Freedom Seat

What?

Designed the Freedom Seat in collaboration with Molon Labe Seating, an FAA-compliant aircraft seating solution that allows passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) to remain in their wheelchairs during flights.
Developed an innovative sliding aisle seat mechanism that moves over the window seat, creating space for a 28” wide wheelchair to dock securely.
Ensured compliance with FAA TSO C-127c standards, focusing on safety, stability, and manufacturability while maintaining airline revenue by preserving standard seating configurations.

How?

Mechanical Design & CAD Development: Created a 250+ component CAD model assembly, including seat frames, locking mechanisms, and tray table integration.
Sliding Mechanism Design: Utilized telescopic tubes with IGUS bushings to enable smooth 100% travel, ensuring low-friction sliding without component removal.
Designed a two-factor lock (push-button seat lock + docking leg lock) to prevent accidental unlocking or tampering by passengers, ensuring only flight attendants can operate the seat transition.

Result

First-of-Its-Kind Accessibility Solution: Revolutionized PRM air travel with a fully integrated, FAA-compliant wheelchair-accessible seating system.
Enhanced Airline Compatibility: Maintains standard seating dimensions and airline revenue, ensuring seamless integration into commercial aircraft.
Usability & Safety Improvements: Designed for quick flight attendant operation, achieving a 30-second transition between standard and PRM configurations.
Successfully engineered, manufactured, and delivered a full-scale seating prototype in 7 months within a strict $5,000 budget.

Project Images

Two Seat Configuration