This system was designed for new applications and replacement of spring type systems. This system has the advantage over spring type systems as it can be customized and trimmed out for each particular application. This system is typically lower in cost than a mechanical spring type system with better fedility. These systems can have a flight control model working with a Host or work in conjuction with MS Flight Simulator or X-Plane. 

This system utilizes modified Helical gearboxes coupled with AC motors. The backlash has been reduced to a minimum, but some friction and inertia is reflected into the flight controls. This system was primarily designed for FAA Level 1 through 5. These systems have been certified for use in CRJ Trainers.

Modular electronics coupled with a computer system and minimum cabling insure ease of installation, minimum maintenance and longevity. All parts are COTS and have been modified for use in this application. 

Standard design torque specifications listed below is for a typical transport aircarft (KingAir):

*Other peak forces are available. As indicated in the table, as peak force goes down, the friction is reduced proportionally. The force on the pushrod is dependent on the actuator and is determined at contract time for a specific system. 

Standard Specifications for this type of System include:

Interfaces:

Several interfaces are available: Bit 3, Ethernet, DR-11W (Concurrent), HSD (Encore), and UBC (Universal Bus Controller, Harris). Bit 3 is the easiest to use, Ethernet is the lowest cost for hardware. RS-232 can be used for some applications. 

Flight Control Software Model:

The software model is based on the flight model provided with centering springs added if required. The model is designed so that it can be tuned from the Host, thus it could be used for any light aircraft or transport. Except for setting the scale factors for position and force, this model will not need to be tuned to each specific application. 

Control Parameters from Host:

Dynamic pressure, roll rate, pitch rate, yaw rate, dynamic pressure divided by velocity, boost oil pressure, autopilot command, autopilot engage, weight on nose wheel, nose wheel velocity and nose wheel angle.

Safety:

The safety system in the control loader monitors the output to the DAC that drives the electronics. Monitoring the DAC allows the safety software to abort the system if the command to the electronics is excessive. In addition to the analog variables monitored by the safety software, the enable to the electronics has a one-shot that must be continuously retriggered by the software. Should the software halt for any reason, the one-shot will time out and the loader will abort. E-Stop safety switches can be utilized for a mechical abort.

Options:

This system can provide a nose wheel steering simulation and a seat shaker option. Auto-Pilot integration is available upon request.

Power Requirements:

115 (230) volts, 7 (3.5) amps peak per axis

115 (230) volts, 1 (0.5) amps quiescent per axis

115 (230) volts, 3 (1.5) amps for the processor