U.S. patent application number 13/849088 was filed with the patent office on 2013-09-26 for dynamic chilled mini-bar for aircraft passenger suite.
This patent application is currently assigned to B/E AEROSPACE, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is B/E AEROSPACE, INC.. Invention is credited to William Godecker, Qiao Lu, Javier Valdes De La Garza.
Application Number | 20130247590 13/849088 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49210513 |
Filed Date | 2013-09-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130247590 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lu; Qiao ; et al. |
September 26, 2013 |
Dynamic Chilled Mini-Bar for Aircraft Passenger Suite
Abstract
A dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: a cover; a movable
compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind
the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the interior of
the movable compartment. A piece of integrated entertainment
equipment in a vehicle includes: a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably
installed on the integrated entertainment equipment; and an
actuator coupled with at least one of a side of the integrated
entertainment equipment and the movable compartment, the actuator
being operable to translate the movable compartment. A method of
operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: receiving an input
signal to translate a movable compartment of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar from a first position to a second position with respect to
a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar; and linearly translating
the movable compartment to the second position according to the
input signal.
Inventors: |
Lu; Qiao; (Placentia,
CA) ; Godecker; William; (Irvine, CA) ; Valdes
De La Garza; Javier; (Miami, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
B/E AEROSPACE, INC. |
Wellington |
FL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
B/E AEROSPACE, INC.
Wellington
FL
|
Family ID: |
49210513 |
Appl. No.: |
13/849088 |
Filed: |
March 22, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61614640 |
Mar 23, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/3.6 ; 312/236;
312/270.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B64D 11/0604 20141201;
B64D 11/04 20130101; B64D 11/0636 20141201; F25B 21/02 20130101;
F25D 11/00 20130101; F25D 25/04 20130101; F25D 23/026 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
62/3.6 ; 312/236;
312/270.1 |
International
Class: |
F25D 11/00 20060101
F25D011/00 |
Claims
1. A dynamic chilled mini-bar comprising: a cover; a movable
compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind
the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the interior of
the movable compartment.
2. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising: a
beverage tray disposed within the movable compartment, wherein the
cooling device is thermally coupled with the beverage tray through
an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment.
3. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 2, wherein the cooling
device cools a surface of the beverage tray to cool the interior of
the movable compartment.
4. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 2, wherein the beverage
tray is constructed of a thermally conductive material.
5. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising: a
controller operable to control the cooling device to maintain about
a preset temperature in the interior of the movable
compartment.
6. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, wherein the cooling
device comprises a thermoelectric cooling module comprising: at
least one thermoelectric cooling device operable to cool the
interior of the movable compartment; a fan operable to circulate
air from outside the at thermoelectric cooling module to the at
least one thermoelectric cooling device to reject heat from the
thermoelectric cooling module to the outside; and a temperature
controller operable to control an amount of power delivered to the
at least one thermoelectric cooling device.
7. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising: an
actuator operable to translate the movable compartment.
8. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 7, further comprising: a
controller that controls the actuator to linearly translate the
movable compartment from a first position to a second position,
wherein the second position is selected from the group consisting
of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and
partially opened position.
9. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 8, wherein when the
movable compartment is in the completely stowed position, the
interior of the movable compartment is completely behind the
cover.
10. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 8, wherein when the
movable compartment is in the completely opened position, a
majority of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from
behind the cover.
11. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 10, wherein when the
movable compartment is in the partially opened position, less of
the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the
cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened
position.
12. A piece of integrated entertainment equipment in a vehicle, the
piece of integrated entertainment equipment comprising: a dynamic
chilled mini-bar movably installed on the integrated entertainment
equipment, the dynamic chilled mini-bar comprising: a cover; a
movable compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from
behind the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the
interior of the movable compartment; and an actuator coupled with
at least one of a side of the integrated entertainment equipment
and the movable compartment, the actuator being operable to
translate the movable compartment.
13. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12,
the dynamic chilled mini-bar further comprising: a controller
operable to control the cooling device to maintain about a preset
temperature in the interior of the movable compartment.
14. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12,
the actuator comprising: a rotatable screw; and a bracket coupled
with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being
coupled with the screw, wherein when the screw rotates, the movable
compartment is translated linearly.
15. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 14,
wherein when the screw rotates, the movable compartment is
translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the
screw.
16. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12,
the actuator comprising: a screw; a motor operable to rotate the
screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first
end of the bracket being coupled with the screw, wherein when the
motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment is translated
linearly.
17. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 16,
wherein when the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment
is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of
the screw.
18. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12,
the actuator comprising: a screw that is stationary; a nut that is
rotatable around the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable
compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut,
wherein when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable
compartment is translated linearly.
19. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 18,
wherein when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable
compartment is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise
direction of the screw.
20. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12,
the actuator comprising: a screw that is stationary; a motor
operable to rotate a nut around the screw; and a bracket coupled
with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being
coupled with the nut, wherein when the motor rotates the nut around
the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly with the
screw.
21. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 20,
wherein when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the
movable compartment is translated linearly in parallel with a
length-wise direction of the screw.
22. A method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar, the method
comprising: receiving an input signal to translate a movable
compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position
to a second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar; and linearly translating the movable compartment to the
second position according to the input signal.
23. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according
to claim 22, wherein the second position is selected from the group
consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened
position, and partially opened position.
24. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according
to claim 23, wherein when the movable compartment is in the
completely stowed position, an interior of the movable compartment
is completely behind the cover.
25. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according
to claim 23, wherein when the movable compartment is in the
completely opened position, a majority of an interior of the
movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover.
26. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according
to claim 25, wherein when the movable compartment is in the
partially opened position, less of the interior of the movable
compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the movable
compartment is in the completely opened position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/614,640 entitled "DYNAMIC
CHILLED MINI-BAR FOR AIRCRAFT PASSENGER SUITE" and filed on Mar.
23, 2012, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to aircraft
integrated entertainment equipment for a super first class interior
environment, and more specifically to integrated entertainment
equipment including a dynamic translational motion chilled mini-bar
in an aircraft super first class passenger suite.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] Known mini-bars for use in aircraft passenger suites
normally stand on a floor of the passenger suites. Typically, the
mini-bars have doors that open outward and protrude into the
passenger suites. To access these mini-bars, passengers must first
bend down to open the doors of the mini-bars. To reach the food
products or beverages contained within the mini-bars, the
passengers must hold the doors open while reaching inside the
mini-bars for the desired food or beverages.
[0006] These mini-bars that stand on the floor of aircraft
passenger suites can be very cumbersome for several reasons.
Aircraft passenger suites have limited space available. When the
doors of the mini-bars are opened, the doors swing outward into the
passenger suites, and reduce the space available in the suites. In
addition, it is difficult for passengers to access any food or
beverage contained within these mini-bars. When attempting to
ascertain the contents of the mini-bars, the passengers must bend
down to the level of the mini-bars to hold the doors open, which is
an awkward position for the passengers to read the labels of the
food and beverages contained within the mini-bars. Furthermore,
when the ride is rough due to turbulence or other disturbances, it
can be unsafe for passengers to leave their seats to access these
mini-bars.
SUMMARY
[0007] Embodiments may overcome problems of the known mini-bars to
facilitate more space in aircraft passenger suites, maintain the
temperature of food products and beverages contained therein at the
required food storage temperature, and offer convenient access to
food and beverages at any position of passenger seating.
[0008] The mini-bars described herein provide the capability for
the dynamic chilled mini-bar to be movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment within an aircraft super first class
passenger suite. In an embodiment, the dynamic chilled mini-bar
includes a cover, a movable compartment, a beverage tray disposed
within the movable compartment, and an air-cooled thermoelectric
cooling module attached to the beverage tray through an opening at
a bottom of the movable compartment. The movable compartment of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar is slidably attached to a side or back of
the integrated entertainment equipment via an actuator. During
operation, the actuator translates the movable compartment along
the side of the integrated entertainment equipment. This way, no
portion of the dynamic chilled mini-bar protrudes into the
passenger suite when opened compared to when closed, thus
facilitating more space in the passenger suite.
[0009] In various embodiments, the actuator translates the movable
compartment along the side of the integrated entertainment
equipment and may stop the movable compartment at various positions
to provide access to any food or beverage contained within the
dynamic chilled mini-bar. With this configuration, a passenger,
whether seated or standing, can easily access any food or beverages
contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Accordingly, the
passenger can access the food or beverage contained therein without
the difficulties associated with a known mini-bar, such as having
to first open a door of the known mini-bar, and then bending down
to reach inside the known mini-bar.
[0010] In an embodiment, a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: a
cover; a movable compartment translatable to expose an interior
thereof from behind the cover; and a cooling device operable to
cool the interior of the movable compartment.
[0011] The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include a beverage
tray disposed within the movable compartment, where the cooling
device is thermally coupled with the beverage tray through an
opening at a bottom of the movable compartment. The cooling device
may cool a surface of the beverage tray to cool the interior of the
movable compartment. The beverage tray may be constructed of a
thermally conductive material.
[0012] The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include a
controller operable to control the cooling device to maintain about
a preset temperature in the interior of the movable
compartment.
[0013] The cooling device may include a thermoelectric cooling
module. The thermoelectric cooling module may include: at least one
thermoelectric cooling device operable to cool the interior of the
movable compartment; a fan operable to circulate air from outside
the thermoelectric cooling module to the at least one
thermoelectric cooling device to reject heat from the
thermoelectric cooling module to the outside; and a temperature
controller operable to control an amount of power delivered to the
at least one thermoelectric cooling device.
[0014] The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include an actuator
operable to translate the movable compartment. The dynamic chilled
mini-bar may also include a controller that controls the actuator
to linearly translate the movable compartment from a first position
to a second position, where the second position is selected from
the group consisting of completely stowed position, completely
opened position, and partially opened position.
[0015] When the movable compartment is in the completely stowed
position, the interior of the movable compartment is completely
behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the completely
opened position, a majority of the interior of the movable
compartment is exposed from behind the cover. When the movable
compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the
interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the
cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened
position.
[0016] In another embodiment, a piece of integrated entertainment
equipment in a vehicle includes: a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably
installed on the integrated entertainment; and an actuator coupled
with at least one of a side of the integrated entertainment
equipment and the movable compartment, the actuator being operable
to translate the movable compartment.
[0017] The actuator may include: a rotatable screw; and a bracket
coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket
being coupled with the screw. When the screw rotates, the movable
compartment may be translated linearly. Furthermore, when the screw
rotates, the movable compartment may be translated linearly in
parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.
[0018] In another embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw; a
motor operable to rotate the screw; and a bracket coupled with the
movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with
the screw. When the motor rotates the screw, the movable
compartment may be translated linearly. Furthermore, when the motor
rotates the screw, the movable compartment may be translated
linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.
[0019] In yet another embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw
that is stationary; a nut that is rotatable around the screw; and a
bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the
bracket being coupled with the nut. When the nut rotates around the
screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly.
Furthermore, when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable
compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a
length-wise direction of the screw.
[0020] In an embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw that is
stationary; a motor operable to rotate a nut around the screw; and
a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the
bracket being coupled with the nut. When the motor rotates the nut
around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated
linearly with the screw. Furthermore, when the motor rotates the
nut around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated
linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.
[0021] In yet another embodiment, a method of operating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar includes: receiving an input signal to translate a
movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first
position to a second position with respect to a cover of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar; and linearly translating the movable
compartment to the second position according to the input
signal.
[0022] While the exemplary embodiments described herein are
presented in the context of a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably
installed on integrated entertainment equipment in a super first
class passenger suite, these embodiments are exemplary only and are
not to be considered limiting. The embodiments of the apparatus and
configuration are not limited to dynamic chilled mini-bars. For
example, embodiments of the apparatus and configuration may be
adapted for a refrigerator, freezer, and other food storage and
cooking devices. As another example, embodiments of the apparatus
and configuration may be adapted to fit within other sizes or areas
in an aircraft, vehicle, or other confined space. Various
embodiments may thus be used in any vehicle, including aircraft,
spacecraft, ships, buses, trains, recreational vehicles, trucks,
automobiles, and the like. Embodiments of the apparatus may also be
used in homes, offices, hotels, factories, warehouses, garages, and
other buildings where it may be desirable to use a dynamic chilled
mini-bar.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The above and other features and advantages of the invention
will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary
embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings listed
below:
[0024] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment in a super first class passenger suite, according to an
embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar with a cover, according to an embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar including a beverage tray and beverages disposed therein,
according to an embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment,
according to an embodiment.
[0028] FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views illustrating the dynamic
chilled mini-bar of FIG. 4 during operation, according to an
embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a bottom view
illustrating a beverage tray of a dynamic chilled mini-bar,
according to an embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar with a cover movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment, according to an embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric
cooling module of the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according
to an embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 9A is a top view, FIG. 9B is a side view, FIG. 9C is a
bottom view, and FIG. 9D is another side view illustrating the
thermoelectric cooling module of FIG. 8.
[0033] FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a bottom view,
and FIG. 10C is a side view illustrating a power supply of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 11A is a perspective view, FIG. 11B is a top view, and
FIG. 11C a side view illustrating a temperature controller of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a controller for the
dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an actuator that
translates a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an
embodiment.
[0037] FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar being translated by the actuator of FIG.
13 during operation.
[0038] FIGS. 15A-15C are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment during operation, according to an embodiment.
[0039] FIGS. 16A and 16B are perspective views illustrating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment during operation, according to another
embodiment.
[0040] FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views illustrating the
dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIGS. 16A and 16B.
[0041] FIG. 18A is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment.
[0042] FIGS. 18B and 18C are flowcharts illustrating a method of
translating a movable compartment of a dynamic chilled mini-bar,
according various embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] As described herein, a dynamic chilled mini-bar may be
movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment within an
aircraft super first class passenger suite. In an embodiment, the
dynamic chilled mini-bar may include a cover, a movable
compartment, a beverage tray disposed within the movable
compartment, a thermoelectric cooling module thermally coupled with
the beverage tray, a power supply, a temperature controller, and an
actuator. The movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar
may be slidably attached to a side or back of the integrated
entertainment equipment via the actuator. In various embodiments,
the actuator translates the movable compartment along the side or
the back of the integrated entertainment equipment to emerge from
behind the cover, and may stop the movable compartment at various
positions to provide access to any food or beverage contained
within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. With this configuration, a
passenger, whether seated or standing, can easily access any food
or beverages contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar.
Accordingly, the passenger can access the food or beverage within
the dynamic chilled mini-bar without the difficulties associated
with a known mini-bar, such as having to first open a door of the
known mini-bar, and then bending down to reach inside the known
mini-bar. Furthermore, no portion of the dynamic chilled mini-bar
protrudes into the passenger suite when opened compared to when
closed, thus facilitating more space in the passenger suite.
[0044] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment 110 in a super first class passenger suite 100, according
to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210 and a movable compartment 220.
The cover 210 may be opaque to match the facade of the integrated
entertainment equipment 110, or transparent (as shown in FIG. 2) to
provide passengers with a view of any contents within the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200. As shown in FIG. 1B, the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 is translated to an open position, so that passengers
may easily access beverages 300. Furthermore, the cover 210 may be
opened or removed to facilitate maintenance and cleaning.
[0045] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 with a cover 210, according to an embodiment. As
illustrated in FIG. 2, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a
cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed
within the movable compartment 220, and a thermoelectric cooling
module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an
opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220. In the
illustrated embodiment, the thermoelectric cooling module 240
distributes cool temperatures across a surface of the beverage tray
230, and in turn, the beverage tray 230 cools contents contained
within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. Because the thermoelectric
cooling module 240 is thermally coupled with and directly attached
to the beverage tray 230, the contents contained therein are
chilled regardless of whether the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is
in an open position as shown in FIG. 1B or in a stowed position as
shown in FIG. 2.
[0046] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 including a beverage tray 230 and beverages 300
disposed therein, according to an embodiment. The dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 includes a movable compartment 220 and a beverage tray
230 disposed within the movable compartment 220. The beverage tray
230 holds beverages 300 within the movable compartment 220 and
cools the beverages 300 using a thermoelectric cooling module 240
(as shown in FIG. 2).
[0047] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment 110, according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG.
4, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable
compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable
compartment 220, a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally
coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom
of the movable compartment 220, a power supply 250, a temperature
controller 260, and a power cord retainer 270. The power supply 250
may provide power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240, the
temperature controller 260, and an actuator (see FIGS. 13, 14A, and
14B). The power cord retainer 270 contains a power cord (271 in
FIG. 5B), and an end of the power cord is connected to the
thermoelectric cooling module 240.
[0048] FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views illustrating the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 4 during operation, according to an
embodiment. In FIG. 5A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a
completely stowed position, where the cover 210 completely covers a
front opening and an interior of the movable compartment 220. The
thermoelectric cooling module 240 is disposed at the bottom of the
movable compartment 220 and is thermally coupled with the beverage
tray 230. The power supply 250, the temperature controller 260, and
the power cord retainer 270 are disposed adjacent to a bottom of
the integrated entertainment equipment 110.
[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
is translated to a partially open position. The movable compartment
220 is translated vertically upward so the front opening and the
interior of the movable compartment 220 are partially exposed or
not covered by the cover 210. Since the thermoelectric cooling
module 240 is thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 and
disposed at the bottom of the movable compartment 220, when the
movable compartment 220 is translated along a side or back of the
integrated entertainment equipment 110, the thermoelectric cooling
module 240 is also translated along with the movable compartment
220. The power cord 271, which is connected to the thermoelectric
cooling module 240, extends out of the power cord retainer 270 when
the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is translated along with the
movable compartment 220. This way, the power cord 271 may transfer
power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 regardless of the
position of the movable compartment 220.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 5C, the movable compartment 220 is
translated into a completely opened position, so that a majority of
the front opening and the interior of the movable compartment 220
is exposed or not covered by the cover 210. On the other hand, when
the movable compartment 220 is translated to a partially opened
position as shown in FIG. 5B, less of the interior of the movable
compartment 220 is exposed from behind the cover 210 than when the
movable compartment 220 is in the completely opened position as
shown in FIG. 5C. Because the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is
configured to translate along with the movable compartment 220,
even if the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is left open for an
extended period of time in the partially opened position or in the
completely opened position, the thermoelectric cooling module 240
can continuously cool the beverage tray 230, which would keep any
food or beverages disposed on the beverage tray 230 chilled and
fresh.
[0051] FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a bottom view
illustrating a beverage tray 230 of a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200,
according to an embodiment. FIG. 6A illustrates a beverage tray 230
movably disposed within a movable compartment 220. A bottom of the
movable compartment 220 includes an opening 221 configured to fit a
thermoelectric cooling module 240 that may be thermally coupled
with the beverage tray 230. The beverage tray 230 may be
constructed of a water tight metallic material, but this should not
be construed as limiting. The beverage tray 230 may be constructed
using other thermally conductive materials as known in the art. The
beverage tray 230 may further include a lip along edges of the
beverage tray 230 to help secure any food or beverages disposed
thereon. The beverage tray 230 may evenly distribute chilled
temperature across a surface that contacts the beverages and food
products. Furthermore, the beverage tray 230 may collect any
condensation, spills, or leakages from the beverages or food
products to facilitate maintenance and cleaning In various
embodiments, the beverage tray 230 may be decoupled from the
thermoelectric cooling module 240 and removed from the movable
compartment 220 to be cleaned.
[0052] FIG. 6B is a bottom view illustrating a beverage tray 230 of
a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an embodiment. The
beverage tray 230 includes an area 231 for coupling with the
thermoelectric cooling module 240. When coupled with or attached to
the thermoelectric cooling module 240, the surface of the beverage
tray 230 provides cooling contact with beverages or food products.
Through packaging of the beverages and the food products, heat
transfers from the beverages and food products to the beverage tray
230 and the thermoelectric cooling module 240, and thus the
beverages and food products are chilled and cooled by the beverage
tray 230 and the thermoelectric cooling module 240.
[0053] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 with a cover 210 movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment 110, according to an embodiment. The
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be movably installed on a side or
back of the integrated entertainment equipment 110. The dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment
220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment
220, a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the
beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom of the movable
compartment 220, a power supply 250, a temperature controller 260,
and a power cord retainer 270. The power supply 250 may provide
power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 and the temperature
controller 260. The power cord retainer 270 houses a power cord,
and an end of the power cord is connected to the thermoelectric
cooling module 240.
[0054] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric
cooling module 240 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7,
according to an embodiment. The thermoelectric cooling module 240
includes a fan 241, a connector 242, and at least one
thermoelectric cooling device housed inside the thermoelectric
cooling module 240. The fan 241 circulates air from an aircraft
cabin or passenger suite to the at least one thermoelectric cooling
device inside the thermoelectric cooling module 240, and rejects
heat from the thermoelectric cooling module 240 back into the
aircraft cabin or passenger suite. The connector 242 may be
connected to a power cord, for example, the power cord 271 as shown
in FIG. 5B, to supply power to the fan 241 and the at least one
thermoelectric cooling device.
[0055] FIG. 9A is a top view, FIG. 9B is a side view, FIG. 9C is a
bottom view, and FIG. 9D is another side view illustrating the
thermoelectric cooling module 240 of FIG. 8. FIG. 9A illustrates a
top view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 of FIG. 8. The
thermoelectric cooling module 240 includes a fan 241, a connector
242, and at least one thermoelectric cooling device. FIG. 9B
illustrates a side view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240. A
housing of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 contains the at
least one thermoelectric cooling device. FIG. 9C illustrates a
bottom view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240. A bottom side
of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 may be thermally coupled
with or attached to the beverage tray 230 to distribute cool
temperature across a surface of the beverage tray 230. FIG. 9D
illustrates another side view of the thermoelectric cooling module
240.
[0056] FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a bottom view,
and FIG. 10C is a side view illustrating a power supply 250 of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.
FIG. 10A illustrates the power supply 250, which provides power to
the thermoelectric cooling module 240 as shown in FIG. 8, the
temperature controller 260, and an actuator that translates the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The power supply 250 converts
aircraft AC (alternating current) power supply to DC (direct
current) power supply. In other embodiments, the power supply 250
may convert AC current, voltage, or power to DC current, voltage,
or power, respectively. The power supply 250 includes a housing 251
and terminal pins 252. The terminal pins 252 may provide ground,
input, and output connections between the power supply 250 and
other devices. Additionally, the power supply 250 may be attached
or mounted to the integrated entertainment equipment 110, but this
should not be construed as limiting. FIG. 10B illustrates a bottom
view of the power supply 250. FIG. 10C illustrates a side view of
the power supply 250. In an embodiment, the power supply 250 may
input 120 Vac at 60 Hz and output 12Vdc, 12 A.
[0057] FIG. 11A is a perspective view, FIG. 11B is a top view, and
FIG. 11C a side view illustrating a temperature controller 260 of
the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an
embodiment. FIG. 11A illustrates the temperature controller 260,
which monitors and controls the temperature in the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200. The temperature controller 260 may include dials 261
to adjust settings, for example, temperature, voltage, and fan
speed of the thermoelectric cooling module 240. The temperature
controller 260 may control an amount of power delivered to the
thermoelectric cooling module 240. This operation may be performed
using a pulse-width modulation (PWM) technique. For example, a high
current output of 12Vdc, 24 A at 25 degrees Celsius may be provided
to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 according to a PWM signal.
A safety device for temperature protection may also be included in
the temperature controller 260.
[0058] FIG. 11B illustrates a top view of the temperature
controller 260. FIG. 11C illustrates a side view of the temperature
controller 260. The temperature controller 260 may be connected to
the power supply 250. Alternatively, the temperature controller 260
and the power supply 250 may be housed together as one
component.
[0059] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a controller 1200 that
controls the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to
an embodiment. The controller 1200 may supplement or replace the
temperature controller 260. The controller 1200 may be installed on
the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 or the integrated entertainment
equipment 110. The controller 1200 may be coupled with a control
panel 1240 via an I/O interface 1230. The controller 1200 may
receive input commands from a user via the control panel 1240, such
as turning the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 on or off, selecting an
operation mode, translating the movable compartment 220 into an
opened or stowed position, and setting a desired temperature of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The controller 1200 may output
information to the user regarding an operational status (e.g.,
operational mode, activation of a defrost cycle, shut-off due to
over-temperature conditions of the movable compartment 220 and/or
components of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, etc.) of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 using a display of the control panel
1240. The control panel 1240 may be installed on or remotely from
embodiments of the dynamic chilled mini-bar and integrated
entertainment equipment with which the controller 1200 may be
coupled.
[0060] The controller 1200 may include a processor 1210 that
performs computations according to program instructions, a memory
1220 that stores the computing instructions and other data used or
generated by the processor 1210, and a network interface 1250 that
includes data communications circuitry for interfacing to a data
communications network 1290 such as Ethernet, Galley Data Bus
(GAN), or Controller Area Network (CAN). The processor 1210 may
include a microprocessor, a Field Programmable Gate Array, an
Application Specific Integrated Circuit, or a custom Very Large
Scale Integrated circuit chip, or other electronic circuitry that
performs a control function. The processor 1210 may also include a
state machine. The controller 1200 may also include one or more
electronic circuits and printed circuit boards. The processor 1210,
memory 1220, and network interface 1250 may be coupled with one
another using one or more data buses 1280. The controller 1200 may
communicate with and control various sensors and actuators 1270 of
the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 via a control interface 1260.
[0061] The controller 1200 may be controlled by or communicate with
a centralized computing system, such as one onboard an aircraft.
The controller 1200 may implement a compliant ARINC 812 logical
communication interface on a compliant ARINC 810 physical
interface. The controller 1200 may communicate via the Galley Data
Bus (e.g., galley networked GAN bus), and exchange data with a
Galley Network Controller (e.g., Master GAIN Control Unit as
described in the ARINC 812 specification). In accordance with the
ARINC 812 specification, the controller 1200 may provide network
monitoring, power control, remote operation, failure monitoring,
and data transfer functions. The controller 1200 may implement menu
definitions requests received from the Galley Network Controller
(GNC) for presentation on a GNC Touchpanel display device and
process associated button push events to respond appropriately. The
controller 1200 may provide additional communications using an
RS-232 communications interface and/or an infrared data port, such
as communications with a personal computer (PC) or a personal
digital assistant (PDA). Such additional communications may include
real-time monitoring of operations of the dynamic chilled mini-bar
200, long-term data retrieval, and control system software
upgrades. In addition, the control interface 1260 may include a
serial peripheral interface (SPI) bus that may be used to
communicate between the controller 1200 and motor controllers
within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200.
[0062] The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is configured to chill
and/or refrigerate beverages and/or food products which are placed
in the movable compartment 220. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
may operate in one or more of several modes, including
refrigeration and beverage chilling. A user may select a desired
temperature for the movable compartment 220 using the control panel
1240. The controller 1200 included with the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 may control a temperature within the movable
compartment 220 at a high level of precision according to the
desired temperature. Therefore, quality of beverages and/or food
products stored within the movable compartment 220 may be
maintained according to the user-selected operational mode of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200.
[0063] In various embodiments, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may
maintain a temperature inside the movable compartment 220 according
to a user-selectable option among several preprogrammed preset
temperatures, or according to a specific user-input preset
temperature. For example, a beverage chiller mode may maintain the
temperature inside the movable compartment 220 at a user-selectable
temperature of about 9 degrees centigrade (C), 12 degrees C., or 16
degrees C. In a refrigerator mode, the temperature inside the
movable compartment 220 may be maintained at a user-selectable
temperature of about 4 degrees C. or 7 degrees C.
[0064] The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be controlled by an
electronic control system associated with the controller 1200. The
memory 1220 of the controller 1200 may store a program for
performing a method of controlling the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
executable by the processor 1210. The method of controlling the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 performed by the electronic control
system may include a feedback control system such that the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 may automatically maintain a prescribed
temperature in the movable compartment 220 of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 using sensor data, such as temperature, to control the
thermoelectric cooling module 240.
[0065] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an actuator 280
that translates a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an
embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the actuator 280 is disposed
on a side or back of integrated entertainment equipment 110. The
actuator 280 may be an electromechanical actuator, a hydraulic
actuator, or other actuators known in the art. Furthermore, the
actuator 280 may be operated using a controller, for example, the
controller 1200 as shown in FIG. 12, an electrical controller, an
electromechanical controller, or other controllers known in the
art. In other embodiments, the function of the actuator 280 may be
performed manually. The controller that controls the actuator 280
may be installed on the integrated entertainment equipment 110 or
on the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The controller may receive
input commands from a user via input devices to translate the
movable compartment 220 to an opened or stowed position.
[0066] The actuator 280 may include a bracket 281 and a screw 283.
The actuator 280 converts rotary motion, such as that of a motor,
into linear displacement via the screw 283, with which the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 is coupled. The bracket 281 may be movably
coupled with the screw 283 and to a side of the movable compartment
220 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. Accordingly, when the
motor of the actuator 280 rotates the screw, the movable
compartment 220 that is coupled to the bracket 281 is translated
linearly. This should not be construed as limiting. For example, in
other embodiments, the screw 283 may be stationary, while the motor
of actuator 280 rotates a nut around the screw 283, and the bracket
281 is coupled with the nut rather than the screw 283. In yet other
embodiments, the actuator 280 may be operated manually using a
rotatable screw or by rotating a nut around a stationary screw.
Furthermore, when the screw rotates, the movable compartment 220
may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction
of the screw. In other embodiments, when the nut rotates around the
screw, the movable compartment 220 may be translated linearly in
parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.
[0067] FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 being translated by the actuator 280
of FIG. 13 during operation. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a stowed position. A side of the
movable compartment 220 is coupled with or attached to the bracket
281. A first end of the bracket 281 is coupled with the screw 283,
and a second end of the bracket 281 is coupled with a rail 282 to
stabilize the bracket 281 and to support a combined weight of the
movable compartment 220, the beverage tray 230, and the beverages
300.
[0068] In FIG. 14B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is translated
vertically upward along the side of the integrated entertainment
equipment 110 by the actuator 280. When the screw 283 is rotated,
either by a motor or manually, the bracket 281 is moved vertically
along an axis parallel to a length-wise direction of the screw.
Accordingly, the movable compartment 220 disposed on the bracket
281 is translated along the same vertical axis. As shown in FIG.
14B, the movable compartment 220 is translated into an opened
position, where the beverage tray 230 and the beverages 300 are
accessible to passengers. Although the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
is shown to be moving along a vertical axis, the described
embodiment should not be construed as limiting. In other
embodiments, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be translated
along a horizontal or diagonal axis. The movable compartment 220
may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction
of the screw 283.
[0069] FIGS. 15A-15C are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment 110 during operation, according to an embodiment. The
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable
compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable
compartment 220, a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally
coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom
of the movable compartment 220, and a power cord retainer 270
disposed adjacent to a bottom of the integrated entertainment
equipment 110. As illustrated in FIG. 15A, the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed position, where the cover
210 completely covers a front opening and interior of the movable
compartment 220. As shown in FIG. 15B, the movable compartment 220
is translated into a partially opened position, where an upper half
of the front opening of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or
not covered by the cover 210. FIG. 15C illustrates the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 translated into a completely opened position,
where a majority of the front opening and interior of the movable
compartment 220 is exposed or not covered by the cover 210.
Passengers may gain access to any contents in the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 when the movable compartment 220 is in a partially
opened position as shown in FIG. 15B or in a completely opened
position as illustrated in FIG. 15C. In addition, the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 220 may be stopped at any desired position between
the completely stowed position and the completely opened
position.
[0070] FIGS. 16A and 16B are perspective views illustrating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment 110 during operation, according to another
embodiment. FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views illustrating
the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIGS. 16A and 16B. As shown in
FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may
be integrated into the integrated entertainment equipment 110. In
FIGS. 16A and 17A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a
completely stowed position. In FIGS. 16B and 17B, the movable
compartment 220 of the mini-bar 200 is translated into a completely
opened position to expose the beverage tray 230 which holds the
beverages 300. With this configuration, a passenger, whether seated
or standing, can easily access any food or beverages contained
within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 20. Furthermore, the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 does not protrude into a super first class
passenger suite 100 when opened compared to when closed, thus
facilitating more space in the super first class passenger suite
100.
[0071] FIG. 18A is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment. In step
S1802, an input signal is received to translate a movable
compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position
to a second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar. Then in step S1804, the movable compartment is linearly
translated to the second position according to the input signal.
The second position may be selected from the group consisting of
completely stowed position, completely opened position, and
partially opened position. When the movable compartment is in the
completely stowed position, an interior of the movable compartment
is completely behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in
the completely opened position, a majority of an interior of the
movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover. When the
movable compartment is in the partially opened position, less of
the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the
cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely opened
position. The group of positions may be preprogrammed or preset
prior to operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Alternatively, the
second position may be specified by a user during operation.
[0072] FIGS. 18B and 18C are flowcharts illustrating a method of
translating a movable compartment of a dynamic chilled mini-bar,
according various embodiments. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 18B, a screw is rotated in step S1804-2. The screw may be
rotated by a motor or through manual operation. Then in step
S1804-4, the rotary motion of the screw is converted to linear
motion, and the movable compartment is linearly translated in
parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw. In the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18C, a nut is rotated around a
stationary screw in step S1804-6. The nut may be rotated around the
screw by a motor or through manual operation. Then in step S1804-8,
the rotary motion of the nut around the screw is converted to
linear motion, and the movable compartment is linearly translated
in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.
[0073] While the exemplary embodiments described herein are
presented in the context of a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably
installed on integrated entertainment equipment in a super first
class passenger suite, these embodiments are exemplary only and are
not to be considered limiting. The embodiments of the apparatus and
configuration are not limited to dynamic chilled mini-bars. For
example, embodiments of the apparatus and configuration may be
adapted for a refrigerator, freezer, and other food storage and
cooking devices. As another example, embodiments of the apparatus
and configuration may be adapted to fit within other sizes or areas
in an aircraft or vehicle. Various embodiments may thus be used in
any vehicle, including aircraft, spacecraft, ships, buses, trains,
recreational vehicles, trucks, automobiles, and the like.
Embodiments of the apparatus may also be used in homes, offices,
hotels, factories, warehouses, garages, and other buildings where
it may be desirable to use a dynamic chilled mini-bar.
[0074] All references, including publications, patent applications,
and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to
the same extent as if each reference were individually and
specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set
forth in its entirety herein.
[0075] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference has been made to the
embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language has
been used to describe these embodiments. However, no limitation of
the scope of the invention is intended by this specific language,
and the invention should be construed to encompass all embodiments
that would normally occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. The
terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the
particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting of
exemplary embodiments of the invention. In the description of the
embodiments, certain detailed explanations of related art are
omitted when it is deemed that they may unnecessarily obscure the
essence of the invention.
[0076] The apparatus described herein may comprise a processor, a
memory for storing program data to be executed by the processor, a
permanent storage such as a disk drive, a communications port for
handling communications with external devices, and user interface
devices, including a display, touch panel, keys, buttons, etc. When
software modules are involved, these software modules may be stored
as program instructions or computer readable code executable by the
processor on a non-transitory computer-readable media such as
magnetic storage media (e.g., magnetic tapes, hard disks, floppy
disks), optical recording media (e.g., CD-ROMs, Digital Versatile
Discs (DVDs), etc.), and solid state memory (e.g., random-access
memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), static random-access memory
(SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory
(EEPROM), flash memory, thumb drives, etc.). The computer readable
recording media may also be distributed over network coupled
computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and
executed in a distributed fashion. This computer readable recording
media may be read by the computer, stored in the memory, and
executed by the processor.
[0077] Also, using the disclosure herein, programmers of ordinary
skill in the art to which the invention pertains may easily
implement functional programs, codes, and code segments for making
and using the invention.
[0078] The invention may be described in terms of functional block
components and various processing steps. Such functional blocks may
be realized by any number of hardware and/or software components
configured to perform the specified functions. For example, the
invention may employ various integrated circuit components, e.g.,
memory elements, processing elements, logic elements, look-up
tables, and the like, which may carry out a variety of functions
under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control
devices. Similarly, where the elements of the invention are
implemented using software programming or software elements, the
invention may be implemented with any programming or scripting
language such as C, C++, JAVA.RTM., assembler, or the like, with
the various algorithms being implemented with any combination of
data structures, objects, processes, routines or other programming
elements. Functional aspects may be implemented in algorithms that
execute on one or more processors. Furthermore, the invention may
employ any number of conventional techniques for electronics
configuration, signal processing and/or control, data processing
and the like. Finally, the steps of all methods described herein
may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated
herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
[0079] For the sake of brevity, conventional electronics, control
systems, software development and other functional aspects of the
systems (and components of the individual operating components of
the systems) may not be described in detail. Furthermore, the
connecting lines, or connectors shown in the various figures
presented are intended to represent exemplary functional
relationships and/or physical or logical couplings between the
various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or
additional functional relationships, physical connections or
logical connections may be present in a practical device. The words
"mechanism", "element", "unit", "structure", "means", and
"construction" are used broadly and are not limited to mechanical
or physical embodiments, but may include software routines in
conjunction with processors, etc.
[0080] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language
(e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better
illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the
scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. Numerous
modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those of
ordinary skill in this art without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined not by the
detailed description of the invention but by the following claims,
and all differences within the scope will be construed as being
included in the invention.
[0081] No item or component is essential to the practice of the
invention unless the element is specifically described as
"essential" or "critical". It will also be recognized that the
terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has,"
and "having," as used herein, are specifically intended to be read
as open-ended terms of art. The use of the terms "a" and "an" and
"the" and similar referents in the context of describing the
invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are
to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless
the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, it should be
understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc. may be
used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not
be limited by these terms, which are only used to distinguish one
element from another. Furthermore, recitation of ranges of values
herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of
referring individually to each separate value falling within the
range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value
is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually
recited herein.
* * * * *