GECO - Galley Efficient Catering Operations

The use of alternative energies for engines will significantly reduce the energy available in the cabin by 50%. The acceptance of future aircraft will largely depend on the passengers, and therefore, catering will play a crucial role. This innovative leap in catering equipment enables such significant energy savings.

The aim of the GECO network is to integrate the aircraft galley into a centralised system to release synergies by linking process chains and networking previously stand-alone systems. Structural improvements with integrated solutions reduce the weight and energy requirements of the aircraft galley. Additionally, manufacturing processes are being rethought against the background of a holistic product life cycle. The use of sustainable materials considers the goal of improving the eco-balance. Innovative lighting concepts aim to improve people's efficiency in maintaining their health.

Sub-project - Model-based design of a cyber-physical system-of-systems (CPSoS) architecture and efficient operating processes for galleys and catering

The aim of the TUHH sub-project is to achieve greater efficiency in galleys and climate targets through digitalisation. This involves creating a superordinate network architecture (Power & Data) and redesigning process chains (within and beyond the galley system boundary) for a digitally end-to-end networked cyber-physical system of systems in the aircraft.

The data and information from previously isolated systems will be reorganized within the system boundary of the galley. This applies to both the structures required for the operation of the galley and the operational processes that take place within it. Until now, galley subsystems such as the galley inserts and GAINs have been loosely coupled with the housing and the system interfaces provided there, such as water/waste, power, cooling, exhaust air, and lighting. The effectiveness of various processes can be improved through better interconnected systems. In addition to considering the constituent systems within the galley system boundary, it is important to improve the exchange of information and processes beyond the galley system boundary. This applies structually to the aircraft cabin level of a More Electrical Aircraft, as well as to the catering processes in cabin operations. In order to achieve the overall objectives of the project, the overall system capability must therefore also be ensured.

The methods and tools of model-based systems engineering (MBSE) can support the TUHH sub-project's goal in data-driven cyber-physical systems of systems (CPSoS), including cyber security. However, cyber security is not a focus of the institute in this project. The aim is to provide methodological and tool-related support, as well as technology transfer, for digitally networking constituent (sub-)systems and sharing data and information in an overall IT model that goes beyond classic system boundaries towards an adaptive CPSoS. When designing new concepts, topics related to architecture, operation, and corresponding process chains are being reconsidered and redesigned.

Project duration:               01. August 2023 bis 31. July 2026

Funding code:      20K2204E