Boeing's new seat indicator system is super fly

The maker of the 787 Dreamliner aircraft, Boeing, has patented a system that will make it easier for passengers to return to their seats. Patent 8,896,456 covers what the Chicago-based aviation company calls a seat location system.

According to the patent, the invention is comprised of a method and apparatus for indicating a seat in the passenger cabin of an aircraft. Boeing said that when passengers get up from their seats — typically to use the restroom or to talk to another passenger — they often have trouble finding their assigned seat when they wish to sit down again.

"The embarrassment of appearing to be lost may occur when seats are difficult to find and may be embarrassing for the passenger," the company added.

The invented technology includes an indicator that is activated when the passenger leaves his seat. Boeing envisions a variety of potential indicators, including an incandescent light, a light emitting diode, a light projector, a display screen, a digital sign, electronic paper, electronic ink or "other suitable types of devices".

Boeing said this system, while planned for an aircraft cabin, could also be employed on a bus and train, or in auditoriums and stadiums.