FEATURE: Design Explorer by Lufthansa Technik

We focused on designing a technically feasible concept. For example, all essential booth functions – such as oxygen masks, reading and projectors – had to be positioned so that there were no cutouts in the projection surfaces. We have therefore made a clear distinction between projection zones and function zones from the outset.

It was important to ensure optimum projection angles and optimum distances between projectors and projection surfaces, and to ensure that all projection surfaces are completely covered by the projection beam. All of this greatly influences the geometries of the overall design.

Additionally, we wanted the booth to have indirect background lighting that is independent of the projection system and that supports and complements the projections rather than disrupting or eclipsing/overpowering them. However, this basic lighting should also provide independent, pleasant and atmospheric illumination of the cabin, even when the headlights are completely switched off.

All of this has consequently led to the – perhaps at first counterintuitive – arrangement of projection surfaces. In fact, they protrude slightly into the room and are not (as one might expect) located behind a layer separating the physical interior from the virtual exterior. This allows a combination with basic lighting behind them.

For further optimization, large divan areas have been created in front of the window sashes, for example. On the one hand, they serve the comfort of the guests, but on the other hand, they also guarantee the distance of the passengers from the projection beams, so that no annoying shadows are created on the projection surfaces.

In addition to this spatial optimization for Diehl’s projection system, general analyzes of visual contexts within the general theme “explorers and adventures” also played a role in our design, e.g. touchpoints above and below the surface water, open terrain or in aerospace. A few of them have been incorporated into the design in such a way that – used inconspicuously – they provide an adequate framework for as many different projection themes as possible. To this end, many projection ideas have been explored that go far beyond what is shown so far and even reach into the realms of crypto art and gaming.

Are there any challenges with incorporating the sunroom?

The full structural design engineering and respective stress analysis to ultimately construct and certify such a conservatory is, of course, an extremely detailed work package that we would only address once the conservatory has finally been selected for a real customer cabin project, with the respective financing. . Nevertheless, in order to be able to show such a design feature in this concept, we have already made a thorough review in terms of engineering judgments on the main deck cargo door and necessary modifications regarding the floor structure of the aircraft. In this analysis, we were able to draw on our extensive experience in aircraft modifications of all kinds. The result was that such a veranda is indeed technically feasible and would not affect the operation of the aircraft.

The main deck cargo door required for the verandah could, for example, be from a brand new cargo aircraft such as the B767F, B777F or A330F. However, these aircraft lack conventional cabin windows, which we believe will always be requested by our customers, despite large-scale virtual windows. The most suitable option might therefore be to retrofit the cargo door in a new or used passenger aircraft. For several types of large aircraft (eg A330, B767 and B777), such modernization programs are already available on the market. Only the most modern wide-bodied aircraft with composite fuselages currently lack in-line adjustment solutions (B787) or modernization (B787 and A350) for the main deck cargo doors.

What are the challenges of implementing the Brabus Mobility Lounge?

Although this functionality will not be fully detailed until one of the next air shows, we indeed already expect some challenges in this area. Firstly, the respective cargo hold area will need to be specially equipped to allow passenger/crew access during the flight. Here we plan to build on existing solutions for crew rest areas on the lower deck which already incorporate certified solutions for stairs and cargo access hatches.

In addition to this, we expect more complex modifications and adaptations of systems such as the environmental control system or safety equipment such as emergency oxygen supply, lighting, communications, etc.

Another objective of the design of the mobility aspect will be to ensure the safe transport of equipment of all kinds. Here, for example, we will have to respect the existing characteristics and procedures for transporting cargo on board such aircraft. The respective safe locking of equipment or vehicles will be an essential prerequisite, for example.

Would you like to get into some of the other features and design details of the project?

To take full advantage of the discotheque theme of the projection system, the tables and chairs in the multifunctional living room can be removed and stored, leaving room for a full-fledged dance floor. The furniture supports will retract seamlessly into the cabin floor while the table top and chairs will need to be manually stowed by the crew.

Another highlight in our eyes is the multifunctional wellness/spa/gym area at the rear of the cabin, which includes, for example, a sauna and a steam shower. In the event of a medical emergency, this space can quickly transform into a flying hospital room. Besides the steam shower, the current Explorer layout includes a total of six conventional showers.

In addition, the aircraft is equipped with a gourmet kitchen at the front of the cabin that will be able to meet the highest culinary demands of 8 to 12 passengers.

Responding to the need for the best possible hygiene, such an aircraft can also be equipped with improved cabin air filtration systems and/or self-sanitizing surfaces.

What’s next for the project?

The next step for Explorer will be to finalize the design of the Mobility Lounge on the lower deck. Together with the car manufacturer Brabus, we have already developed some interesting ideas which we will detail in the coming months and show at one of the next air shows. The range of ideas that we already have even goes a little beyond the mobility aspect. Please stay tuned.

As charter agencies for such aircraft may have the demand for more passengers, we also plan to release a cabin layout that allows 40 or more passengers on board, while retaining the idea of ​​the Explorer concept.

Furthermore, we plan to use the Explorer concept as a kind of laboratory of ideas, based on which we will discuss and present a number of other ideas for the design and functionality of VIP cabins in the future.

Jan Grube is Sales Manager for VIP & Special Mission Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik. Parts of this interview were first published as part of the Design file in the January 2022 edition of Business Jet Interiors International.

Images: Lufthansa Technik AG