Abstract
Searching for available storage space in overhead compartments on a plane often involves multiple iterations of opening, checking, and closing overhead storage compartments before a space suitable for storing the given piece of luggage is found. This manual process is inefficient and time consuming, and increases the time required for completing the flight boarding process. This disclosure describes the use of sensors in overhead compartments that detect availability of storage space. The available storage space in an overhead compartment is indicated to passengers via indicator lights and/or display screens of the in-flight entertainment system. Different colors can be used based on the amount of available storage space to aid in quick determination of compartments that are likely suitable for a given piece of luggage. The techniques can additionally enable detection of any luggage left behind in the overhead storage compartments when deplaning. The techniques can make boarding and deplaning more efficient and faster, thus helping airlines improve flight turnaround times and reduce travel delays.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Mittal, A., "Indicator Lights for Storage Space Available in an Airplane Overhead Compartment", Technical Disclosure Commons, (December 12, 2022)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/5561