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Explore the Move concept, created for Airbus

Adam GavineBy 4 Mins Read
The lightweight, adaptable seat structure reduces the on-board weight of the aircraft, resulting in fuel savings and lower emissions. The comfort level is aimed at short to mid-haul routes
The Move concept was developed in 18 months as part of an ongoing relationship between Layer and Airbus dedicated to rethinking the flying experience
The Move prototype comprises a lightweight perforated composite frame with a knitted, one-piece sling seat suspended over it. The seat cover is digitally knitted to form a smart textile with integrated conductive yarn and connected to a series of sensors and the Move app
The integrated system of conductive yarn, sensors and the Move app form a holistic system that allows passengers to measure and control variables – including temperature, seat tension, pressure and movement – to enable users to easily and intuitively maintain their comfort
The knitted seat cover has zones of various density knit that offer different levels of support to the body. Throughout the journey, the Move seat automatically adjusts based on passenger weight, size, and movement to maintain optimal ergonomic comfort. This is made possible by passing current through the conductive yarn to vary the seat tension. The passenger can make additional adjustments to the seat based on personal preference using the Move app
The Move app can be used to adjust the seat, as well as to engage different seat modes, such as “massage”, “mealtime” or “sleep”
The smart textile seat cover is constructed from a polyester wool blend – for heat regulation, robustness, and tactility – with integrated conductive yarn. The frame is crafted from aircraft grade aluminium and carbon fibre. This construction allows a significant reduction in the use of traditional foams which add weight and are difficult to recycle
The position of the seat is fixed – which addresses the issue of “legroom rage” caused by passengers unnecessarily reclining on shorter flights – and ergonomic comfort is instead maintained by allowing passengers to control the tension of the seat and understand how their movements can deliver greater comfort
Move can be configured by both airline and passenger pre-flight to fit a wide variety of passenger and inflight needs. Each seat back has a central island, containing the tray table, optional full Inflight Entertainment System (IFE), and a small pocket for storage of personal items and small digital devices. The safety card information is printed on the reverse of the tray table
The tray table is uniquely stowed vertically and has various modes. It rotates out to provide a half-size table; folds out to its full-size; and is height adjustable
The tray table design enables different modes of usage for different scenarios – from using the table as a work surface or for eating, to using it as a stand for watching tablet devices, or even as a surface on which to rest while sleeping. This flexible configuration also caters to a wide variety of passenger ages, heights and sizes
Laptop storage is located between the seats, which offers a secure place to store devices during take-off and landing and more leg room during the flight. The Move app will notify passengers if they have left a device in the pocket after landing through pressure sensitive-yarn
The Move IFE system is configurable, enabling airlines to offer different levels of inflight service and product based on cost, weight, and scenario. Options include the integration of a minimal OLED display in the seatback; the ability to plug in a third-party screen; or a connection point for passengers to connect their own tablet device
The armrests are completely stowable, offering the option of a bench-like seating format for passengers travelling as couples or in groups
Move features in the 2019 Seating Review. See the June issue of Aircraft Interiors International for more details, and more seat designs…

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Adam loves air travel, and since taking on the Aircraft Interiors International brand he has really enjoyed the opportunity to be involved with the latest aircraft and airline products before they are even launched. Adam co-ordinates the growth of the brand platform, and sits on various panels, including the Crystal Cabin Awards

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