24 January 2014
Greenpoint Technologies Obtains First Patent
Greenpoint Technologies, a premier VIP completions center for Boeing Business Jets (BBJ), announces its patent for the first ever ground-to-main deck Boeing 747-8 elevator, the Aerolift™, from the United States Patent Office. The patent marks a major milestone and illustrates the company’s commitment to innovative solutions for VVIP customers.
“The Aerolift™ elegantly and securely transports passengers from the ground to the aircraft’s main deck, eliminating reliance on traditional ground-based boarding and deplaning methods,” describes Greenpoint President and CEO Scott Goodey. “In fact, in remote locations it can be a challenge to gain access to an airstairs that can accommodate a plane that size.”
Greenpoint provides the Aerolift™ as a complete installation for the 747-8 which comprises a lift carriage, an automatic door on the fuselage, a power unit and lift structure, as well as significant structural modifications to the main, lower, and upper deck. Operation of the Aerolift™ is completely automatic and includes fail safe backup systems to ensure passenger safety. The design and engineering team sized the carriage to permit the transport of up to four passengers or a wheelchair and attendant, creating a dignified and secure boarding experience.
“From a security standpoint, the Aerolift™ is an enormous leap forward; the enclosed carriage descends directly to the tarmac reducing the occupant’s exposure from public view and allows close-quarters boarding of ground transportation,” states Greenpoint Chief Customer Engineer Mike Weisner.