That’s sort of the idea behind some new design initiatives for airline seating. Panasonic, and some others, are betting that by designing all the elements of a seat together (seat, inflight entertainment screen, power outlets and more) the elements can take up less space and work better together…and maybe keep cramped passengers a little happier.
Most current seats aren’t designed that way, with the airline choosing a seat from a seat manufacturer, an entertainment system from another, etc. The idea behind designing and building together is that more features are possible. For instance, Panasonic’s prototype “Jazz” seat reduces the underseat equipment box that takes footroom to a sliver. Charging can be built into the tray table. Contactless payment for onboard food, etc. wouldn’t take up screen space.
Seems like a good idea (you can read MORE at Forbes) but there is still the basic question: will it give us enough space to sit, eat, work, sleep.
