Medical aircraft can take many forms. From accident scene evacuation helicopters to fixed-wing aircraft capable of carrying large numbers of passengers, we have seen it all over three decades of operation. One thing we have learned during that time is that modular design is a smart approach for aircraft interiors.
Modular design calls for manufacturing components in such a way as to make them easily changeable to accommodate alternate missions. In terms of medical aircraft interiors, the focus is usually on interchangeable medical equipment, storage solutions, and patient care systems. Modularity also makes it easier for an operation to switch between missions, maximizing the use of the aircraft.
The Basics of Modularity
LifePort is an industry leader in aircraft interiors. We design and build interiors for air ambulances, search and rescue aircraft, and aircraft with more unique mission specifications. By utilizing modular design, we can accommodate nearly any mission need without making significant changes to the aircraft itself.
A modular aircraft interior for medical transport would typically be designed with some key components:
- Quick-release stretchers and medical accessory rack
- Modular cabinets for equipment and supplies
- Advanced life support modules for vacuum, oxygen, and compressed air
- Flexible seating and storage
- Integrated electrical and gas systems with quick-disconnect interfaces
The priority in a modular system is being able to customize an aircraft interior by swapping modules in and out. With this approach, customers can have exactly what they need in an interior regardless of the aircraft they choose to fly.
Benefits of the Modular Approach
Building aircraft interiors from a modular perspective offers distinct benefits that only make medical transport better. Here are just some of the benefits our customers appreciate:
1. Rapid Reconfigurations
Each mission has its own unique parameters. When necessary, modularity allows rapid reconfiguration to meet the needs of the mission at hand. This allows for specified interior components depending on the anticipated needs of a particular event. Crews can take with them exactly what they need. Best of all, they can reconfigure interiors with minimal downtime.
2. Increased Flexibility
Modularity allows operators to tailor each aircraft interior to a specific type of mission. One aircraft can be customized for critical care transport while another is outfitted to respond to mass casualty events. Each mission is enhanced by an aircraft with an interior matching the needs at hand. In addition, a given aircraft can fill multiple roles thanks to modular interchangeability.
3. Design Efficiency and Cost Savings
Designing interiors with modular components improves design efficiency and cuts costs. Standardized modules can be manufactured less expensively without compromising quality and durability. Meanwhile, operators do not have to invest in large fleets of dedicated aircraft. Smaller fleets can accommodate different types of missions through reconfiguration.
4. Less Intrusive Maintenance
Since modular systems are interchangeable, aircraft don't necessarily have to be grounded when interior components need maintenance. The components are simply swapped out with replacements and then serviced separately. Aircraft can continue to fly uninterrupted.
5. Easier Upgrades
While modularity does not guarantee 100% future proofing, it does make upgrades easier. As new technology and equipment emerges, new modules can be built to accommodate it. The modules are interchangeable with their existing counterparts, making it possible to upgrade an aircraft rather than having to replace the entire interior.
Please know that modular systems are engineered to meet all regulatory and industry standards for safety and airworthiness. Operators do not compromise in any way by investing in a modular interior solution.
Medical aircraft interiors are a big part of what we do here at LifePort. We invite you to contact us for more information about our modular interiors. We also employ modular design solutions for VIP aircraft.
