The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.
Many mobile platforms (such as trains, ships, aircraft and automobiles) employ stowage compartments in a cabin of the mobile platform to enable stowage of passenger items, such as carry-on baggage. With regard to commercial passenger aircraft, increased baggage stowage demands have required the stowage compartments to increase in size and load capacity. In addition, there is a drive to increase passengers “personal space” (i.e., headroom) in the cabin of the aircraft. The desire for increased “personal space” in the cabin has resulted in higher ceilings and the placement of storage compartments higher in the cabins.
The increased size and load capacity of the stowage compartments coupled with the higher cabin ceilings and higher stowage compartment placement in the cabins can make it difficult for some passengers to close the door on the overhead stowage compartments. Further, the higher placement of the compartments can make it difficult for a passenger to easily determine the status of the compartment, i.e. fully loaded, locked, or overweight. Accordingly, it would be desirable to have an electronic switch system that is capable of displaying data regarding the compartments, while facilitating easier opening and closing of the compartments.