This category rewards materials innovation and embraces an enormous variety of different aircraft components. Entries can be an innovative, single technical component or material, but not a fully developed product.
Schott AG is a finalist with the Jade Reading Light, designed in cooperation with PriestmanGoode. This is the first in-seat reading light to be made of glass and is designed to feel like a premium smartphone surface, with touch control.
Canadian company e₂ip Technologies collaborated with the National Research Council of Canada to develop a panel based on In-Mold Electronics (IME), surface-printed electrical circuitry that reduces the weight and complexity of cabin electronics. The IME control element can be seamlessly integrated into its environment, taking on a range of functions such as adjustment of the aircraft seat.
The Experience Line Bridge from Diehl Aerospace extends the idea of “digital decor” via mood lighting, by enabling numerous colours and patterns which can even be projected onto curved surfaces. The system is retrofittable, making it suitable for a wide range of existing aircraft.
