Affordable fault detection for smaller aircraft
Fly-by-wire (FBW) control systems replace manual flight control of an aircraft. Aircraft movements are converted to electronic signals transmitted by wires, hence the term 'fly-by-wire'. Flight control computers then determine the appropriate movement of the aircraft - without the knowledge of the pilot - to stabilise the plane. Commercial aircraft are fitted with a digital flight control system (DFCS) using FBW technology to bring extra safety and operational benefits. The extra investment relative to the manufacture of a large plane is cost-effective but for a smaller aircraft is out of proportion to the overall production cost. The EU-funded project 'Affordable digital flight control system' (ADFCS) says it all. The researchers aimed to reduce the costs of FBW systems. Tools, methodologies as well as system architecture were overhauled to achieve this goal. Increasing the efficiency of the Flight control law (FCLAW) system was a primary objective. The FCLAW system prevents the pilot from overstressing the aircraft. The flight mode, for example, limits the speed to acceptable limits and does not allow a banking angle that is too steep. The team developed a general purpose simulation tool and a set of clear design targets that provide good handling qualities for the smaller plane. Following the loss of aircraft services, which can ultimately mean the complete shutdown of power from the engine, large aircraft have a ram air turbine to provide backup power. However, these are cost-prohibitive for smaller planes. For a cheaper alternative, an automatic back-up battery-powered unit was designed and the option of fuel-cell power was also investigated. ADFCS have taken state-of-the-art technology now standard on large commercial aircraft and modified the systems and architecture for a cost-effective option for all airlines. Passenger safety is the obvious benefactor. Smaller companies can also compete with the giants in the industry on an equal basis.
