London-based design firm Layer created a prototype airplane seat design for Airbus that is centered around maximizing comfort. The airplane seats are knitted with a smart textile that passes electrical currents through conductive thread to automatically adjust the firmness of different components of the seat based on factors such as weight, size and movement. For even more control and comfort, the concept also envisions that travelers would be able to make additional adjustments, including temperature controls, using an app.
The companion app also plays a part in offering recommendations for those who have been sitting for long periods of time, especially if the smart seating system takes note of an awkward or contorted position that is held for a prolonged period of time. Additionally, the app also encourages passengers to drink water periodically and participate in simple stretching exercises that can be done from a seated position.
Conductive Airplane Seats
Airbus' Airplane Seat Design Concept is Knitted with a Smart Textile
Trend Themes
1. Smart Textile Seating - Disruptive innovation opportunity lies in developing smart textile seating for more comfortable and personalized travel experiences.
2. Conductive Thread Technology - Innovation opportunities can be explored in developing conductive thread technology to efficiently transmit electrical currents for use in various applications such as smart seating systems.
3. Health Monitoring Apps - Opportunity exists in developing health monitoring apps that can track and encourage healthy habits for prolonged periods of sitting, especially when used in conjunction with smart seating systems.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - Aerospace companies can leverage smart textile technologies to create more comfortable and personalized airplane seating systems for travelers.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Manufacturers can innovate in the production of conductive textiles to cater to the growing demand in the development of smart furniture and other consumer products.
3. Healthcare - Healthcare providers can explore the development of new health monitoring apps that can track healthy habits, especially for prolonged sitting and in conjunction with smart seating systems.