Bosch Rexroth to supply motion platform for KLM’s new CEET

Bosch Rexroth has signed an agreement with KLM to supply the motion platform solution for one of its new Cabin Emergency Evacuation Trainers (CEETs), which is being manufactured by EDM.

Rexroth’s motion platform will be used to simulate flying conditions in a Boeing 777 aircraft cabin, with the CEET forming part of a completely renewed facility KLM is building at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The trainer is planned to start operating in 2019 after installation begins in 2Q18.

Each of the hydraulic cylinders in Bosch Rexroth’s motion platform has its own compact drive, so there’s no need for a separate hydraulic power unit. The hybrid solution, based on Bosch Rexroth’s Sytronix technology, can deliver ‘power-on-demand’.

“We have been using this technology for over five years and it has proven itself in a number of other applications,” said Hans ten Hagen, Manager of Motion Simulation Technology at Bosch Rexroth. “This is the first time it will be incorporated in a CEET, and we are confident that it meets all expectations.”

The Rexroth motion platform can simulate scenarios from turbulence to the plane dropping as well as specific emergency situations such as a nose wheel break. It can generate up to 1 G acceleration and can be locked in any required position. The cabin can also be raised by up to 5 metres, so that evacuation slides can be deployed for realistic evacuation training scenarios.

The platform also features a high number of built-in safety measures. Both mechanical and software motion-limiting features are utilised so the system cannot exceed its programmed limits. Drives are equipped with Bosch Rexroth certified ‘Safety on Board’ technology, which meets the standards for industrial robotics and provides additional security measures like guaranteed safe stop.

“We are committed to providing our cabin crew with the best training possible to deliver maximum safety for our customers,” stated Richard van den Nouweland, Project Manager of Flight Operations at KLM. “While it is possible to use a static cabin for crew emergency training, the motion platform from Rexroth allows us to more accurately simulate in-flight conditions for more realistic and extended scenarios.”

Tony Bermingham, Managing Director at EDM, declared, “EDM has collaborated very successfully with Rexroth on several projects already and we are very pleased to be working together with KLM on this project.”