Collins Aerospace has unveiled a wireless connectivity solution for aircraft galley inserts, designed to support improved passenger service and provide operational efficiencies and cost savings.
Once connected, the galley inserts automatically transmit data in real-time from the aircraft to maintenance operations, differentiating between specific unit component issues and aircraft interface issues such as faulty water or power supplies. This is to enable the swift identification of unit faults, and thus decrease the time spent troubleshooting and reduce occurrences of misdiagnosing unit malfunctions.
In addition, Collins Aerospace said that when implemented across broader fleets, the data could predict failures before they happen, allowing airlines to better plan, mitigate faults before they occur and assess spare and repair inventory needs more accurately.
“Collins’ connected galley inserts solution will utilise artificial intelligence and big data to accurately analyse collected information to make informed decisions that best suit their operations – without excessive investment or aircraft modification time,” said Alison Davidson, vice president and general manager of cabin products for Collins Aerospace. “This unique solution is made possible by combining the expertise, resources and capabilities of our Connected Aviation Solutions business with our Interiors cabin products to provide airline customers consistent, reliable and actionable data.”
The connected solution can be installed without aircraft modifications and integrates with existing Collins galley inserts. The company shared that the wireless functionality integrates with existing inflight wi-fi networks, requiring a minimal amount of data to transmit information to maintenance staff and crew members, without overwhelming network services.