[00110] The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is
not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above.
While specific
embodiments of and examples for the disclosure are described above for
illustrative purposes,
various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the
disclosure, as those skilled
in the relevant art will recognize. Further, any specific numbers noted herein
are only
examples: alternative implementations may employ differing values,
measurements or ranges.
[00111] The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to
other systems, not
necessarily the system described above. The elements and acts of the various
embodiments
described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Any
measurements
described or used herein are merely exemplary and not a limitation on the
present invention.
Other measurements can be used.
[00112] Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ
the systems, functions,
and concepts of the various references described above to provide yet further
embodiments of
the disclosure.
[00113] These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of
the above Detailed
Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the above description
describes
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
36
certain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode
contemplated, no
matter how detailed the above appears in text, the teachings can be practiced
in many
ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its implementation
details, while
still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted
above,
particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the
disclosure
should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to
be
restricted to any specific characteristics, features or aspects of the
disclosure with which
that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following
claims should
not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specific embodiments
disclosed in the
specification unless the above Detailed Description of the Preferred
Embodiments
section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the
disclosure
encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways
of
practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.
[00114] While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in
certain claim forms,
the inventors contemplate the various aspects of the disclosure in any number
of claim
forms. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims
after filing
the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the
disclosure.
[00115]
Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been shown and
described, it is to be understood that all the terms used herein are
descriptive rather than
limiting, and
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
37
that many changes, modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having
ordinary
skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
CA 2997127 2018-03-01
