Caynova

Air travel has evolved beyond convenience. It is today an experience tailored to each passenger's comfort and well-being. Modern aircraft are equipped with sophisticated climate control systems that can maintain a stable cabin temperature. However, personal comfort varies, and what feels warm to one passenger might be cool to another.

Temperature fluctuations can lead to discomfort, fatigue and even health issues, particularly on long-haul flights. This is why there is a need to maintain ambient seat temperature and regulate the temperature around a passenger's seat to ensure maximum comfort. The controller circuit ensures rapid attainment of the selected temperature point and maintains precise temperature control thereafter. Anatomically optimized stitching of the resistive wire ensures ideal heat distribution perceived by the passenger.

Caynova addresses this requirement. It enables airlines to offer a customizable onboard experience to passengers by providing the most compelling well-being seat solutions with its cutting-edge seat Heating and Cooling System (HCS).

“Our modular system technology allows airlines to configure fully customized solutions that support their brand and give them an edge over their competition,” says Cesar Uparela, Chief Commercial Officer of Caynova.

Turning Flying into Personalized Well-being

For travelers accustomed to their vehicle’s comforts, the question naturally arises—why should the luxury of seat temperature control be confined to the roads? Caynova's vision echoes this sentiment, aiming to offer passengers the option to customize their microclimate even amidst the clouds. From 180-degree lie-flat beds to ambient lighting and massage functionalities, airlines increasingly prioritize passenger comfort. Recognizing thermal comfort as the next frontier, Caynova is spearheading this advancement, collaborating with leading airlines on research and development (R&D) initiatives to bring thermal seating solutions to the aviation sector.

Caynova's HCS ensures that the passengers can personalize their heating and cooling preferences using the integrated Passenger Control Unit (PCU) embedded within the seat structure. Depending on the selected slider position, a smart control circuit and temperature sensors convert electrical energy into heat by running current through a resistive wire stitched onto the fire blocker material of the seat foam.

The system incorporates fail-safe measures to prevent harm to the passenger or the seat in the event of a malfunction.

For seat cooling, a pull system is employed. Warm air is drawn away from the seat surface (from around and underneath the passenger's body) using a low-noise blower (fan) and a trim bag. Caynova’s patented technology optimizes airflow across the seat surface. As warm air is removed from around the passenger, a cooling sensation is created on the body.

Additionally, moisture and sweat are extracted from seat covers and passenger clothing, providing a dry and refreshing seating experience. Like seat heating, the cooling feature includes a temperature control slider to achieve the desired cooling level. With a configurable communication interface compatible with industry standards such as RS485, LS CAN, and HS CAN, the integration of HCS with seat control electronics is smooth and efficient. It is designed to be installed on any seat structure, promising widespread accessibility and application across various aircraft configurations.

“At Caynova, our goal is to empower every passenger to create their ideal comfort scenario while traveling,” says Uparela. “Whether you prefer warmth or coolness, enjoy massage functions or seek customizable immersion zones in your seat, we cater to your preferences.”

Aviation Debut in 2024 on A350 Lufthansa Allegris Business and First Class

The Allegris cabin concept unveiled by the Lufthansa Group further solidifies Caynova's position as a game-changer in passenger comfort. With plans to equip HCS in over 100 new aircraft across the Lufthansa Group fleet, including Boeing 787- 9, Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-9, passengers can expect nothing short of luxury and comfort on their journeys.

Caynova is entering the service phase, with the inaugural flight A350 scheduled on May 1st on the route from Munich, Germany, to Vancouver, Canada. This marks the official introduction of its product, specifically on the flight’s business class seats. Its collaboration with Lufthansa signifies a shared vision of elevating the flying experience to new heights.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Passengers are truly embracing these features as they fulfil one of the most desired aspects of the passenger experience—personalized control over their own microclimate. The collaboration between Lufthansa and Caynova has truly raised the bar for new levels of passenger comfort and satisfaction within the aviation industry.

“Together, we are setting a precedent for enhanced in-flight experiences, focusing on individual comfort and well-being,” says Uparela.

Offering Customized In-Flight Experience

Besides enhancing the passenger experience, Caynova's HCS fosters a mutually beneficial synergy between airlines and seat manufacturers. By using the company’s solution to offer a customized in-flight experience, airlines can differentiate themselves in a competitive market while reinforcing their position as industry leaders.

In addition, leading seat manufacturers like Airbus Atlantic, Collins Aerospace and Thompson Aeroseating recognize the immense value of HCS and are seamlessly integrating it into their premium seats.
What’s assisting the company in achieving this success is its team, which boasts expertise in key areas, each contributing to the unique value proposition offered in the market. The team comprises tech innovators adept at staying ahead of industry trends. This expertise ensures that Caynova remains at the forefront of technological advancements, offering innovative solutions to clients.

Caynova fosters a culture of collaboration and problem-solving, with team members skilled in working together to tackle complex challenges. This approach ensures that it can address diverse client requirements effectively and deliver innovative solutions that drive business outcomes.

Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Caynova's innovative solutions are not just transforming how passengers fly; it is redefining the very essence of in-flight comfort. Its dedication to meeting customer needs and commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation is leading the aviation industry into a new era of personalized well-being.

“We anticipate that within a few years, offering seat heating and cooling will be essential for maintaining a premium status in the industry. Automotive innovations have paved the way, and aviation is poised to follow suit,” says Uparela. “Innovation is ingrained in our DNA, driving us to create something entirely new and unique.”

The company is continuously developing additional well-being features to enhance the passenger experience. It is committed to introducing unprecedented innovations in commercial aviation by collaborating closely with entrepreneurs, researchers, universities, airlines, seat vendors and other stakeholders.

Renowned airline customers from North America, the Middle East and Asia are currently evaluating the integration of Caynova's seat heating & cooling system into their existing and future line-fit and retrofit programs. The interest and consideration from these prominent carriers underscore the growing demand for enhanced passenger comfort and well-being in the aviation industry. Caynova's innovative technology promises to set a new standard for premium cabin experiences, and it is excited to collaborate with these esteemed airlines to bring this advanced feature to their fleets.

“At Caynova, we firmly believe that heated and cooled seats will become standard in premium cabins. This advancement is not just a trend; it's a significant upgrade for personal wellbeing,” says Uparela.