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MODULE 11 BOOK 2
PART 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
PART TWO
CONTENTS
2 AVIONICS SYSTEMS ................................................................... 2-1
2.1 AUTOMATIC FLIGHT ...................................................................... 2-1
2.2 AUTOPILOT SYSTEM ..................................................................... 2-1
2.2.1 Error Sensing ................................................................ 2-2
2.2.2 Correction ..................................................................... 2-2
2.2.3 Follow-Up ...................................................................... 2-2
2.2.4 Command ..................................................................... 2-2
2.3 AUTOPILOT INTERLOCKS .............................................................. 2-4
2.4 SERVOMOTORS ............................................................................ 2-6
2.5 SINGLE AXIS CONTROL SYSTEM ................................................... 2-8
2.6 TWO-AXIS SYSTEM ....................................................................... 2-8
2.7 THREE-AXIS SYSTEM.................................................................... 2-8
2.8 SENSING ATTITUDE CHANGES....................................................... 2-8
2.9 AUTOPILOTS & FLIGHT DIRECTOR SYSTEMS .................................. 2-10
2.10 ALTITUDE HOLD SYSTEM .............................................................. 2-11
2.11 AIRSPEED HOLD........................................................................... 2-12
2.12 ALTITUDE ALERTING SYSTEM ....................................................... 2-12
2.13 CONTROLS AND SELECTORS ......................................................... 2-13
2.14 AUTOMATIC FLIGHT DIRECTOR SYSTEM (AFDS) ............................ 2-15
2.15 MODE CONTROL PANEL ............................................................... 2-21
2.15.1 Power supplies A and B ................................................ 2-21
2.15.2 Microprocessor A and B ................................................ 2-21
2.15.3 Push-Button and Toggle Switches ................................ 2-21
2.15.4 Fluorescent Tube Control .............................................. 2-21
2.15.5 Liquid Crystal Displays & Control Knob Encoders ......... 2-22
2.15.6 AFDS Disconnect Switches ........................................... 2-23
2.16 AUTOPILOT FLIGHT DIRECTOR COMPUTER (AFDC) ....................... 2-25
2.16.1 Input Signal Selection ................................................... 2-25
2.16.2 AFDC Processors ......................................................... 2-25
2.17 PRIMARY FLIGHT COMPUTER (PFC) .............................................. 2-26
2.18 COMMUNICATIONS ........................................................................ 2-27
2.19 RADIO WAVES ............................................................................. 2-27
2.20 WAVELENGTH & FREQUENCY ....................................................... 2-28
2.20.1 Frequency Bands .......................................................... 2-29
2.21 CARRIER WAVE............................................................................ 2-29
2.22 AMPLITUDE MODULATION (AM) .................................................... 2-30
2.23 FREQUENCY MODULATION (FM).................................................... 2-31
2.24 RADIO WAVE PROPAGATION ......................................................... 2-33
2.24.1 Ground Wave Propagation ............................................ 2-34
2.24.2 Sky Wave Propagation .................................................. 2-34
2.24.3 Space Wave Propagation.............................................. 2-34
2.25 ANTENNAS ................................................................................... 2-34
2.26 MICROPHONES (MIC) ................................................................... 2-37
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STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
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PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
BLANK
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2 AVIONICS SYSTEMS
2.1 AUTOMATIC FLIGHT
The Automatic Flight Control Systems or AFCS, in modern jet transports, are all
uniquely tailored to the specific aircraft, but all share common features. For
example, the flight aerodynamics of a DC-9 are different from those of a Boeing
747 but both aircraft would most likely require an "attitude hold" mode of
operation.
In this case, the attitude hold feature is common to both autopilot designs, but
gains in the two autopilots will differ to accommodate the differences in the
aerodynamics of each aircraft. Each AFCS receives attitude and heading signals
from a vertical and directional gyro and has its own rate gyro/accelerometer
system to develop attitude and flight path stabilization signals. The AFCS
computers comprise an electronic "brain" that receives signals from its "senses"
to compute the proper responses and provides outputs to electric and/or
hydraulic actuators, which move the aircraft's control surfaces.
Today's modern autopilots are designed to provide pitch, roll, and yaw axis
stabilization around the pilot's desired reference attitude. To do this, the autopilot
system must detect changes in aircraft attitude and respond to those changes
more quickly and smoothly than its human counterpart.
3. Compares the two and produce a control signal if there is a difference or error:
4. Use the control signal to correct for the difference or error and Control the
speed of the correction.
The human pilot controls the aircraft by detecting a change in aircraft attitude by
one of his senses. His brain then computes the necessary corrective action
required and transmits a signal to his muscles to move the flight controls. Again
his senses will detect that corrective action has taken place and he will move the
flight controls back to where they started. A typical autopilot would have to do all
that the human pilot does, but would do it through electronic or electrohydraulic
devices.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Determines when the flight condition of the aircraft is differing from that
commanded by the pilot. Almost all-modern aircraft use a gyro of some type for
this purpose, and there are two ways that the error signal can be generated,
either by attitude gyros or rate gyros. The attitude gyros only detect how far the
aircraft is away from the settings; the rate gyros detect the rate at which it is
deviating and, hence, are more accurate.
2.2.2 Correction
This is the correcting input, sent to the actuators connected into the flying control
systems. This input is simply the command from the autopilot to reverse the
movement of the aircraft away from its set course. It does not have any idea of
when to stop the correction; this is the job of the follow-up mechanism.
2.2.3 Follow-Up
Is the detection mechanism, which senses that the aircraft is righting itself, under
the commands from the correction part of the autopilot. The mechanism reduces
the correction input as it nears the original selected position and, by the time the
aircraft is level, there will be no correcting input to the actuators.
2.2.4 Command
The command system is incorporated to allow the pilot to dictate which heading,
height, speed or rate of climb he wants the aircraft to follow. This can be a
simple 'Heading Hold' system which is controlled by a "bug" on the compass,
which the pilot sets with a knob on the instrument. Alternatively, the system
'Mode Control Panel' can have many different parameters commanded by the
pilot, such as autopilot modes, altitude, and vertical speed and airspeed/mach
number modes.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
PITCH SERVO
VERTICAL
GYROSCOPE
AUTOPILOT
COMPUTER AIRCRAFT
TRIM SYSTEM
COMPASS
GYROSCOPE
AIR DATA
COMPUTER
YAW SERVO
Basic Autopilot
Figure 1
The sensors take the place of our pilot's "senses" to detect various changes in
aircraft attitude. This information is fed to the computer, which calculates the size
of its output signal and which axis to send it on. The controller turns the autopilot
on and off and provides other system inputs not discussed here. Finally we come
to the loads which are the muscle of our system and move the aircraft's flight
control surfaces in response to the output signal of the computer. As the aircraft
responds to these signals, the sensors, through aerodynamic feedback, detect
the attitude change and tell the computer when the aircraft is back where it
should be.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A/P DISCONNECT A.C - D.C. MACH TRIM PITCH TRIM ATT REF
CAPT F/O
YAW
K1 DAMP MAN
ENGAGE AUTO
OFF
RELAY
AUTO
PILOT
ENGAGE
RELAY
K2
OFF
SERVO
RUDDER
CLUTCH
SERVOS
ELEVATOR
AILERON
OFF CLUTCHES
28V DC
Interlock Circuit
Figure 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
In the yaw damper only position, K1 relay will close and energize the rudder servo
clutch and engage it to accept signals from a gyro or computer to move the
rudder. With No 1 switch in the autopilot position, it will energize K1 relay subject
to all the interlock switches being made, switch No 2 will now engage the aileron
and elevator clutches, and switch No 3 will pick a voltage from switch No 2 and
energize the rudder clutch. So in the yaw damper position, it is yaw damper only,
and in the autopilot position it is yaw, pitch and roll engagement.
In the yaw damper switch position, only the pilot's disconnect and power valid's
are needed; in the full autopilot condition all switches must be made.
Firstly, the autopilot disconnects; either the Captain's or the First Officer's switch
will disconnect the autopilot. The switches are usually located on the control
column.
The power ac and dc valid's are qualifying that power is available and any loss of
power will disconnect.
Mach trim has to be engaged in this case. In some systems, Mach trim is on all
the time, whether the autopilot is engaged or not, and in others it is disengaged
when the autopilot is engaged.
The pitch trim switch is qualifying that auto pitch trim is available in the autopilot
mode. The reason that this is important is that if there is a mis-trim, the autopilot
can compensate for that situation until the autopilot is disconnected, either
through malfunction or deliberate action, or the aircraft could nose up/down rather
dramatically.
The attitude reference switch is checking that the valid's from the vertical gyro are
all correct, and the attitude references are available for the autopilot.
On more sophisticated systems, there are other interlock switches, for example
air data computer, compass system, hydraulic pressure monitoring and radio
altimeters.
Some systems, apart from those that use electrical interlocks, do not use an
electrical servomotor. Instead they use a hydraulic servo.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.4 SERVOMOTORS
The power output element of any automatic flight control system consists of
servomotors, or servo-actuators as they are sometimes called, connected into the
aircraft's primary flight control system circuits; the number of servomotors
employed is governed by the number of control loops required. In addition to the
actuation of primary flight controls, servomotors may also be used, in some
cases, for the actuation of the secondary flight controls provided for trimming
purposes and for yaw damping.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
SERVOMOTORS
(ACTUATORS)
FEEDBACK
PROCESSING
SIGNAL
AERODYNAMICS
PILOT’S DEMANDS
SENSING
ERROR
MODE SELECT
AUTOPILOT
CONTROLS
MANUAL
FLIGHT
ATTITUDE
SENSING
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2. Two-Axis System.
3. Three-Axis System.
In the single axis system, control is normally about the “Roll” axis. The control
surfaces forming part of this system are therefore the “Ailerons”. It is found on
small aircraft to provide lateral stabilization (wing levelling).
In the two-axis system, control is normally about the “Roll” and “Pitch” axes. The
control surfaces forming part of this system are therefore the “Ailerons” and
“Elevators”. These are found on medium sized aircraft and provide a means of
automatically controlling the aircraft’s heading and altitude.
In the three-axis system, control is about all three axes (Pitch, Roll and Yaw).
These systems are designed to meet the requirements for stabilization and
control of high performance category aircraft, and have a large number of modes
of operation.
Under automatically controlled flight conditions, the sensing of all changes in the
aircraft’s attitude is accomplished by referencing them against some form of
stabilized device. The device universally adopted for this purpose, from the
earliest types of control system to those now current, has been the gyroscope.
In addition to the gyro, it is also the practice in many cases to adopt a pendulous
device which although not purely stabilizing in function, can serve as a “back-up”
to a gyro by sensing short-term attitude changes brought about by the effects of
accelerations, vertical speed changes, and by side-slip.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 4 shows the gyro configuration for a three-axis automatic control system.
OF PRECESSION
DIRECTION
ROLL
AXIS
PITCH RATE
GYRO
YAW RATE
GYRO
AXIS
YAW
OF PRECESSION
ROLL RATE
DIRECTION
GYRO
OF PRECESSION
DIRECTION
PITCH
AXIS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Once the controller has been selected, and activated, the aircraft is controlled by
the Flight Director/Autopilot System. Rate gyros detect any movement of the
aircraft from the selected flight datum and will output a signal proportional to the
disturbance and in the opposite sense. The gyro output, along with other signals
from associated systems, are processed in the Flight Director/Autopilot
Computer, which in turn will give flight director information and or outputs to move
the control surfaces to bring the aircraft onto the correct flight datum.
AERODYNAMIC RESPONSE
FLIGHT FLIGHT
DIRECTOR DIRECTOR
ENGAGED COMMAND BAR
GYRO INPUT
ALTITUDE INPUT
SERVO
AUTOPILOT
ENGAGED
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
We know that any change in the aircraft's attitude will be detected by the
Autopilot system. This system alone will not be able to detect a pure vertical
displacement of the aircraft. To maintain an aircraft at a selected altitude we
require further sensing elements.
The purpose of the Altitude Hold system is to maintain the aircraft at a selected
height. The pilot will select "ALT" on the Flight Mode Panel (FMP) and the
system will maintain that altitude. The sensing element consists of a pressure
transducer, similar to that in the Air Data System. Any change in the static
pressure will be felt and an output produced, this output will be fed to the pitch
channel of the autopilot system to adjust the aircraft's altitude.
ANEROID
CAPSULE
STATIC
CONTROL
CHASER
MOTOR MOTOR
ERROR
AMP
ALT HOLD
SELECT
REF
TO PITCH
CONTROL
CHANNEL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Since airspeed hold sensors are used in conjunction with altitude hold sensors,
the methods of transmitting error signals are of a common nature. The only
difference is that whereas an altitude sensor measures only static pressure
changes, an airspeed sensor is required to measure Static and Pitot pressures.
The Altitude Alerting System allows the pilot to make changes to the aircraft's
altitude and provide alerts to the pilot when the selected altitude is reached. The
pilot sets the required altitude, from 0 - 50,000 feet, in steps of 10 feet, on the
Flight Mode Panel (FMP).
The altitude alerter gives the pilot an alert when the aircraft approaches the
selected altitude, entry alert ("C" Chord) and illuminates a warning lamp. The
system will then alert the pilot when the aircraft does not follow the selected
altitude with an exit alert ("C" Chimes) and illuminates a warning lamp. Figure 7
shows the different alerts.
1000 feet
EXIT ALERT
ENTRY ALERT ON
ON
“C” CHORD ENTRY ALERT
OFF
250 feet
SELECTED HEIGHT
250 feet
EXIT ALERT
ON
“C” CHIME
1000 feet
Alert Levels
Figure 7
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
S P L IT
A /P A /P N AV 1 N AV 2
M GSL A LT VS M A CH V - NA V IA S
O
D
0 6 8 2 4 6
E
C O U RS E C O U RS E
T UR B
S H DG
V /L B -L O C L -N AV H DG
E
L
M OD E SELE CTO R N A V IG A T IO N S E L E C T O R
R UD EL EV P IT CH
T EST R OL L
L R
A LT S E L D OW N
A
L A LT AR M 2 5 9.0 0
T
F EET
YD A /P
S
E
L YD 1 UP
YD 2
IN
A L T IT U D E S E L E C T O R A U T O P IL O T S E L E C T O R
In essence the bottom row selects lateral modes and the middle row
selects vertical modes.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The autopilot and flight directors use the information that is displayed on
the captain's HSI. With SPLIT selected NAV 1 supplies HSI 1 and NAV 2
supplies HSI 2. If NAV 1 is selected then both HSIs are supplied from
NAV 1 and a NAV 2 selection supplies both HSIs from NAV 2.
The COURSE selector knobs allow rotation of the course pointer on the
HSIs. A HDG knob provides remote selection of the heading cursor on
both HSIs. Two ratios are available, coarse and fine.
PITCH and ROLL controls and associated out of trim indicators (ELEV and
RUD) are also found on the controller.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the AFDS is to automatically control the aircraft’s attitude and to
supply indications to the flight crew in order for them to manually control the
aircraft’s attitude. The autopilot controls the aircraft’s attitude through: Takeoff
(Flight Director only), Climb, Cruise, Descent, Approach, Go-around and
Autoland.
In the Flight Director mode, the director bars (horizontal/vertical) show on the
Primary Flight Displays (PFD). The bars are used as guides to control the
attitude of the aircraft. Figure 9 shows the Primary Flight Display (PFD).
LNAV VNAV
HOLD
LOC G/S 5100
5200
200
A/P
180 6
20 20
5000 2
160 10 10 1
3
14 2 4800
10 10 1
120
4600 2
20 20
6
100
4400
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The mode select panel is the primary interface between the flight crew and
AFDS. Other flight crew inputs to the AFDS are; the disconnect switches and the
Go-around (GA) switches. Figure 10 shows the Auto Flight Director System
(AFDS) mode control panel for the Boeing 777 aircraft.
F/D ON
OFF
A/P
(c)
F/D ON
OFF
A/P
LOC
APP
1000
1000
LOC
APP
17000
17000
ALTITUDE
ALTITUDE
HOLD
HOLD
AUTO
AUTO
VS/FPA
+3288
FPA
VS/FPA
+3288
FPA
V/S
V/S
DOWN
UP
BANK
LIMIT
V/S
DOWN
25
TRK
V/S
UP
238
SEL
HOLD
HDG
HDG
AUTO
BANK
LIMIT
A/P DISENGAGE
25
TRK
V-NAV
L-NAV
FLCH
238
HOLD
SEL
MACH
HDG
HDG
288
AUTO
V-NAV
L-NAV
FLCH
A/P DISENGAGE
MACH
(a)
288
IAS
IAS
IAS
IAS
CLB
A/T ARM
A/T
ON
R
OFF
A/T
CLB
R
ON
A/T ARM
L
OFF
(b)
L
F/D ON
OFF
F/D ON
A/P
OFF
A/P
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A/P Engage Switch – Captain’s autopilot engage button, shows white when
engaged.
F/D Switch – Allows the selection of the Flight Director bars for display on the
PFD.
IAS/MACH Switch – Selects either IAS or MACH as the reference for speed hold
mode.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A/P DISENGAGE Bar - There are three toggle switches under the disengage
bar. The left switch controls the left AFDS only and the right switch controls the
right AFDS. The center switch controls the center AFDS. The center AFDC
cannot do a single autopilot engagement because it does not connect to any back
drive unit. It is there only as a back up for the left or right. The bar is normally in
the up position. Pushing the bar down will disengages all the AFDS.
DISENGAGE BAR UP
RIGHT AFDS SWITCH DOWN
(ONLY LEFT AND CENTER AFDS ENGAGED)
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Light Sensor – A photo light sensor on the MCP front panel monitors ambient
lighting. It controls the brightness of the LCD’s on the mode panel.
HDG/TRK Switch – This switch controls the reference for the Heading/Track
window.
Heading/Track Selector Switch – This control has two concentric selectors and
one push-button. The outer selector controls the bank angle, the inner selector
controls the value of heading/track required. The inner selector (push-button)
selects between Heading, or Track select modes.
HOLD Push Button – Engages the AFDS into Heading/Track hold mode.
Vertical Speed/Flight Path Angle Window - The window shows vertical speed
value (range is +6000 fpm to –8000 fpm). The flight path angle is +9.9q to –9.9q.
Altitude Selector – The control has two concentric selectors. The inner selector
changes the reference altitude in the window. If the selector is pushed while in V-
NAV, this will activate the altitude intervention.
The outer selector changes the window increment. With it selected to 1000
position, the inner selector changes the window at 1000 feet/detent. With the
outer selector in the AUTO position, the window change rate is 100 feet/detent.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A/P Engage Switch – First Officer’s autopilot engage button, shows white when
engaged.
F/D Switch – Allows the selection of the Flight Director bars for display on the
PFD.
LOC Push Button – Engages the ILS LOC mode. Captures and holds the
aircraft to a Localizer flight path.
APP Push Button – Engages the Approach mode. Captures and holds the
aircraft to a Glideslope (vertical descent) flight path.
ARINC AFDC
POWER SUPPLY INPUT/OUTPUT
“A” SIGNAL 429 RX “L”
PROCESSING
AFDC
ARINC “L”/”C”
429 TX &
MICROPROCESSOR “A” AIMS
A/T ARM
A/T F/D ON
L R
HDG 238
5
AUTO SEL
25
BANK
LIMIT
V-NAV
OFF
OFF
ARINC AFDC
429 RX “C”
LCD ON-OFF
DIPLAY PUSH
SW SWITCHES
LIGHTS & KNOBS
AFDC
MICROPROCESSOR “B” ARINC “R”
429 TX &
AIMS
INPUT/OUTPUT
POWER SUPPLY SIGNAL
ARINC AFDC
“A” PROCESSING 429 RX “R”
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
They receive 28V dc from the left and right 28V dc buses. The MCP functions
with either source. Power supplies A and B supply +12V, -12V and +5V dc to
their respective microprocessors and logic circuits. They also supply power
supply C, which is part of the fluorescent tube control.
To make sure all three AFDC use data from one MCP processor, all AFDS use
the microprocessor data sent to the master AFDS. When the left AFDS is
master, microprocessor A writes to the LCD displays. The right and center AFDC
receive microprocessor A data through the AFDC cross-channel buses.
When the right AFDS is master, microprocessor B writes to the LCD displays.
The left and center AFDC receive microprocessor B data through the AFDC
cross-channel buses.
Each push-button and toggle switch has two sets of contacts. One set connects
to microprocessor A and one set connects to microprocessor B. The LED
annunciators in the push-button switches also connect to each microprocessor.
The fluorescent tube control circuit supplies current to drive the tube and the tube
heater. There is a heater coil around the tube, which will operate when the
temperature is <40qF.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
There are four LCD windows, which show reference values. The values change
when the selector is rotated or when the AFDC command a new reference.
Microprocessor A and B drive each LCD. Each selector connects to the two
encoders and each encoder sends data to the on-side microprocessor. Figure 13
shows the LCD illumination.
FLUORESCENT
TUBE
LCD (TYPE)
DISPLAY
LCD Illumination
Figure 13
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The autopilot disconnect switches are on the outboard side of each control wheel.
The switch is a push-button type with multiple contacts. These switches manually
disconnect all AFDCs.
ELEVATOR
TRIM SWITCHES
AUTOPILOT
DISCONNECT
BUTTON
L R
A/P
HDG 238 V/S
IAS 288 +3288 17000
L-NAV
Page 2-24
AIMS A/P
OFF 5 25 AUTO 1000
DOWN
BANK LOC
AUTO
SEL F/D ON
CLB V-NAV LIMIT
F/D ON ON
APP
A/P DISENGAGE
A/T VS/FPA
OFF
FLCH HOLD HOLD
OFF UP
TO/GA Collins
AUTOMATIC FLIGHT
DIRECTOR
COMPUTER
DISC (AFDC)
BACKDRIVE
Figure 15
PART 2
ACTUATORS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
ACTUATOR
CONTROL
SECONDARY ELECTRONICS PCU
ATTITUDE &
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
There are three AFDC within the AFDS each containing the following:
3. Processor A.
4. Processor B.
5. Processor C.
Each ARINC and discrete input/output module monitors and selects input signals.
Each I/O module monitors the validity of the signal first, if validity check is good,
the I/O section selects the signal by one of the following methods:
1. Mid value selection which uses the middle value of the three signals.
Radio Altitude (RA) and ILS are examples of signals selected using this
method.
2. Priority selection for signals with two sources (left/right). Example; the Air
Data Inertial reference Unit (ADIRU) is the normal source of air/inertial
data. If the ADIRU fails, the AFDC selects the Secondary Attitude Air Data
reference Unit (SAARU).
The AFDC has three processors (A,B and C). Processor A and B receive digital
backdrive commands from the Primary Flight Computers (PFC). They convert
the digital backdrive signals into analogue signals for output to the backdrive
actuators.
Processor C calculates the autopilot and flight director control laws, test and data
loading, engage/disengage logic and failure detection/fault response monitoring.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The PFC receives commands from the AFDC. The PFC calculates and sends
surface position digital commands to the Actuator Control Electronics (ACE).
The ACE converts these signals to analogue and sends the signal to the Power
Control Units (PCU). The PCU move the flight surface, sending positional
feedback signal to the ACE, which converts the feedback signals into digital and
sends it to the PFC. The PFC then calculates and sends the digital feedback
signals to the AFDC. The AFDC converts the signals into analogue, and sends
these signals to the backdrive actuators, which moves the control column, control
wheels and rudder pedals.
ANALOG
ANALOG
POWER
CONTROL
UNIT
POSITION
TRANSDUCER PRIMARY CONTROL
FLIGHT SURFACE
BACKDRIVE COMPUTER
ACTUATOR
ACTUATORS
CONTROL
ELECTRONICS
ANALOG
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.18 COMMUNICATIONS
Radio signals emanate from the antenna of a transmitter partly in the form of
“Electromagnetic waves”. During radio transmission, the antenna in addition to
the electromagnetic field also generates an electric field. The two fields radiate
from the antenna at the speed of light, which is approximately 186,300 Mls/sec
(300,000,000 mtr/sec). Since radio waves travel at the speed of light, as soon as
the transmitter starts to transmit, its signal may be detected instantly hundreds or
thousands of miles away, depending on the power of the transmitter and the
nature of the wave being transmitted.
AERIAL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The length of a radio wave depends on its frequency. Like an ac sine wave, the
wave emanating from an antenna increases to a maximum in one direction, drops
to zero, and then increases to maximum in the opposite direction. The
wavelength, indicated by the Greek letter lambda (O), is the distance from the
crest of one wave to the next. Since the wave travels at the speed of light
(300,000,000 mtr/sec) the wavelength in metres is equal to 300,000,000 divided
by the number of cycles per second (hertz).
RADIO WAVE
CYCLE
FREQUECNY = NUMBER OF CYCLES PER SECOND
VELOCITY
WAVELENGTH =
FREQUENCY
VELOCITY = SPEED OF LIGHT
VELOCITY
FREQUENCY =
WAVELENGTH
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Frequency Bands
Table 1
Above these radio frequencies lie the various light frequencies. Infrared and
white light are currently being used for some information transmission at
frequencies between 109 – 1011 KHz. Below the radio frequencies are the
audible sound waves, ranging from 20 Hz to 15 KHz. The audio frequency range
for radio transmission is between 300 Hz – 3 KHz and is known as “Commercial
Quality Speech”. Without special techniques, the transmission of these low
frequencies would cause two major problems:
The energy that carries the intelligence of a radio signal is called the “Carrier
Wave”. The frequency of this carrier wave may be only a few hundred kilohertz
(VLF) or several thousand megahertz (UHF). Carrier waves are usually in the
“Radio Frequency” (RF) range, which is in excess of 20 KHz. Frequencies below
20 KHz are in the “Audio Frequency” (AF) range.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
CARRIER FREQUENCY
AUDIO FREQUENCY
TRANSMITTED AMPLITUDE
MODULATED SIGNAL
Amplitude modulation
Figure 19
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AUDIO WAVE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
1KHz AUDIO
10.5KHz 11KHz
9.5KHz 9KHz
10KHz CARRIER
FM Modulation
Figure 21
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The carrier wave emitted by a radio transmission antenna may be broken into
three different propagation categories:
1. Ground wave.
2. Space wave.
3. Sky wave.
IONOSPHERE
V E
VE
WA
A
CE
W
A A VE
SP
Y
EW
SK
AC
SP
E
AV
W
ND
OU
GR
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Ground waves tend to be held near the earth’s surface and bend with the
curvature of the earth. Ground waves travel a distance limited by the
transmitter’s output power, antenna design, local terrain, and current weather
conditions. Typically, a relatively powerful transmitter is capable of sending
ground waves a distance of 1,000 miles.
Sky waves tend to travel in straight lines, but may also be reflected off the
ionosphere layer in order to reach the receiver. Because of this method, sky
waves may produce a skip zone, where no reception is possible. Neither the line-
of-sight nor the reflected wave can be received in the skip zone.
The ionosphere’s density and distance from the earth determine the skip-zone
range and the exact frequencies that are reflected. The ionosphere is a layer of
ionized gases that surround the earth at an altitude of between 20 – 250 miles,
varying with the time of day, season and location. The density of this layer is also
affected by the sun’s solar flare activities. All these factors will determine the
frequencies that are reflected and their angle of reflection off the ionosphere.
2.25 ANTENNAS
The size and design of antennas vary in accordance with the frequency or
frequencies of signals being handled. As frequencies increase the wavelengths
decrease and the length of the antenna must be matched as closely as possible
to the wavelengths of the carrier waves. On aircraft the size of the antenna is
normally ¼O.
Most aircraft communication antennas are of the “Blade” type. The radiating
surface is ¼O and is protected by a polyurethane rubber coating. They are
generally termed “Broad band” antennas, meaning they will receive a wide range
of frequencies. The required frequency is filtered out from all the others by
circuitry within the transceiver. Figure 23 shows a typical VHF blade antenna.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
ANTENNA
CAP
ANTENNA
EROSION
BOOT
AIRCRAFT MOUNTING
SKIN SCREWS
TUNING
CABLE
ANTENNA
CABLE
VHF Antenna
Figure 23
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
ANTENNA
COUPLER
RECEIVER
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the mic is to convert sound energy into electric energy. This
process uses the dynamic energy of the sound wave produced by the pilot. The
sound strikes a diaphragm, and the sound energy is converted into mechanical
energy. This mechanical energy is then converted into electric energy. There
are four common aircraft microphones:
4. Electrostatic Microphone.
The carbon mic contains tiny carbon granules compressed in a sealed chamber.
The voice diaphragm vibrates the carbon chamber, changing the resistance of
the carbon granules. A current that passes through the granules changes in
amplitude as the sound wave moves the diaphragm. Figure 25 shows the
operation of a carbon microphone.
CARBON CONDUCTING
GRANULES SURFACE
CERAMIC
CUP
DIAPHRAGM
INSULATED
PLUNGER
Carbon Microphone
Figure 25
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The crystal mic is a voltage generator which utilizes the piezoelectric properties of
a quartz crystal. When the crystal is subjected to mechanical pressure it
develops a potential across two of its faces. This potential is dependent on the
pressure exerted on the crystal. This in turn produces an output, which
corresponds exactly to the applied pressure wave.
DIAPHRAGM ELECTRODES
CRYSTAL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The moving coil microphone is again a type of voltage generator, this time
working on the electromagnetic-induction principle. The diaphragm is attached to
a coil, which is free to move in or out of a strong magnet. Movement of the
diaphragm causes the coil to cut the magnetic flux and a voltage is induced into
the coil. Figure 27 shows the operation of the moving coil microphone.
MAGNET
COIL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DIAPHRAGM AIRGAP
MOVEABLE
PLATE FIXED
PLATE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.27 EARPHONES
The earphone is a transducer that converts electrical waves into sound (pressure)
waves. The waveform of the sound wave should be identical to the electrical
wave in all factors but amplitude. Earphones therefore, merely perform the
reverse process of a microphone. The same principles apply to earphones as
they did for microphones.
HEADBAND
PRESS-TO-TALK
SWITCH
MOUTHPIECE
EARPIECE
ONLY USED TO
MONITOR AUDIO
NO TALK FACILITY
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
HEADBAND
EAR PIECE
TRANSDUCERS
AUDIO TUBES
AMPLIFIER
BOOM MIC
JACK PLUG
HEAD
RESTRAINER
MASK
OXYGEN
COMMUNICATION
CONNECTION
JACK PLUG
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DEMODULATOR
DETECTOR &
FREQUENCY
AMPLIFIER
RADIO
MODULATED
FREQUENCY
AMPLIFIER
RADIO
FREQUEUNCY
AMPLIFIER
AUDIO
MODULATOR
LOUDSPEAKER
FREQUEUNCY
AMPLIFIER
FREQUENCY
OSCILLATOR
AUDIO
FRQUENCY
AMPLIFIER
RADIO
RADIO
MICROPHONE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Aircraft communication systems normally use the VHF wave band within a
118.000 MHz to 136.000 MHz range. Within this range the channel spacing was
previously 25 KHz, but because of the high demand for more channels it is
currently being reduced to 8.33 KHz. The VHF system provides short-range
(space wave) voice communication between:
2. Aircraft to aircraft.
All modern aircraft have at least two VHF systems, on the larger aircraft, there is
also a third system fitted.
Each VHF communication system receives RF energy via its antenna, processes
the RF signal and sends the resulting AF to the digital audio control system, and
the SELCAL (see later). During transmission, microphone audio from the flight
compartment is processed by the VHF communication system and the RF energy
is transmitted via the antenna. Control of the frequency selection is provided on a
VHF Communication control panel. Figure 33 shows a VHF Radio system block
schematic.
AUDIO OUT TO
INTERPHONE
VHF
AERIAL
RF IN & OUT
MICROPHONE
VHF
INTERPHONE COMMUNICATION
TRANSCEIVER
1ST OFF
VHF
CONTROL
PANEL
CAPT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
There are two sets of concentric frequency select knobs. On each set, the out
knobs select the 2nd and 3rd digits and the inner knobs select the 4th and 5th digits.
Above each set of knobs is a frequency select readout for displaying the selected
frequency. A two position VHF COMM TRF (transfer) switch allows the selection
of one of the pre-selected frequencies. The unselected frequency window has a
bar obscuring the readout.
The COMM TEST switch is a push button switch that enables confidence testing
of the receiving circuits in the system. Figure 34 shows a VHF control panel.
VHF COMM
120.60 118.30
TFR
COMM
TEST
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The audio control panels provide microphone selector pushbuttons and listen
switches for the VHF communication systems. The mic selector pushbuttons
connect the microphone to the desired VHF transceiver. The audio volume
controls allow the selection of audio from the transceivers to heard over the flight
compartment speakers or headphones.
MIC SELECTOR
SERV FLT
1 - VHF - 2 HF - 1 INOP PA
INT INT
MASK B
V R
R/T I/C
BOOM
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the transceiver is to transmit and receive RF signals for voice and
data communication. It is a solid-state device with a minimum transmit power
output of 20 watts.
2.30.1 Control
The transceiver is tested using front panel controls. The “squelch disable”
pushbutton allows the testing of the receiver section of the transceiver. An amber
“transmit monitor” lamp illuminates whenever the transmitted output power
Exceeds 10 watts. There are also “phone” and “mic” jacks available for the
monitoring of the receiver and transmitter.
ON WHEN
TESTS THE
TRANSCEIVER
RECEIVER
POWER > 10W
SECTION OF
THE TRANSCEIVER
SQUELCH TRANSMIT
DISABLE POWER
PHONE MIC
MONITORING
OF AUDIO OPERATION OF
OUTPUT TRANSMITTER
VHF Transceiver
Figure 36
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the VHF antenna is to radiate and intercept radio signals in the
VHF frequency range (118.00 – 136.00 MHz). The No 1 VHF antenna is located
on top of the fuselage and VHF No 2 antenna is on the forward underside of the
fuselage. Figure 37 shows the VHF antenna location on a Boeing 737 aircraft.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The service interphone system allows communication between the flight crew,
cabin attendants, ground crew or maintenance personnel. Jacks for plug-in
microphone and headsets are installed at various locations in the aircraft. These
jacks allow ground personnel to communicate with each other. An on/off switch
on the aft overhead panel on the flight deck controls the external jacks. Handsets
are available at the forward and aft attendant’s panels. Figure 38 shows the
layout of the Boeing 737 interphone system.
ACCESSORY
INTERPHONE
AUDIO
SERVICE
UNIT
OFF
ON
ATTENDANT’S
AUDIO SELECTOR PANEL
MKR
PA
STATION
B
FLT
INT
AFT
V
INOP
SERV
INT
MASKS
BOOM
MIC SELECTOR
1 - ADF
INOP
HF - 1
ATTENDANT’S
FORWARD
I/C
STATION
1 - NAV - 2
1 - VHF - 2
R/T
CONTROL
PILOT’S
STAND
MIC
FLIGHT COMPARTMENT
EXTERNAL POWER
WHEELWELL
LIGHT
SPEAKER
SERVICE
NOSE
INTERPHONE
NORM
ON
PANEL
FLIGHT
PILOT
CALL
EXTERNAL
HEADSET
POWER
IN USE
NOT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The handsets provide the facility for introducing microphone audio into the
system and for listening to audio from the systems other stations. The handsets
resemble the common hand-held telephone receiver. A pushbutton switch is
located on the grip to activate the mic. Handsets are permanently installed at
each attendant’s station. Figure 39 shows the forward attendant’s interphone
panel as fitted to the Boeing 737 aircraft.
LIGHTS
MUSIC SYSTEM
VOLUME CONTROL
MUSIC ATTENDANT’S
CAPTAIN’S CALL LIGHT
CALL LIGHT CALL SYSTEM
HANDSET
HANDHELD
MICROPHONE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The crew call system is a three-way alerting system that signals crew members to
use the interphone system. The three types of crew call are:
Captain’s Call – A “Hi tone” chime sounds once and the Captain’s
CALL light illuminates. This advises the flight crew that a call has been
initiated from the attendant’s panel or ground crew panel.
Ground Crew Call – When the ground crew call is initiated in the flight
compartment, a call horn sounds in the nose wheel well.
Figure 40 shows the ground crew’s interphone panel, which is located in the nose
wheel bay.
INTERPHONE
EXTERNAL
POWER
FLIGHT SERVICE
NOSE
PILOT WHEELWELL
ON
NORM
NOT CALL
IN USE
LIGHT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The passenger address (PA) system provides a means of transmitting flight crew
announcements, boarding music and chime signals to the passenger cabin.
Audio inputs from the pilot’s, attendants and tape reproducer are prioritized by the
PA amplifier. The priority is:
1. Pilots.
2. Cabin attendants.
3. Pre-recorded announcements.
4. Boarding music.
The audio with the highest priority is amplified and distributed to the passenger
cabin speakers, attendant’s speakers and audio integration.
Figure 41 shows the layout of the PA system for the Boeing 737 aircraft.
PA
AMPLIFIER
PA SPEAKER
PA MIC
PA SPEAKERS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Provides the flight crew with a means of controlling all radio communications,
interphone and PA selection and Navigation receiver’s audio signals. Both pilots
have their own individual system and control panel. Figure 42 shows a block
schematic of the audio integration system.
MKR
PA
R
B
FLT
INT
1 - ADF
BOOM
MASKS
INOP
HF - 1
I/C
1 - NAV - 2
1 - VHF - 2
R/T
HAND
MIC
OXYGEN
MASK
SWITCHES
CONTROL
HEADSET
& BOOM MIC
HEADSET
SPEAKER
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the INT/MIC switch is to provide PTT input for the boom or
oxygen mask microphones. The switch is a three-position switch on the outboard
horn of the captain’s and first officer’s control wheel. In the MIC position, mic
audio is directed to the selected communication system. In the INT position, mic
audio is connected directly to the flight interphone system.
Figure 43 shows the control wheel INT/MIC switches of a Boeing 737 aircraft
MIC/INT SWITCH
PRESS-TO-TALK
MICROPHONE
INTERPHONE
120.60 118.30
TFR
NO 1
COMM
VHF COMM
TEST
TRANSCEIVER
MIC SELECTOR
SERV FLT
1 - VHF - 2 HF - 1 INOP PA
INT INT
SERV FLT
1 - VHF - 2 HF - 1 INOP PA
INT INT
Figure 44
AEROPLANE
R/T I/C
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
BOOM
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
VHF COMM
TEST
Page 2-55
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
PART 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
To operate the system, apply power to the transceiver and allow a short warm up
period.
Select the frequency of the ground station that is going to be used and 'listen out'
to ensure that no other transmissions are taking place.
With the microphone close to the mouth, key the transmitter with the ac PTT
switch and speak slowly and clearly into the microphone to establish 2-way
communication with the ground station.
Identify your position by airline and aircraft registration using the standard
phonetic alphabet;
1. A = alpha.
2. B = Bravo etc
Once you have finished speaking, release the PTT switch and listen for the reply,
ensuring that it is loud and clear. Complete the check by confirming to the
ground station the receipt of the reply.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
1. AM – AMPLITUDE MODULATION.
In the AM mode the system transmits a carrier with amplitude modulation. In the
SSB mode the carrier and the lower side band is removed. The system only
transmits the upper side band (USB). Figure 45 shows a block schematic of a HF
system.
POWER &
HF COMM CONTROL
TUNING &
CONTROL CONTROL HF COMM
PANEL
ANTENNA
RECEIVE COUPLER
TRANSMIT
MIC
KEY
AUDIO SELCAL
OUT SYSTEM
HF COMM
TRANSCEIVER
HF Communication
Figure 45
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A HF aerial is of quite a different technology compared with most other aerials for
two reasons. One is the power output of the Transmitter (400 watts) the other
reason is that the quarter wavelength (O/4) distance is about 40 metres at 2 MHz
but only 2.5 metres at 30 MHz, so broadband aerials are not possible. Instead all
HF aerials are fed from an aerial coupling unit to attempt to electrically lengthen
or shorten the aerial for optimum matching, especially to the transmitter. Figure
46 shows the location of the HF antenna and coupling unit.
HF ANTENNA
HF COUPLER
UNIT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
1. OFF.
Note: LSB is reserved for military operations and normally, civil aircraft have the
facility to select USB.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2 .0 0 0
LSB AM
USB
OFF
RF
SENS
FUNCTION RECEIVER
100 KILO HERTZ 10 KILO HERTZ
SELECTOR GAIN
SELECTOR SELECTOR
SWITCH CONTROL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The selective calling (SELCAL) system allows a ground station to call an aircraft
or group of aircraft using HF and VHF communications without the flight crew
having to continuously monitor the ground station’s frequency.
A coded signal is transmitted from the ground station and received by the
aircraft’s HF or VHF transciever tuned to the appropriate frequency. The output
code is fed to a SELCAL decoder, which, activates aural and visual alerts if and
only if the received code corresponds to the code, selected in the aircraft.
Figure 48 shows the SELCAL System layout.
VO
E IC
C OD E
CO
AL M
LC M
UN
SE IC
AT
IO
N
AIRLINE DISPACH
COMMUNICATION
ARINC ARINC
REMOTE VOICE
STATION STATION
SELCAL Operation
Figure 48
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
There are a total of 10920 codes available and these codes are assigned to
airline organisations, who in turn assign codes to their individual aircraft either on
a flight number or aircraft registration basis.
The SELCAL control panel consists of SELCAL warning lamps annotated to the
associated radio system, i.e. VHF 1, VHF 2, HF 1 and HF 2. It also provides a
means of resetting the SELCAL, thus cancelling the visual and audio indications.
The panel also has a self-test button to allow testing of the SELCAL system.
Normally located along with the control panel is the SELCAL code selection
panel, this is used to set the aircraft’s SELCAL code.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The SELCAL decoder determines if the aircraft’s four-letter code has been
received and produces alert signals in the form of indicators on the SELCAL
control panel and audio tones to the audio system. The alerts are cancelled by
pressing the corresponding alert light on the SELCAL control panel. A self-test of
the alerts lights and audio warnings is carried out using the self-test button on the
SELCAL control, panel. Figure 50 shows a block schematic of the SELCAL
system.
LAMP DRIVES
5 WIRE
CODE
SELECT
RESET
TEST
AUDIO SYSTEM
CHIME LAMP
VHF 1 SWITCH
SWITCH
LAMP
VHF 2
SWITCH
VHF 4 LAMP
SWITCH
VHF 5 LAMP
INTERRUPTER SWITCH
CIRCUIT
ELECTRICAL
SUPPLY
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The CVR records the last 30 minutes of the flight deck audio on continuous
magnetic tape. All voice communication is recorded. Operation is automatic
from engine start until five minutes after engine shutdown. The CVR receives
sound from the flight compartment and audio signals from the digital audio control
system. The voice recorder continuously records the sound and audio. Sensing
of the “aircraft-on-ground” and “parking-brake-set” is used to permit bulk erasure
of the voice recording.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
TAPE AND
MOTOR
ERASE
HEAD
BRAKE ON
PARKING
RECORDING
HEADS
TEST
GROUND
A/C ON
3
1
ERASE
MIC
METER
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The control panel allows remote monitoring and testing of the voice recorder unit
detects flight compartment sounds and conversations. It also controls bulk
erasure of the recording tape. It contains an area microphone (capacitive) which
senses compartment audio. Pressing the erase button for a minimum of 2
seconds erases the tape. This is only possible when the aircraft is on the ground
and the parking brake is set.
Pressing the TEST switch tests all 4 recording channels in sequence. The meter
indicates green during TEST if the test tone is recorded at a sufficient level. The
headset jack is used to monitor all 4 recorded channels. Figure 52 shows a CVR
control panel.
2 4 6 8
0 10
TEST ERASE
HEADSET
600 OHMS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The voice recorder unit makes a 30 - minute recording of four audio channels on
a continuous polyamide tape. The recorder is shock and heat resistant and
contains an underwater locating beacon. It has a TEST switch to initiate an
internal test signal to be recorded. A phone jack monitors the recording as it is
being recorded. The Status indicator provides monitoring of the tape transport
operation and the recorded signal during test. Figure 53 shows a voice recorder
unit.
TEST
PHONE
STATUS IND
UNDERWATER
LOCATING
DEVICE
BATTERY
LIFE LABEL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The VOR operates in the frequency band from 108.00 to 117.95 MHz. The VOR
ground-station transmits a combination of signals in all directions (omni-
directional). The VOR ground station modulates two signals of 30 Hz each on the
carrier. One 30 Hz signal is the reference signal and the other is the variable
signal. The phase shift between the reference signal and the variable signal
depends on the radial over which the two signals are transmitted. The radial in
the magnetic north direction has a phase shift of 0 degrees, the radial in the
magnetic east direction (90 degrees) has a phase shift of 90 degrees, the radial
in the magnetic south direction (180 degrees) has a phase shift of 180 degrees,
etc. In this way the VOR ground station identifies each radial with the phase shift
between the reference and the variable signal.
270º 090º
VOR
BEACON
180º
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The radial information is transmitted from the ground station to the aircraft. When
the VOR system in the aircraft detects the phase shift between the reference and
the variable signal it knows on which radial the aircraft flies. For the bearing
information (opposite direction from aircraft to ground station) the VOR system
adds 180 degrees. In this way the bearing to the station depends on the detected
radial from the station.
The phase shift between the reference and the variable signal identifies a radial
with respect to the magnetic north. The bearing, which is a result from the
detected radial, has therefore also a relation with the magnetic north. So the
bearing output from the VOR system is a MAGNETIC bearing output. This
information is displayed on a Radio Magnetic Indicator (RMI). Figure 55 shows a
schematic of the VOR system.
RECEIVED
VOR SIGNAL
30Hz AM
ROTATION
INTERMEDIATE DETECTOR
FREQUENCY
AUDIO
RF IF DETECTOR TO PHASE
DETECTOR
RADIO
FREQUENCY
30Hz FM
REFERENCE
DETECTOR
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
1 1 1 . 25 ACT
1 1 1 . 30 PRE
I
STBY L
NORM
VOR/DME S
T
E
ON TEST S
T
HOLD
DME
SPILT
NAV 1 NAV 2
068 246
COURSE COURSE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
For lateral guidance in airways, the pilots can select a VOR course on the VOR
control panel. The deviation from the selected course is calculated in the
systems, which show course and deviation (EFIS) or use it for guidance
(AFCAS). Also calculated from the difference between received radial and
selected course is the information if the aircraft flies to or from a VOR station.
The navigation display shows selected course, deviation, and the to-from
information. Figure 58 shows HSI indications for a selected VOR course.
“FROM” FLAG
IN VIEW
SELECTED
COURSE
“TO” FLAG
IN VIEW
SELECTED VOR
RADIAL
POSITION WRT
VOR RADIAL
AIRCRAFT
E 12
6
3
15
S
N
33
21
24
30 W
0 0 0
MILES
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 59 shows the location of the VOR aerials on a Boeing 737 and a Fokker
100 aircraft.
VOR AERIAL
LOCATED ON TOP
OF VERTICAL
STABILISER
VOR AERIAL
LOCATED ON EITHER
SIDE OF VERTICAL
STABILISER
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
No 2 SYSTEM
No 1 SYSTEM
No 1 SYSTEM
No 2 SYSTEM
VOR/ILS Aerial
Figure 60
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
T
S
L
E
S
I
AUDIO
VOR
PRE
ACT
VOR/DME
TEST
1 1 1 . 25
1 1 1 . 40
ON
HOLD
NORM
DME
STBY
CONTROLLER
VOR
RECEIVER
VOR
D
F
A
E 12
6
VOR
3
15
S
N
33
21
VOR
0 24
W 3
COMPASS HEADING
D
F
A
SELECTOR
NAV
COURSE
246
NAV 2
E 12
6
3
15
SPILT
S
N
33
21
24
30
COURSE
W
068
NAV 1
000
MILES
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DME Operation
Figure 62
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The DME system operates in the UHF band and interrogates the ground stations
in the frequency range from 1025 MHz to 1150 MHz. Within this frequency range
the following ground stations are interrogated:
2. VOR/DME - Combination of VOR and DME station and gives VOR bearing
and distance replies.
3. ILS/DME - Combination of ILS and DME station and gives ILS guidance and
distance replies.
5. TACAN - Military station for bearing and distance information for military
aircraft. The civil aircraft use only the distance replies from these stations.
6. VOR/TAC - Combination of VOR and TACAN station and gives VOR bearing
and distance replies.
In addition to the distance reply, identification tones (1350Hz) are received from
the ground station and may be heard as Morse code by the aircrew through
headsets.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DME No 1
DME No 2
BROADBAND
L-BAND AERIAL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
RX TX
TIMING
INTERROGATION
REPLY
TX RX
DISTANCE
OUTPUT
DME Operation
Figure 64
In the DME system, the airborne unit transmits a 2-pulse group to the ground
station at a random rate of 150 pulse pairs a second. After a 50P second delay,
the ground station retransmits the pulse groups. Pulses are sent at one
frequency and received at a different frequency, using the same antenna.
Since many aircraft are using the DME facility, the aircraft equipment must be
capable of selecting only those pulses that are replies from their own
interrogations. A “Search and Track” circuit within the airborne equipment
achieves the selection.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The Search and Track circuit receives all DME replies and examines them to
determine which ones have a regular time relation with respect to the transmitted
signals. When the search circuit determines which received pulses are due to its
own interrogations, the tracking unit locks onto them. At the same time, the pulse
rate is greatly reduced; this in turn reduces the interrogation/replies at the ground
station.
CONTROL
VHF/NAV
PANEL
1 2 3.5
NAUTICAL MILES
INDICATOR
DME
INTERPHONE
SYSTEM
FLIGHT
FREQUENCY SYNTHESISER
RCVR/XMITTR
DELAYED
VARIABLE DELAY
CONTROLLED
TX
MATCHING
CIRCUITS
LOCK
ON
IDENTIFICATION
TRANSMITTER
DUPLEXER
RECIEVER
AUDIO
SUPPRESSOR
BUS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
NAV/VHF Controller
Figure 66
All DME frequencies are paired with either VOR or ILS system frequencies.
When these system frequencies are selected, the associated DME facility will be
automatically be selected. DME frequency range is 960 to 1215 MHz.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the ILS is to provide approach information to the pilot when, due
to weather, the runway is obscured from view. A typical system will allow the pilot
to bring the aircraft to within ½ mile of the runway and less than 200ft above the
runway without external visual reference. At these heights (Decision Height), the
pilot must have visual on the runway and surrounding environment in order to
continue the landing process. If the runway cannot be identified then a missed
approach procedure is carried out. Aircraft will then be flown around the circuit
for another attempt at landing.
Cat II - Operation down to a minimum below 200ft decision height and runway
visual range of 800m, and to as low as 100ft decision height and runway visual
range of 400m with a high probability of approach success.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
CAT 1
200
CAT 2 A B C
100
CAT 3
ILS Categories
Figure 67
The ILS gives horizontal and vertical guidance in the approach to a runway. The
system uses two radio signals:
The localizer signal comes from a transmitter located at the end of the runway
that operates in the frequency range from 108.000 - 111.95 MHz. The localizer
transmits two beams one on the right side of the runway centerline and one on
the left side of the runway centerline.
The beam on the right side has a 150 Hz modulation; the one on the left side has
a 90 Hz modulation. When the aircraft flies over the extended centerline to the
runway it receives both signals with an equal strength. When the aircraft deviates
from the centerline there is a difference in signal strength. The system measures
the deviation from the center line by comparing the strength of these 90 Hz and
150 Hz modulation signals.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The Glideslope signal comes from a transmitter at the beginning of the runway
that operates in the frequency range from 329.3 MHz to 335 MHz. The
Glideslope transmits two beams to give vertical guidance over the glidepath. The
glidepath has an angle of approximately 3°.
The Glideslope beams are just like the localizer, modulated with 90 Hz and 150
Hz. The 90 Hz modulated beam is above and the 150 Hz modulated beam is
below the 3° glidepath. The system measures the deviation from the difference in
signal strength between the 90 Hz and 150 Hz modulation signals.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DOTS ON HSI
DEVIATION
LATERAL
2 DOT ENVELOPE
(COURSE WIDTH)
AT THRESHOLD
700 ft WIDE
5º ON SHORT RUNWAY
4º ON LONG RUNWAY
LOC
TX
Localizer Principle
Figure 67
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
3,000 ft
COURSE WIDTH 1.4º
2 DOT ENVELOPE
1,000 ft
28 ft
3º
14 ft
1,000 ft
100 ft
50 ft
Glideslope Principle
Figure 68
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.44.2 Antennas
VOR/LOC AERIAL
LOCATED ON THE
VOR/LOC No 2
OTHER SIDE
GLIDESLOPE
GLIDESLOPE
No 1 & No 2
LOCATED ON THE
VOR/LOC No 2
OTHER SIDE
VOR/LOC AERIAL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 70 shows a diagram for the LOC signal detection and display.
RF AMP
WARNING
FLAG
IF AMP
SUM
DETECTOR 90Hz FILTER
250mV OUT
OF VIEW
150Hz FILTER
DIFFERENCE
DEVIATION
BAR
The receiver of the Glideslope and Localiser operate in the same manner and
include conventional “Radio Frequency (RF)”, “Intermediate Frequency (IF)” and
Audio Frequency (AF)” stages. The output of the AF detector stage is the 90Hz
and 150Hz signals. These are separated in there respective filters.
The two signals are 180q out of phase and so oppose each other. The two
signals are first summed together, and if the result is more than 250mV, the
LOC/GS flag will be out of view (ILS valid). If the result of the summing is less
than 250mV, the LOC/GS flags will remain in view (ILS invalid).
If the 90Hz and 150Hz signals have the same amplitude, they cancel each other
out in the difference circuit. This produces a 0V output to the deviation bar that is
basically a centre reading dc voltmeter. With the output 0V the deviation bar will
be central indicating the aircraft is positioned on the extended runway centerline
(LOC) or on the glideslope.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
If the aircraft is positioned in the 90Hz signal lobe, then the amplitude of the 90Hz
signal will be strongest. This will give a fly right signal (LOC) or fly down signal
(G/S). If the difference is -75mV, the deviation bar will be located on the first dot
right, if the difference is -150mV or more, then the deviation bar will be located on
the second dot right. If the 150Hz is the stronger signal, then the voltage
produced will be positive. This will give either fly left (LOC) or fly up (G/S).
Because the result of the difference circuit is either a +dc half-cycle or –dc half-
cycle, the signals are condensed using the capacitor, which will produce a steady
dc signal. These condenser capacitors also damp the deviation bar movement.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
In order to inform the pilot as to the aircraft's progress, during an ILS approach,
along the centerline and Glideslope, there is a marker system. The markers are
normally annotated as follows:
1. Outer marker.
2. Middle Marker.
3. Inner marker.
Note: With Category II & III, ILS the inner marker is virtually non existent.
3000 Hz
WHITE
400 Hz
INDICATOR
BLUE
1300 Hz INDICATOR
AMBER
INDICATOR
MORSE MORSE
MORSE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The inner marker is not normally used with ILS, but is now used as an “Airways”
marker, used for enroute navigation or as holding points above an airport.
Airways markers are identified when the white light comes on and a 3,000Hz tone
is heard.
Outer and Middle markers are associated with the ILS. The outer marker is
usually located directly below the point where an aircraft on a localizer course
should intersect the Glideslope and start descending. An outer marker is
identified when the blue light comes on and a 400 Hz tone is heard. The middle
marker is located near the runway, usually under a point on the glidepath where a
descent could be discontinued. The middle marker is identified when the amber
light comes on and a 1,300 Hz tone is heard. A 75MHz carrier modulates all
marker frequencies. Figure 72 shows the system layout.
MARKER BEACON
SYSTEM AUDIO AUDIO
75 MHz AMPLIFIER (MORSE)
FILTER
1300 Hz
MARKER FILTER AMP MIDDLE
HIGH
400 Hz
FILTER AMP OUTER
LOW
SENSITIVITY
SWITCH
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The ADF system detects the direction to a Non Directional Beacon (NDB) and
receives audio identification from the NDB. The ADF system shows the direction
to the NDB on the instruments with the bearing pointer. The ADF system
operates in the frequency range of 190 to 1750 KHz.
MAGNETIC
NORTH
ADF2
ADF 1
300° HEADING 60°
RF 30°
S
AD I G N
F 2 AL M
ST S F F RO
AT RO S N
IO M N AL TIO
A
N SIG ST
RF DF1
A
RELATIVE
BEARINGS
ADF Operation
Figure 73
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A 'loop aerial', is very sensitive to its directional position, meaning that when it is
pointing towards the transmitter, it receives a null signal but when pointing away
from the transmitter, it receives a strong signal. This ability is used to
automatically find the direction of the transmitter, relative to the aircraft heading
and is displayed on the Radio Magnetic Indicator, RMI.
LOOP AERIAL
AT 90° TO SIGNAL
NO INCREASING NO INCREASING NO
CURRENT CURRENT CURRENT CURRENT CURRENT
RADIO TRANSMITTER
Loop Antenna
Figure 74
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
By turning the loop aerial to either of its two null positions the directions of a line
joining the receiver with the transmitting station can be determined. This is called
the “Station Line” and is shown in Figure 75.
Station Line
Figure 75
As there are two nulls, 180q apart, the transmitter could be towards “A” or “B” in
figure 75, causing ambiguity. To resolve this ambiguity it is necessary to change
the directional properties of the aerial system. This is achieved by introducing a
second aerial which combines its horizontal polar diagram with that of the loop
aerial which produces a new heart shaped polar diagram called a “Cardioid”.
Figure 76 shows the resultant Cardioid polar diagram from the loop and sense
aerials.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
LOOP
POLAR
DIAGRAMS
SENSE CARDIOID
POLAR POLAR
DIAGRAM DIAGRAM
The signal from the ADF transmitter induces a voltage into the loop using the
magnetic component of the signal. The sense aerial has a voltage induced by
the electric component of the signal. This produces 90q phase shift between the
loop and sense aerial voltages. Whether the sense voltage leads or lags the loop
voltage depends on which side of the station line the signal is coming from.
Given a means of rotating the loop and switching the sense aerial into and out of
the receiver input and a means of reversing the polarity of the loop signal to
produce a Cardioid either to the right or left of a relative bearing pointer, aural
sensing can be carried out. The bearing pointer is positioned along the loop axis
in one direction as shown if figure 77.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
BEARING POINTER
ALONG LOOP AXIS IN
ONE DIRECTION
ADF AERIAL
On tuning to the ADF beacon and listening to the audio signal, the loop is turned
until a minimum signal is received. The loop is then offset in one direction by 15q
- 20q. The sense aerial is now switched in for the right Cardioid and the loudness
of the audio noted. The loop is then reversed to give a left Cardioid, again the
loudness is noted. The sense aerial is now switched out and the loop is tuned in
the direction of the Cardiods, which gave the loudest signal. The first null the
loop aerial reaches will be the correct one and the pointer will now be pointing the
ADF transmitter the system is tuned to. Figure 78 shows this operation.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
ADF
BEACON ADF
BEACON
RIGHT IS
LOUDEST
LEFT IS
NOT AS
LOUD
POINTING TO
WRONG NULL
TURN TOWARDS
LOUDEST FOR
CORRECT NULL LOOP OFFSET
BY 15° - 20°
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
In modern aircraft, the loop aerials are more streamlined and do not physically
rotate (rotated electronically).
NO 2 SENSE
ANTENNA & NO 2 LOOP
COUPLER ANTENNA
NO 1 SENSE NO 1 LOOP
ANTENNA & ANTENNA
COUPLER
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
SENSE
ANTENNA AUDIO
FWD
A
RS 47Hz 47Hz
OSC FILTER
B
ADF RECEIVER
AC SUPPLY
TR
RMI
ADF System
Figure 80
The fixed loop antenna is preferred because it is more trouble free, due to fewer
moving parts. The fixed loop consists of two loops orientated at 90q to each
other. Each loop is connected to an individual stator of a receiving resolver within
the ADF receiver.
If the received station is directly ahead of the aircraft, loop “A” will have maximum
signal and the “B” loop will have a null signal. In this case the resolver will see a
null signal due to the orientation of the resolver rotor. If the aircraft is positioned
to the right of the station, then the “A” will see a null and the “B” will see maximum
signal. Intermediate positions of the received station would result in intermediate
positions of the resultant filed in the stator of the resolver.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
ADF ANT
ADF ANT
OFF TEST
ADF 1
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.47.1 Transponders
The ground control has two types of radar with which to control air traffic:
1. Primary Radar.
2. Secondary Radar.
The primary radar provides the ground station operator with a symbol on his
surveillance radarscope for every aircraft in his area. It is a reflection type of
radar system not requiring any response from the aircraft.
The secondary radar system uses what is called an “ATC Transponder” in the
aircraft. The transponder is a transmitter/receiver, which transmits in response to
an interrogation from the ground station secondary surveillance radar system.
The primary and secondary radar antennas are mounted on the same rotating
mounting, and therefore both always look in the same direction at the same time.
The aircraft’s transponder reply can also include a special code, which identifies
that particular aircraft on the scope. If the pilot receives instructions from the
ground station to do so he presses his “Ident” button on his control panel. This
causes the display on the radarscope to change thus identifying the aircraft to the
controller. The transponder can also transmit the aircraft’s altitude, which can be
displayed to the ground controller.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
GROUND SURVEILLANCE
RADAR
ATC RADAR
ANTENNAS
ATC RADAR
TRANSMITTER/
RECEIVER
ATCRBS Operation
Figure 82
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The ATCRBS control panel allows the flight crew to select ATC 1 or 2, mode of
operation and ident code select. Figure 83 shows a typical ATCRBS control
panel.
STBY MODE
A B
1 2
2567
ALT RPTG
ALT
IDENT
1 2
OFF
SOURCE
The ground station transmits its interrogation pulse on 1030 MHz as a three-pulse
signal. The space between the first and third pulse signifies the mode reply
required. The system operates in four modes, these are:
1. Mode A - Identify.
2. Mode B - Obsolete.
4. Mode D – Unassigned.
2.47.3 Mode A
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.47.4 Mode C
Altitude reporting capability of the transponder. The aircraft's Air Data System
will supply altitude information for use in Mode C replies. This allows the ground
controller, to not only identify an aircraft but also to ascertain its altitude, so he
can guide it safely through his allocated airspace. The pulse spacing is 21Psec.
Figure 84 shows the interrogation pulses for mode A & C.
8O SEC
P1 P3
P2
21O SEC
P1 P3
P2
Once the aircraft’s transponder has received an interrogation, it will reply with
either Mode A or C (1090 MHz). One problem to overcome with this system is an
aircraft replying to interrogations when not being illuminated by the primary radar.
To overcome this, a suppression pulse is transmitted (P2). If the amplitude of this
pulse is equal/greater than P1, the aircraft will not reply to the interrogation.
Figure 85 shows the operation of the suppression signal.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DIRECTIONAL
REPLY
P2
ROTATION
P1
SIDELOBES
P3
NO REPLY
P2
ANTENNA (P2)
DIRECTIONAL
OMNI
P1
ATCRBS Suppression
Figure 85
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
R EP LY A N D FA U LT LIGH T C ON TR OL
A IR D A TA
A LT R PTG ON
C O M P U TE R
NO 1 N O 1 A TC
T RA N S P O N DE R
N0 1
A TC AE R IAL
N O 1 EN A B LE
A TC R BS M OD E, 40 9 6, ID EN T
D UA L SU P P
N O 2 EN A B LE
C O N TR O L
N0 2
A TC AE R IAL
N O 2 A TC
A IR D A TA T RA N S P O N DE R
A LT R PTG ON
C O M P U TE R
NO 2
R EP LY A N D FA U LT LIGH T C ON TR OL
A TC R BS V ID E O C O M P A RA T O R
T RA N S P O N DE R SU PP P1 - P2
D IP LE X E R R E CE IV E R
D E CO DE R
1 0 3 0 M Hz M O D E A or C
M OD E SW
SEL F T EST
S E L FT E S T
C IRC U ITS
4096 ID E NT
T RA N S M ITT E R M O D U LA TO R
E N CO DE R
1 0 9 0 M Hz 1 0 9 0 M Hz
E N CO DE D
H E IG H T
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
After 1989, a completely new type of ATC system was introduced. This system is
called mode S (mode select). The new interrogators and transponders are called
ATCRBS/mode S because they are capable of working with the old ATCRBS
equipment or with new mode S equipment.
For the present time, there will be ATCRBS only equipped aircraft sharing
airspace with ATCRBS/mode S equipped aircraft. On the ground, most of the
stations are ATCRBS-only, but there will be a gradual phasing in of
ATCRBS/mode S ground stations. Both types of station can interrogate either
type of transponder, and both types of transponder can respond to either type of
ground station. TCAS-equipped aircraft interrogate both ATCRBS and
ATCRBS/mode S equipped aircraft just as an ATCRBS/mode S ground station
would do.
At some point in the future, all ATCRBS-only equipment will be phased out for
commercial aviation. All ground stations and aircraft will then operate in mode S
only.
The address and the Location of the Mode S aircraft is entered into a roll-call file
by the Mode S ground station. On the next scan, the Mode S aircraft is discretely
addressed. The discrete interrogations of a Mode S aircraft contain a command
field that may desensitise the Mode S transponder to further Mode S all-call
interrogations. This is called Mode S lockout. ATCRBS interrogations (from
ATCRBS only interrogators) are not affected by this lockout. Mode S
transponders reply to the interrogations of an ATCRBS interrogator under all
circumstances.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
TRANSPONDER
PRIMARY
RADAR
REPLY INTERROGATION
1090MHz 1030MHz
ECHO
PRIMARY
SECONDARY SURVEILLANCE
SURVEILLANCE RADAR (PSR)
RADAR (SSR)
ATC
RADAR
SCOPE
ROLL CALL
NEIGHBORING
GROUND LINK AIRSPACE
AIRPLANE 1
CONTROLLER
AIRPALNE 2
(MODE S)
AIRPLANE 3
Mode S Operation
Figure 87
2.48.3 Operation
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
In areas where Mode S interrogators are not connected by way of ground lines,
the protocol for the transponder is for it to be in the lockout state for only those
interrogators that have the aircraft on the roll-call. If the aircraft enters airspace
served by a different Mode S interrogator, the new interrogator may acquire the
aircraft via the replay to an all-call interrogation. Also, if the aircraft does not
receive an interrogation for 16 seconds, the transponder automatically cancels
the lockout. Figure 88 shows the different types of interrogation pulses for
ATCRBS and Mode S systems
(UNLESS LOCKED
(UNLESS LOCKED
REPLY MODE S
REPLY MODE S
TRANSPONDERS
ATCRBS/MODE S
ONLY MODE S
DISCREETLY
ADDRESSED
NO REPLY
REPLIES
ATCRBS
REPLY
OUT)
OUT)
TRANSPONDERS
ATCRBS
NO REPLY
NO REPLY
REPLY
REPLY
REPLY
P4
P4
P6
P6
P3
P3
P3
P5
P5
INTERROGATION PULSE
P2
P2
P2
P2
P2
P1
P1
P1
P1
P1
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
TCAS is an airborne traffic alert and collision avoidance advisory system, which
operates without support from ATC, ground stations. TCAS detects the presence
of nearby intruder aircraft equipped with transponders that reply to Air Traffic
Control Radar Beacon Systems (ATCRBS) Mode C or Mode S interrogations.
TCAS tracks and continuously evaluates the threat potential of intruder aircraft to
its own aircraft and provides a display of the nearby transponder-equipped
aircraft on a traffic display. During threat situations TCAS provides traffic
advisory alerts and vertical maneuvering resolution advisories to assist the flight
crew in avoiding mid-air collisions.
TCAS I provides proximity warning only to assist the pilot in the visual acquisition
of intruder aircraft. It is intended for use by smaller commuter and general
aviation aircraft.
TCAS III Still under development, will provide traffic advisories and resolution
advisories in the horizontal as well as the vertical direction to avoid conflicting
traffic.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
OWN AIRCRAFT
TCAS I TCAS II TCAS III
Mode A
XPDR Only TA TA TA
Mode C TA
Or Mode S TA TA VRA
XPDR VRA HRA
TARGET AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT
TA TA
TCAS I TA VRA VRA
HRA
TA TA
TCAS II TA VRA VRA
TTC HRA
TTC
TA TA
TCAS III TA VRA VRA
TTC HRA
TTC
TA – TRAFFIC ADVISORY
VRA - VERTICAL RESOLUTION ADVISORY
HRA - HORIZONTAL RESOLUTION ADVISORY
TTC - TCAS – TCAS COORDINATION
Table 1
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
TCAS II provides a traffic display and two types of advisories to the pilot. One
type of advisory, called a traffic advisory (TA) informs the pilot that there are
aircraft in the area, which are potential threats to his own aircraft. The other type
of advisory is called a resolution advisory (RA), which advises the pilot that a
vertical corrective or preventative action is required to avoid a threat aircraft.
TCAS II also provides aural alerts to the pilot. Figure 89 shows TCAS protection
area.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 89
When a Mode S or Mode C intruder is acquired, TCAS begins tracking the
intruder. Tracking is performed by repetitious TCAS interrogations in Mode S and
Mode C. When interrogated transponders reply after a fixed delay. Measurement
of the time between interrogation transmission and reply reception allows TCAS
to calculate the range of the intruder. If the intruder's transponder is providing
altitude in its reply, TCAS is able to determine the relative altitude of the intruder.
DIRECTIONAL
DIRECTIONAL
ANTENNA
ANTENNA
OMNI
OMNI
TRANSPONDER
MODE S/TCAS
CONTROLLER
MODE S
UNIT
AURAL
ALERT
DATA BUS
BAROMETRIC
ALTIMETER
TA/RA
ALTIMETER
RADAR
COMPUTER
TCAS
UNIT
TA/RA
DIRECTIONAL
DIRECTIONAL
ANTENNA
ANTENNA
OMNI
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The position on the display shows the range and relative bearing of the intruder.
The range of TCAS is about 30 NM in the forward direction. Figure 91 shows
TCAS TA and RA calculations.
SURVEILLANCE
TRAFFIC
ADVISORY
(TA)
RANGE ALTITUDE
TEST TEST
THREAT
DETECTION
(RA)
RA
SENSE CLIMB RATE OF STRENGTH
TCAS/TCAS
SELECTION DECENT CLIMB/DECENT SELECTION
CO-ORDINATION
RA
ADVISORY
TA ANNUNCIATION
(TA/RA)
AIR GROUND
COMMUNICATION ATC
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AIRCRAFT 2
TCAS AIRCRAFT 2 TRANSMITS
ATCRBS ALL CALL
AIRCRAFT 2 RECIEVES SQUITTER
(1030 MHz) AIRCRAFT 3
AND ADDS AIRCRAFT 1 TO
RESPONDS MODE C
ITS ROLL CALL, THEN INTERROGATES
(1090 MHz)
AIRCRAFT 1 (TCAS 1030 MHz)
AIRCRAFT 3
ATCRBS ONLY
AIRCRAFT 1
MODE S ONLY
AIRCRAFT 1 TRANSMITS
OMNIDIRECTIONAL
SQUITTER SIGNALS
(MODE S 1090 MHz)
GROUND STATION
TRANSMITS
INTERROGATIONS
AT (1030MHz)
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Honeywell
2
1 4
.5
+03 6
-05
0
-03
6
.5
1 4
2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
180
5000 6
2
160 10 10
1
14 4800
1
REF
120 10 10 4600 2
6
MDA
CRS 123
4700
100
FLY OUT
OF AREA STD
29.86IN
117 MAG 750
RA FLIGHT
BOUNDARY
(RED)
6
2
GREEN
1
SEGMENT
1
RED
SEGMENT 2
6
VERTICAL SPEED
LINE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The single announcement "Clear of Conflict" indicates that the encounter has
ended (range has started to increase), and the pilot should promptly but smoothly
return to the previous clearance.
Table 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
It is important for the pilot to know that TCAS is operating properly. For this
reason a self-test system is incorporated. Self-test can be initiated at any time,
on the ground or in flight, by momentarily pressing the control unit TEST button.
If TA's or RAs occur while the self-test is activated in flight, the test will abort and
the advisories will be processed and displayed.
After eight seconds "TCAS TEST PASS" or "TCAS TEST FAIL" is aurally
announced to indicate the system status.
OFF ON STBY
AS
IDENT
7777 TA
/RA
ATC
C
A
S ALT RPTG
TCAS XPDR
OFF TEST 1 2
1 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
This shows the ATC code selected by the two dual concentric knobs below
the display. The system select switch (XPDR 1-2) controls input to the
display.
Certain fault indications are also indicated on the display. "PASS" will
show after a successful functional test and "FAIL" will show if a high level
failure is detected under normal operating conditions.
This selects the altitude range for the TCAS traffic displays. In the ABV
mode the range limits are 7,000 feet above and 2,700 feet below the
aircraft. In the BLW mode the limits are 2,700 feet above and 7,000 feet
below. When normal (N) is selected the displayed range is 2,700 feet
above and below the aircraft.
When AUTO is selected the TCAS computer sets the displays to "pop-up"
mode under a traffic/resolution advisory condition. In MAN the TCAS
displays are constantly activated advising of any near by traffic.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
RT-950
Honeywell TCAS
COMPUTER UNIT
TPR
RESERVED
BITE
TEST
TCAS COMPUTER
MODE S COMPUTER
If the test button is momentarily pressed fault data for the current and previous
flight legs can be displayed on the front panel annunciators.
When the TEST is initially activated all annunciators are on for 3 seconds and
then current fault data is displayed for 10 seconds, after which the test terminates
and all annunciators are extinguished.
If the test button is pressed again during the 10-second fault display period the
display is aborted and a 2-second lamp test is carried out. The fault data
recorded for the previous flight leg is then displayed for 10 seconds.
This procedure can be repeated to obtain recorded data from the previous 10
flight legs.
If the test button is pressed to display fault data after the last recorded data all
annunciators will flash for 3 seconds and then extinguish.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Software updates can be incorporated into the computer via a set of ARINC 429
busses and discrete inputs. These allow an interface to either an Airborne Data
Loader (ADL) through pins on the unit's rear connector or to a Portable Data
Loader (PDL) through the front panel "DATA LOADER" connector.
The computer works with either ARINC 603 data loader low speed bus or ARINC
615 high-speed bus.
A personal computer (PC) can be connected to the front panel "DATA LOADER"
connector. This allows the maintenance log and RA event log to be downloaded
to the PC via an RS 232 interface.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The modern inertial navigation system is the only self-contained single source for
all navigation data. After being supplied with initial position information, it is
capable of continuously updating extremely accurate displays of the aircraft’s:
1. Position.
2. Ground Speed.
3. Attitude.
4. Heading.
It can also provide guidance and steering information for the auto pilot and flight
instruments. Figure 97 shows a representation of Inertial Navigation principal.
Navigation Triangle
CK
RA ED
PE S H
T
’S E VELOCITY NORTH/SOUTH (VN)
RS T’
FT DSP
AI F
A
& CRA
R N
RC O U
AI G R
R
&
AI
TRK DRIFT
HDG
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
“The acceleration of a body is directly proportional to the sum of the forces acting
on the body.”
With these laws we can mechanise a device which is able to detect minute
changes in acceleration and velocity, ability necessary in the development of
inertial systems. Velocity and distance are computed from sensed acceleration
by the application of basic calculus. The relationship between acceleration,
velocity and displacement are shown in figure 98.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
VELOCITY FEET
PER SECOND
PER SECOND
DISTANCE IN
FEET
TIME
Note; Velocity changes whenever acceleration exists and remains constant when
acceleration is zero.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The acceleration signal from the amplifier is also sent to an integrator, which is a
time multiplication device. It starts with acceleration, which is in feet per second
squared (feet per sec per sec) and end up after multiplication by time with velocity
(feet per second).
The velocity signal is then fed through another integrator, which again is a time
multiplier, which gives a result in distance in feet. So from an accelerometer we
can derive:
1. Ground Speed.
2. Distance Flown.
If the computer associated with the INS knows the latitude and longitude of the
starting point and calculates the aircraft has travelled a certain distance
north/south and east/west it can calculate the aircraft’s present position.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
DISTANCE
DESTINATION
POSITION
PRESENT
GROUNDSPEED
VELOCITY
2ND
DISTANCE FLOWN
INTERGRATORS
1ST
PRESENT POSITION
COMPUTER
RECENTRING (FEEDBACK)
MASS
ACCELEROMETER
POSITION
START
POSITION
START
INS Operation
Figure 99
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AZIMUTH
AXIS
ROLL
AXIS
PITCH
AXIS
Inertial Platform
Figure 100
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
We can also measure the angular distance between the aircraft and the platform
in the three axes, giving us the aircraft’s pitch, roll and heading angles. These
can be used in the navigation computations and also give heading and attitude
information to the relative systems.
The gyro and accelerometer are mounted on a common gimbal. When this
gimbal tips off the level position, the spin axis of the gyro remains fixed. The
case of the gyro moves with the gimbal, and the movement is detected by a
signal pick-off within the gyro. This signal is amplified and sent to the gimbal
motor, which restores the gimbal back to the level position. Figure 101 shows the
operation of gyro stabilization.
INPUT AXIS
RATE
GYROSCOPE
OUTPUT
AXIS
PLATFORM
GEARS AMPLIFIER
MOTOR
TACHO
GEN
Gyro Stabilization
Figure 101
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The INS gyro operates on the principle of gyroscopic inertia, which is the
characteristic of a rotating mass to resist any forces, which tend to change the
direction of its spin axis. Because the earth rotates in space, the space-
orientated gyro appears to rotate with respect to an earth bound observer. This
makes the gyro unsuitable for use as an earth-fixed reference unless the gyro is
deliberately torqued to rotate at a rate proportional to the earth’s rotational rate
(earth rate = 15º/hour). When torqued in this manner, the spin axis appears
stationary, and the gyro is effectively slaved to the earth’s co-ordinate system.
Figure 102 shows the calculations of earth rate for the north and vertical gyros.
E A RT H RA TE = (1 5 °/H R ) X C O S LA TIT UD E
E A R TH R AT E
9 0°
C O M P E N S A T IO N = 15 D EG /H R
A T 0 ° L A T IT U D E
N O R TH G Y R O
E A R TH R AT E
C O M P E N S A T IO N = 0 D E G /HR 4 5°
A T 9 0 ° L A T IT U D E
E A R TH R AT E
\
C O M P E N S A T IO N = 1 0 . 6 º /H R 0°
A T 4 5 ° L A T IT U D E
E A RT H RA TE = (1 5 °/H R ) X S IN L AT ITU D E
E A R TH R AT E 9 0°
C O M P E N S A T IO N = 0 D E G /HR
A T 0 ° L A T IT U D E
V E RT ICA L G Y R O
E A R TH R AT E
C O M P E N S A T IO N = 15 D EG /H R 4 5°
A T 9 0 ° L A T IT U D E
E A R TH R AT E \
C O M P E N S A T IO N = 1 0 . 6 º /H R 0°
A T 4 5 ° L A T IT U D E
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
These corrections are used to keep the platform horizontal and pointing to north.
The aim is to cancel out the apparent movement of the gyro as the aircraft moves
over the earth’s surface. These corrections are applied to all three gyros as
torque to the gyro torque motor, the amount of torque being dependant on the
direction of the aircraft movement over the earth’s surface.
This will cause the platform to move away from its horizontal attitude. This effect
is corrected by applying a signal to the East gyro’s torque motor. The strength of
the signal is dependant on the angular rate of change which is found out by the
following formula:
Z= AIRCRAFT’S VELOCITY
EARTH’S RADIUS
Figure 103 shows the vehicle rate corrections for an aircraft travelling North.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
This again causes the platform to move away from its horizontal attitude. This is
corrected by applying a signal to th torque motor of the North gyro. Figure 104
shows the vehicle rate corrections for an aircraft travelling East with the North
axis rotated.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
When moving east at any latitude other than the equator, the movement also
causes the platform to move away from pointing north. To correct this, we apply
a signal to the torque motor on the vertical gyro. The size of the signal is
dependant on the latitude and the sped of the aircraft. Figure 105 shows the
vehicle rate corrections for an aircraft travelling East with the vertical axis rotated.
Figure 106
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
P T
E
/ / (VEHICLE RATE CORRECTION) ZE = (RATE OF CHANGE LAT)
GYRO
O M
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.50.5 Alignment
The computer requires the following information prior to alignment so that it can
calculate the position of “True North”:
The alignment procedure can only be carried out on the ground, during which the
aircraft must not be moved. Once started the alignment procedure is automatic
In the navigation mode the pitch, roll attitude and the magnetic heading
information is updated mainly with the attitude changes sensed by gyros.
Because the IRS is aligned to true north a variation angle is used to calculate the
direction to magnetic north. Each location on earth has its own variation angle.
All variation angles between the 73 North and 60 South latitude are stored in the
IRS.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Given the knowledge of pitch, roll and heading that the gyros provide, the
microprocessor resolves the acceleration signals into earth-related accelerations,
and then performs the horizontal and vertical navigation calculations. Under
normal conditions, all six sensors sense motion simultaneously and continuously,
thereby entailing calculations that are substantially more complex than a normal
INS. Therefore a powerful, high-speed microprocessor is required in the IRS in
order to rapidly and accurately handle the additional complexity.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 107 shows the block schematic of the Strap-Down inertial Navigation
system.
COMPUTER
ALTIMETER
POSITION
VECTOR
SOLVER
ACCELEROMETERS
COORDINATE
CONVERTER
LONGITUDE
LATITUDE
B MATRIX
GYROS
PITCH
ROLL
YAW
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Laser Ring Gyros (LRG) are not in fact gyros, but sensors of angular rate of
rotation about a single axis. They are made of a triangular block of temperature
stable glass. Very small tunnels are precisely drilled parallel to the perimeter of
the triangle, and reflecting mirrors are placed in each corner. A small charge of
Helium-neon gas is inserted and sealed into an aperture in the glass at the base
of the triangle.
When a high voltage is run between the anodes and the cathode, the gas is
ionized, and two beams of light are generated, each travelling around the cavity
in opposite directions.
Since both contrarotating beams travel at the same speed (speed of light), it
takes the exact same time to complete a circuit. However, if the gyro were
rotated on its axis, the path length of one beam would be shortened, while the
other would be lengthened. A laser beam adjusts its wavelength for the length of
the path it travels, so the beam that travelled the shortest distance would rise in
frequency, while the beam that travelled the longer distance would have a
frequency decrease.
The frequency difference between the two beams is directly proportional to the
angular rate of turn about the gyro’s axis. Thus the frequency difference
becomes a measure of rotation rate. If the gyro doesn’t move about its axis, both
frequencies remain the same and the angular rate is zero.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
FRINGE
PATTERN
CORNER
PRISM
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The mode select unit controls the mode of operation of the IRS. There are two
types in common use:
2. Triple-Channel MSU.
The six-annunciator MSU provides mode selection, status indication and test
initiation for one Inertial Reference Unit (IRU). Figure 109 shows six-annunciator
MSU and Figure 110 shows a triple-channel MSU.
LASEREF NAV
ATT
ALIGN ALIGN FAULT
NAV RDY NO AIR
OFF
ON BATT BATT FAIL
TEST
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
IRS Modes or set by setting the MSU mode select switch as follows:
OFF-TO-ALIGN
The IRU enters the power-on/built-in test equipment (BITE) submode. When
BITE is complete after approximately 13 seconds, the IRU enters the alignment
mode. The IRU remains in the alignment mode until the mode select switch is set
to OFF, NAV or ATT. The NAV RDY annunciator illuminates upon completion of
the alignment.
OFF-TO-NAV
The IRU enters the power-on/built-in test equipment (BITE) submode. When
BITE is complete after approximately 13 seconds, the IRU enters the alignment
mode. Upon completion of the alignment mode the system enters the navigation
mode.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
ALIGN-TO-NAV
The IRU enters navigate mode from alignment mode upon completion of
alignment.
NAV-TO-ALIGN
The IRU enters the align downmode from the navigate mode.
NAV-TO-ALIGN-TO-NAV
The IRU enters the align downmode and after 30 seconds, automatically re-
enters the navigate mode.
ALIGN-TO-ATT or NAV-TO-ATT
The IRU enters the erect attitude submode for 20 seconds, during which the MSU
ALIGN annunciator illuminates. The IRU then enters the attitude mode.
ALIGN – Indicates that the IRU is in the alignment mode. A flashing ALIGN
annunciator indicates in-correct LAT/LONG entry, excessive aircraft movement
during align.
NAV RDY
FAULT
ON BATT
BATT FAIL
Indicates that the back-up battery power is inadequate to sustain IRS operation
during back-up battery operation (less than 21 volts).
NO AIR
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The ISDU selects data from any one of three IRUs for display and provides initial
position or heading data to the IRUs. Figure 111 shows an ISDU.
Honeywell LASEREF
DSPL SEL
P/POS N
TK/GS WIND 1 3
2
HDG/STS
TEST
BRT W H E
4
1 5
N
36
2
S
SYS DSPL 7
W H E9
8
2 4 5 6
1 3
ENT CLR
S0
7 8
9
OFF
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.50.13 Keyboard
The keyboard is used to enter latitude and longitude in the alignment mode or
magnetic heading in the attitude mode. The ISDU then sends the entered data
simultaneously to all IRUs when ENT pressed.
The keyboard contains 12 keys, five of the 12 keys are dual function: N/2, W/4,
H/5,E/6 AND S/8. A dual function key is used to select either the type of data
(latitude, longitude or heading) or numerical data to be entered. Single function
keys are used to select only numerical data.
The CLR (clear) and ENT (enter) keys contain green cue lights which, when lit
indicate that the operator action is required. CLR is used to remove data
erroneously entered onto the display; ENT is used to send data to the IRU.
2.50.14 Display
The 13-digit alphanumeric spilt display shows two types of navigation data at the
same time. The display is separated into one group of 6 digits (position 1 through
6) and one group of 7 digits (positions 7 through 13). Punctuation marks (located
in positions 3,5,6,10,12,and 13) light when necessary to indicate degrees,
decimal points, and minutes.
The SYS DSPL switch is used to select the IRU (position 1,2 or 3) from which the
displayed data originates. If the switch is set to OFF, the ISDU cannot send or
receive data from any of the 3 IRUs.
The DSPL SEL switch has five positions to select data displayed on the ISDU.
TEST – Selects a display test that illuminates all display elements and keyboard
cue lights to allow inspection for possible malfunctions. The DSPL SEL switch is
spring loaded and must be help in this position.
TK/GS – Selects track angle in degrees on the left display and ground speed in
knots on the right.
PPOS – Selects the aircraft’s present position as latitude on the left display and
longitude on the right. Both latitude and longitude are displayed in degrees,
minutes, and tenths of a minute.
WIND – Selects wind direction in degrees on the left display and wind speed in
knots on the right display.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
HDG/STS – Selects heading or alignment status for display, depending upon the
current IRU mode. Heading is displayed in degrees and tenths of degrees, and
time-to-alignment completion is displayed in minutes and tenths of minutes. In
the alignment mode, the ISDU displays alignment status (time to NAV ready) in
the right display. In the NAV mode, the ISDU displays true heading in the left
display. In the attitude mode, the ISDU displays magnetic heading in the left
display and ATT in the right display.
The dimmer knob is mounted on, on operates independently of, the DSPL SEL
switch. As the dimmer knob is rotated clockwise, the display brightens.
The IRU is the main electronic assembly of the IRS. The IRU contains an inertial
sensor assembly, microprocessors, and power supplies and aircraft electronic
interface. Accelerometers and LRG in the inertial sensor assembly measure
acceleration and angular rates of the aircraft.
1.Primary Attitude.
2.Present Position.
The power supplies receive a.c. and d.c. power from the aircraft and back-up
battery. It supplies power to the IRS, and provides switching to primary a.c. and
d.c. or backup battery power
The aircraft electronic interface converts ARINC inputs for use by the IRS. The
electronic interface also provides IRS outputs in ARINC formats for use by
associated aircraft equipment.
A fault ball indicator and a manual “Interface Test” switch are mounted on the
front of the IRU and are visible when the IRU is mounted in an avionics rack.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
INTERFACE
TEST
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
During alignment the inertial reference system determines the local vertical and
the direction of true north.
Inside the inertial reference unit, the three gyros sense angular rate of the aircraft.
Since the aircraft is stationary during alignment, the angular rate is due to earth
rotation. The IRU computer uses this angular rate to determine the direction of
true north.
During the alignment period, the IRU computer has determined true north by
sensing the direction of the earth’s rotation. The magnitude of the earth’ rotation
vector allows the IRU computer to estimate latitude of the initial present position.
This calculated latitude is compared with the latitude entered by the operator
during initialization.
For the IRU to enter ALIGN mode, the mode select switch is set to either the
ALIGN or NAV position. The systems software performs a vertical levelling and
determines aircraft true heading and latitude.
The levelling operations bring the pitch and roll attitudes to within 1q accuracy
(course levelling), followed by fine levelling and heading determination. Initial
latitude and longitude data must be entered manually either via the IRS CDU or
the Flight Management System CDU.
Upon ALIGN completion, the IRS will enter NAV mode automatically if the mode
select switch was set to NAV during align. If the mode select switch was set to
ALIGN, the system will remain in align until NAV mode is selected. The
alignment time is approximately 10 minutes.
Page 2-148
Inertial Reference Unit
DSPL SEL
P/POS N
TK/GS WIND 1 3
2
HDG/STS
A TEST
BRT W H E
4 N
5 6
INTERFACE
1 2 3
I TEST
S
SYS DSPL 7
W H E9
8
2 4 5 6
R 1 3
ENT CLR
S
0
OFF
7 8 9
C IRU 2
R
A INERTIAL SYSTEM
F Inertial Reference Unit
DISPLAY UNIT
T
S
INTERFACE
PART 2
TEST
Figure 113
Y
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 114 shows a block schematic of the interface of the IRS with the aircraft’s
avionics systems.
COMPUTERS
CONTROL
DAMPER
FLIGHT
YAW
MANAGEMENT
COMPUTER
THRUST
PROXIMITY
WARNING
GROUND
MANAGEMENT
REFERENCE
COMPUTER
INERTIAL
FLIGHT
PANEL
MODE
UNIT
IR
WEATHER
RADAR
COMPUTER
AUTOBRAKE
ACQN UNIT
AIR DATA
ANTI-SKID
FLIGHT
SYSTEM
DATA
EHSI/EADI
RDMI
VSI
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The radio magnetic indicator is a very useful navigation tool due to its ability to
display several different pieces of information simultaneously. Primarily, the
circular rotating 'card' is a self- correcting compass which is much more accurate
that the older, floating magnet type of compass. Secondly, the displays from the
ADF or VOR units can be displayed on top of the card, using two pointers, one
single and one double. This allows the pilot to see, in one instrument, his
heading and the orientation of up to two ground stations, relative to the aircraft,
using two different navigation systems. Figure 115 shows an RMI display and
aircraft position with respect to an ADF and VOR station.
AIRCRAFT HEADING
MAGNETIC NORTH
BEARING TO
VOR 2
BEACON
BEARING TO
ADF 1
BEACON
N
33 3
30
6
W
A A
24
12
D D
F 21 15 F
S
VOR VOR
RMI Display
Figure 115
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
VOR NO 2
NM
BEARING TO
.5
75
VOR NO 2 = 30º
=
CE
AN
IST
ED
DM
65.5 NM
TANCE =
DME DIS
BEARING TO VOR NO 1
VOR NO 1 = 87º
DDRMI Operation
Figure 116
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 111 shows a DDRMI indications resulting from the situation in figure 117.
65.5 75.5
DME - 1 DME - 2
N 3
33
30
6
W
V V
24
12
O O
R 15 R
21 S
ADF ADF
DDRMI Indication
Figure 117
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 118 shows a block schematic of the DDRMI system and the source of all
displayed data.
DDRMI
F/O’S
SYSTEM
COMPASS
SYSTEM
DME
NO 2
NO 1
SYSTEM
SYSTEM
VOR
NO 2
NO 2
ADF
SYSTEM
SYSTEM
VOR
NO 1
NO 1
ADF
COMPASS
SYSTEM
SYSTEM
NO2
DME
NO 1
CAPT’S
DDRMI
DDRMI Schematic
Figure 118
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
GPS is a space based radio navigation system, which provides worldwide, highly
accurate three-dimensional position, velocity and time information. The overall
system is divided into three parts.
1.Space Segment.
2.Control Segment.
3.User Segment.
Consists of 24 satellites (21 active + 3 spare), in six orbital planes with 4 satellites
in each orbit. They are orbiting the earth every 12 hours at an approximate
altitude of between 11,000nm – 12,500nm. The orbits are such that a minimum
of 6 satellites are in view from any point on the earth. This provides redundancy,
as only 4 satellites are required for three-dimensional position. Figure 119 shows
the Space Segment.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
This is a ground station that controls all satellites and is made up of:
2. Monitor Stations.
The Master Control Station is located at Colorado, USA, and is responsible for
processing satellite-tracking information received from the five Monitor Stations.
The Control Segments monitor the total system performance, corrects satellite
position and re-calibrates the on-board atomic time standards as necessary. The
Monitor Stations are located to provide continuous "ground" visibility of every
satellite. Three of the five monitor stations have ground antennas, which are
used to upload data to the satellites. Figure 120 shows the location of the Control
Segment.
COLORADO
SPRINGS
HAWAII
KWAJALIEN
ASCENSION
DIEGO
GARCIA
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.52.3 Operation
GPS operates by measuring the time it takes a signal to travel from a satellite to a
receiver on-board the aircraft. This time is multiplied by the speed of light to
obtain the distance measurement. This distance results in a Line Of Position
(LOP). Figure 121 shows GPS LOP.
LINE OF
POSITION
(LOP)
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
R EC EIV ER C OD E N OT
SY NC H R ON ISE D
W IT H T HE SA T ELL IT E CO DE
W ILL GIV E T W O/T H R EE
PO SSI BLE POS IT ION S
R EC EIV ER AD D S/ SU BT R AC T S
T IM E F R OM I TS C OD E T O
ES T ABL ISH T H E LOP S
IN T ER SE CT I NG T H E SA ME PO IN T
Code Synchronisation
Figure 122
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The P code is for military use only. Both codes transmit signals in a "Pseudo
Random Code" at a certain rate.
Once the GPS receiver has synchronized with the satellite code, it can then
measure the elapsed time since transmission by comparing the phase shift
between the two codes. The larger the phase shift, the longer the length of time
since transmission. The length of time since transmission times the speed of light
equals distance.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
SIGNAL RECEIVED
FROM SATELLITE
SIGNAL TRANSMITTED
FROM SATELLITE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
If we know our distance from a specific point in space (satellite), then it follows
that we are located somewhere on the surface of a sphere, with its radius of that
distance. The addition of a second satellite and a second distance measurement
further refines the position calculation as the two LOPs intersect each other. The
addition of a third distance measurement from a third satellite further refines the
position calculation as we now have three LOPs intersecting at a specific point in
space. This point in space represents the distance measured between the
aircraft and the three satellites. Figure 124 shows the process of position fixing.
AIRCRAFT’S
VERTICAL
POSITION
AIRCRAFT’S
HORIZONTAL
POSITION
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The ionosphere refracts UHF satellite transmission in the same way it refracts
VLF, L.MF and HF transmissions, only to a lesser degree. Since a refracted
signal has a greater distance to travel than a straight signal, it will arrive later in
time, causing an error in the distance measurement. The ionosphere refracts
signals in an amount inversely proportional to the square of their frequencies.
This means that the higher the frequency, the less the refraction and hence the
less error induced in the distance measurement.
Since the GPS satellites transmit two different UHF frequencies (1575.42 MHz
and 1227.60 MHz), each frequency will be affected by the ionosphere differently.
By comparing the phase shift between the two frequencies, the amount of
ionosphere distortion can be measured directly. By knowing the amount of
distortion that is induced, the exact correction factor can be entered into the
computer and effectively cancel ionosphere propagation error. Figure 125 shows
the principle of Ionospheric Propagation Errors.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A typical GPS provides Great Circle navigation from its present Position direct to
any waypoint or via a prescribed flight plan. When necessary, a new route can
be quickly programmed in flight.
Up to 999 waypoints and up to 56 flight plans are retained by the GNS-X when
power is turned off or interrupted. Selection of waypoints or of the leg to be flown
is not necessary to determine aircraft position; however, when these are
provided, the GNS-X computes and displays on the Colour Control Display Unit
all pertinent navigation data including:
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
GP S
A N TE N NA
E FIS
N AV I G A TIO N
A DC PR OC ESSOR A UT O P IL O T
U NI T
C OM PA SS
A UT O P IL O T
M O D E S E L E CT
M U LT IF U N C T I O N
C O N TR O L
D IS P L A Y U N IT
D EP
R TE LE GS ARR H OLD PR OG VN A V A TC
T IT L E F IEL D
L EF T R IGH T
F IE LD F IE LD
SC R A T CH PA D
BRT
D IM
C LR / PR E V N EX T M EN U D A TA EX EC
1 2 3 A B C D E F G
4 5 6 H I J K L M N
7 8 9 O P Q R S T U
+
0 / V W X Y Z SP
GNS-X System
Figure 126
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The Boeing 777 has two independent GPS, which are used to calculate the
following:
1. Aircraft’s Latitude.
2. Aircraft’s Longitude.
3. Aircraft’s Altitude.
4. Aircraft’s Groundspeed.
5. Accurate Time.
LEFT GPS
ANTENNA
GPWC RIGHT GPS
ANTENNA
CHR DATE
AIR DATA 60
DAY. MON . YR
INERTIAL 50 23 : 59 10
REFERENCE GMT
DIGITAL
UNIT ET/CHR
CLOCK X2 45
ADIRU X 3 99 : 59 20
RUN 30 RUN
HLD HLD
ET
SS MT
G
M
RESET FS D
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The two sensor units receive GPS satellite signals from their respective antennas
and calculate the aircraft’s position and accurate time. This data is sent to the
Aircraft Information Management System (AIMS) cabinets and the Ground
Proximity Warning Computer (GPWC). The Flight Management Computing
system uses the AIMS GPS data to calculate the aircraft’s position for use in its
navigation calculations.
The AIMS cabinets also send GPS data to the Air Data Inertial Reference Units
(ADIRU) which is used to calibrate the inertial sensors, thus decreasing any
inertial reference drift.
GPS time goes to the Universal Time Co-ordinated function (UTCF) within the
AIMS, the AIMS also outputs time data to the flight deck clocks.
1. Acquisition Mode.
2. Navigation Mode.
4. Aided Mode.
The GPS sensor units look for and lock onto the satellite signals. The sensors
must find at least 4 satellites before it can start to calculate GPS data. Whilst the
sensor is in the acquisition mode, itreceives the following data from the Flight
Management system:
2. Aircraft’s Velocity.
The GPS sensor unit uses this data to calculate which satellites are available at
the current aircraft’s position, allowing the sensor unit to receive the signals from
those satellites available and which ones may be used for navigation calculations.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Once the GPS sensor has acquired and locked onto at least 4 satellites it will
enter the navigation mode. In this mode the sensor unit it will compute the GPAS
data. If during the Navigation mode the GPS accuracy is not within 16NM of the
actual aircraft’s position, the sensor output will go into “None Computed Data”
(NCD).
With 4 satellites available, the GPS sensor stores the difference between the Air
Data Inertial Reference Unit (ADIRU) altitude and the GPS altitude. When the
GPS sensor is only receiving signals from 3 satellites, it will use this stored data
so that it can estimate the GPS altitude. During this phase the GPS sensor will
use the aircraft’s altitude from the ADIRU and the length of the earth’s radius as
the fourth range required for GPS altitude calculations. Figure 128 shows the
Altitude Aided Mode.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The GPS sensor enters the “Aided Mode” during short periods (Less than 30
seconds) of bad satellite coverage. An example of bad satellite coverage is poor
satellite geometry, where at least 4 satellites are available but they are not spread
out far enough so the GPS sensor unit can make an accurate position fix.
In the aided mode, the GPS sensor unit receives altitude, heading and
groundspeed from the Flight Management System (FMS). The GPS sensor unit
uses this data to go back into Navigation mode when there is good satellite
coverage again. During the Aided Mode the GPS sensor unit output is once
again “Non Computed Data (NCD)
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
YES
COVERAGE?
NO
AVAIL?
SATS
BAD
SAT
ARE
4
A
C
YES
YES
NO
ALTITUDE AIDED
PASSED?
NO
AVAIL?
SATS
AIDED
MODE
MODE
ARE
SEC
30
4
NO
YES
YES
A
ACQUISITION
COVERAGE?
NAVIGATION
POWER-UP
YES
AVAIL?
ONLY 3
AVAIL?
THERE
MODE
MODE
SATS
SATS
BAD
SAT
ARE
ARE
4
NO
C
NO
NO
B
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the RAIM is to monitor the status of the satellites that the GPS
sensor unit is using for its navigation calculations. The output of the RAIM
function is an estimate of the GPS position error. The RAIM value goes to the
Flight Management System (FMS) and is used by the FMS to determine if the
GPS data can be used for navigation. Figure 130 shows the operation of RAIM.
5
SATELLITE 2
CURRENTLY
MONITORED
4
3
RAIM Operation
Figure 130
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The accuracy of the GPS is typically 15 – 25 metres in 95% of the position fixes
available. The USA Department of Defence degrades this accuracy for security
reasons to 100 metres in 95% of the position fixes. However, this error can be
further reduced to almost zero by the use of “Differential GPS”.
ERROR CALCULATION
ERROR TRANSMISSION
Differential GPS
Figure 131
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
This type of compass comprises a magnet system in a liquid filled bowl. In this
type the compass card is attached to single angular cobalt steel magnet which is
suspended in a sapphire cup by an iridium tipped pivot. Figure 132 shows a
common type of direct reading compass.
MOUNTING
PLATE
HORIZONTAL
(“B” & “C”)
CORRECTORS
FILLER
PLUG
BELLOWS
BOWL
Damping is achieved by filling the compass bowl with a mineral liquid or alcohol,
which has a low viscosity, low freezing point, high resistance to corrosion and
does not discolour. The compass is also given buoyancy by the liquid and this
reduces wear on the pivots. The compass liquid expands and retracts with
changes in temperature and this has undesirable effects. To compensate for this,
a bellows or corrugated diaphragm is fitted.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
On some modern aircraft the direct reading compass is stowed on the center
windscreen strut, only being used in an emergency. They also have to have
some sort of lighting; this lighting is operated by dc and does not effect the
compass operation. Figure 134 shows two types of compass fitted to modern
aircraft.
FIXED
COMPASS
HINGED
COMPASS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The (magnetic gyro) compass system provides the flight crew with magnetic
heading information. A compass card in the radio magnetic indicators (RMI's) on
the instrument panel displays the heading, which must be read against a
reference point or a lubber line.
115v 400 Hz
B C
+ _ + _
N 3
33
0
6
W 3
A A
24
12
D D
F 21 15 F
S
VOR VOR
SLAVED
DG SYNC
VOR/ADF
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A flux valve, or detector unit, senses the angle of the horizontal component of the
Earth's magnetic field with respect to the aircraft's heading, and gives a long-term
stable signal to monitor the gyro controlled master shaft. The detector unit can
best be described as a North sensing device which is capable of detecting the
direction of the horizontal component of the Earth's field and transmitting it to
other components. It is similar to a CX in a synchro control system.
SIDE
VIEW
LAMINATED
COLLECTOR A
HORNS
A
AC POWER
EXCITER B
COIL
C B
TOP SECONDARY
C
VIEW PICK-OFF
COILS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
1. Synchronisation Annunciator.
2. Synchronisation Knob.
3. Slaved/DG Switch.
This indicates the synchronisation between the DU heading and the gyro
heading. If there is a discrepancy between the two headings then the indicator
will show either a “DOT” or a “CROSS”.
The compass systems normal operation mode is the slaved mode, where the
DU/gyro headings are slaved together (DU will precess the gyro when an error
occurs between the two detected headings. In the DG mode, the DU is removed
from the system and the compass operates as a “Directional Gyro”. This mode is
used more in maintenance when aircraft heading is required. If used in flight
there is a possibility that the heading indication will drift due to gyro drift.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
SYNCHRONISATION
SLAVED/DG ANNUNCIATOR
SWITCH
COMPASS
DG
HDG
SLEW
COMPASS
SLAVE
SLAVED
SYNCHRONISATION
SWITCH
The synchro transmitters in the RMI and in the directional gyro unit are used to
"transmit" the heading information to the following systems:
1. Autopilot.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The sensitivity of the cross-dot annunciator. When the card is moved 5° away
from the synchronised position with the manual synchronisation knob the cross or
the dot must be completely visible.
The slaving speed when the card is moved 10° away from the synchronised
position the automatic slaving system should move the card to the synchronised
position within 10 minutes (min. slaving speed 1°/min).
The directional gyro drift with the slaving cut-out switch in DG the gyro drift should
not exceed (3.75 x sine attitude + 1.75° per 15 minutes).
The basic element of this compass system is a directional gyro. When the
system is supplied with 115-V AC the gyro starts to rotate and becomes a stable
element, which means that its direction (heading) in space is fixed.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
A servo loop between the gyro and the compass card in the RMI ensures that any
change of aircraft heading causes a corresponding rotation of the compass card,
but in the opposite direction. The servo loop comprises a synchro transmitter
(Tx), a control transformer (CT), a servo amplifier and a servomotor.
The rotor of the synchro transmitter points in the same direction as the gyro.
The error signal is applied via the servo amplifier to the motor. The motor in its
turn drives the compass card and the rotor of the control transformer. When the
latter rotates, the error signal reduces to zero and the motor stops rotating.
The rotor is powered with a 400-Hz signal, which causes a 400-Hz magnetic field.
This magnetic field produces 3 voltages in the stator windings of the synchro
transmitter. The 3 voltages in the control transformer cause a resulting magnetic
field.
The rotor of the control transformer produces an error signal any time the rotor of
the control transformer is not perpendicular with the direction of the resulting
magnetic field.
The error signal is applied via the servo amplifier to the motor. The motor in its
turn drives the compass card and the rotor of the control transformer. When the
latter rotates, the error signal reduces to zero and the motor stops rotating.
If the aircraft changes heading, the direction of the 400-Hz magnetic field in the
synchro transmitter changes with respect of the stator windings and therefore the
direction of the resulting magnetic field in the control transformer changes too.
An error signal is now present and after amplification the "heading" of the
compass card and the rotor of the control transformer changes accordingly and
the compass card reads the new aircraft heading.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
26V AC
INNER
400 Hz
RING
CX
GYRO
OUTER
RING
GYRO CASE
TORQUE
MOTOR
TM
GENERATOR
TACHO
TG
COMPASS
ANNUNCIATOR
CARD
VELOCITY FEEDBACK
M
SERVO
HEADING SHAFT
AMP
SLAVING
AMP
EXCITATION
(AC)
DU
CT
CT
(FLUX VALVE)
DETECTOR
UNIT
SYNCH
KNOB
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
To obtain a common reference for all aircraft, use is made of the earth magnetic
field the direction of which is detected by a flux valve. A second control
transformer in the RMI compares the compass card reading with the direction of
the earth magnetic field.
Any difference between these two causes an error signal at the output of the rotor
of the control transformer. The error signal is amplified in a slaving amplifier and
this signal drives a torque motor in the directional gyro unit. The torque motor
changes the position of the stable element and of the rotor of the synchro
transmitter. As described for the servo loop, the compass card and rotors of both
control transformers rotate accordingly until the error signals have been reduced
to zero.
The amplified error signal at the output of the slaving amplifier also drives a
cross-dot annunciator. Either a cross or a dot indicates any unsynchronised
condition of the compass system. The cross-dot annunciator can be used to
manually synchronise the compass system by turning the manual synchronising
knob on the control panel in the cross or dot direction until the cross or dot has
disappeared.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Radio altimeters are carried in virtually all aircraft outside the general aviation
sector. The outputs from the system play a vital role in the operation of automatic
landing and ground proximity warning systems. Because the radio altimeter
comes into play at a critical part of the flight, when the aircraft is close to the
ground, the serviceability and accuracy are perhaps more important than with any
other radio system.
Radio altitude, on the other hand, is always the height above the ground
regardless of air pressure or indeed the terrain the aircraft is flying over. It follows
that radio altitude is more useful at low levels, in particular when in the landing
phase or to give ground collision warning.
Radio altimeters are primary radar systems that transmit RF energy and time how
long it takes before an echo is received.
The radio altimeter target is always the ground immediately below the aircraft.
The transmitted beam is broadly directional, pointing straight down, so for
moderate bank and pitch angles part of the beam will be vertical. Figure 139
illustrates the idea showing dual aerial working.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
INDICATOR
TRANSMITTER RECEIVER/MIXER
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
In the receiver mixer, the transmitted and received frequencies are mixed and the
beat frequency (difference) is counted in the counter. The beat counter converts
the frequency difference to an analog dc voltage whose amplitude is a function of
aircraft altitude above the ground. A servo system in the indicator drives the
indication to a position corresponding to the amplitude of the dc voltage received
from the beat counter.
DIAL
INDICATOR
RIBBON
INDICATOR
Radio Altimeters
Figure 140
On the ribbon type indicator, the aircraft reference symbol remains fixed in the
centre while the tape is driven behind it. Different tape colours are used to give
an instant indication of the approximate height. The flag, when activated, partially
obscures the aircraft symbol.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The antennas are so designed so that as long as the roll angle does not exceed
30q, and the pitch attitude is not more than 20q, the altitude indication remains
correct. If these limits are exceeded, then the altitude indications would be
excessive. These high values would not be maintained very long, so do not
present a problem. Figure 141 shows the effects of aircraft roll on the operation
of the Radio Altimeter system.
FAN BEAM
30° 30°
TRANSMISSION
SHORTEST
RETURN PATH
30°
SHORTEST
RETURN PATH
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Radio Altimeter systems are called “Low Range” because they are not intended
to operate at aircraft altitudes above the ground greater than 2,500ft. It is used
mostly during final approach. When making a CAT II approach, the radio
altimeter notifies the crew when the aircraft is 100 feet above the extended
runway. This is the point at which the flight crew must be able to see the runway
to land and is called the “Decision Height”. The decision height may be selected
above 100ft as required.
TX
ANTENNAS
RX
ANTENNAS
HORN ANTENNA
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.54.3 Testing
The Radio Altimeter system may be tested from the transceiver or other areas
depending on aircraft type. When the test switch on the transmitter/receiver is
operated, the integral test lights are tested. A test altitude of 40 ft is given and
lights displayed, 'SYS OK' for serviceable, 'RT' or 'ANT' for a fault, give test
results. Figure 143 shows a radio Altimeter Transceiver.
TEST
SYSTEM OK
R/T UNIT
ANT
IND
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Calm conditions mean that the water droplets in the air are very small and float
gently around, their weight being balanced by air resistance so that they do not
fall to the ground. In turbulent conditions the water droplets or ice particles are
thrown around, collide and stick together. Eventually they become large and
heavy enough to fall to earth.
The more violent the turbulence the larger the droplets will become before falling,
particularly so where there is an updraft of air. If a water droplet is large enough
it will scatter incident electro-magnetic waves, with some of the scattered energy
being in the direction of the transmitter-receiver.
Primary radar, therefore, can be used to detect water droplets and ice particles.
The smaller the wavelength of the incident waves the smaller the water droplets
that will scatter energy.
This also applies to ice particles but the situation is complicated by the form of the
ice i.e.: snowflakes, hailstones or sleet. The larger the droplet, the more energy
is scattered and a cloud mass with large droplets will give rise to strong signals.
Strong signals from a cloud, therefore, suggest turbulent conditions.
Sometimes strong signals are received from one region of a cloud and small
signals from an adjacent region. In this case a high rainfall gradient exists with
strong clearly defined updrafts in the region of the strong signals.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
RFLECTED
ENERGY
SCAN ANGLE
TRANSMITTED
ENERGY
SELECTED
RANGE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The part of a cloud, which gives the strong radar returns, is known as the storm
cell. The closer the storm cell is to the edge of the detected cloud, the higher the
rainfall gradient and the worse the conditions are likely to be.
The function of Weather Radar is to detect and display conditions involving storm
cells and rainfall gradients in such a way as to allow the operator to assess the
probability of turbulence associated with such conditions. Figure 145 shows a
typical weather radar scanner.
AZIMUTH
REFLECTOR GEAR
ELEVATION
GEAR
AERIAL
GIMBAL
WAVEGUIDE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The radar antenna is installed in the nose of the aircraft behind a radome. The
radar transmitter/receiver transmits high-energy pulses via the antenna to the
area in front of the aircraft. The weather radar system moves the antenna from
the left to the right and back again so pulses are transmitted in a wide area in
front of the aircraft.
The weather circumstances in front of the aircraft (rain density in the clouds)
reflect the transmitted pulses back to the weather radar system. The weather
radar antenna receives the reflected pulses. The weather radar receiver converts
the received pulses into a picture, which represents the weather circumstances.
To produce this picture the weather radar system makes use of:
The strength of the reflected pulses which depends on the amount of rain in the
clouds. (The weather radar system converts the strength of the reflected pulses
into a colour).
The time delay between the transmission and reception of the pulses. (The
weather radar system converts the time delay into the distance between the
aircraft and the weather circumstances).
The azimuth angle of the antenna. (The weather radar system uses the azimuth
angle of the antenna to position the weather information on the display.
The radar must display three things: the range, the bearing and the signal
intensity of the cloud.
The display device best suited to showing all three of the above in an easily
assimilated form is the cathode ray tube (CRT) used as a plan position indicator
(PPI).
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
GAIN TILT
UP
SB/T WX WX/T RCT GCR MAP
DWN
MIN MAX
DISPLAY MARKER
FRZ FRZ
LEFT RIGHT
INOP ALRT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
As the aircraft pitches and rolls, the scanner will also pitch and roll. The weather
radar is designed to scan directly in front of the aircraft, so as the aircraft pitches
and roll; the scanner must pitch and roll in the opposite direction to that of the
aircraft. The scanner is therefore mounted on a stabilized platform, which is
maintained at a constant attitude with respect to the horizon. Stabilization is
derived from the Inertial Reference System (IRS).
The pitch and roll stabilization is completely independent system. Each having a
separate motor, giving freedom of rotary movement in both pitch and roll. There
must also be a freedom of movement in azimuth for scanning to port and
starboard. Therefore three rotating joints are required in the scanner waveguide
assembly. Figure 147 shows stabilization for pitch and roll.
ROLL
ANGLE
PITCH
ANGLE
AZIMUTH ANGLE 0°
AZIMUTH ANGLE 90°
NO STABILIZATION REQUIRED
NO STABILIZATION REQUIRED
ROLL PITCH
ANGLE ANGLE
ROLL
PITCH
ANGLE
ANGLE
STABILIZED STABILIZED
Roll/Pitch Stabilization
Figure 147
ANTENNA
PITCH ROLL ASSEMBLY
115V A.C.
POWER
SUPPLIES 28V D.C.
POWER
PART 2
TRANSMITTER
AEROPLANE
Figure 148
GAIN TILT -RECEIVER
UP
CONTROL STAB
AERODYNAMICS,
MIN MAX
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
POWER
LEFT RIGHT
INOP ALRT
SWEEP
Page 2-193
INDICATOR
CONTROL
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
PART 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 149 shows the type of weather radar fitted to modern aircraft.
WAVEGUIDE
SECTION 3
RX/TX
WX
WAVEGUIDE
SECTION 1
WAVEGUIDE
PEDESTAL
ANTENNA
SECTION 2
ANTENNA
30" FLAT
PLATE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The weather radar system has a dedicated control panel for selection of the
required mode of operation. This type of system uses the EFIS ND to display the
weather information. Figure 150 shows the weather display on the EFIS ND on a
Boeing 737 aircraft.
WX
WEATHER +10
RETURN MODE
14 ANNUNCIATION
13
40 TILT ANGLE
1/2 RANGE
INDICATION
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The display is controlled via the EFIS control panel. Figures 151 and 152 shows
an EFIS control panel and a weather radar control panel.
HSI RANGE
EXP
ADI VOR/ 80 160 320
NAV
DH REF ILS 40
VOR/
ILS MAP
20
150 FULL
CTR
NAV MAP 10
PLAN WXR
RST ON
MAP
BRT VOR/ADF NAV AID ARPT RTE DATA WPT
ON ON ON ON ON
MODE
TEST WX WX+T MAP
-7 -6 10
MIN -5 5 15
-4 UP
GAIN 0 TILT
-3 DN
CAL -2 5 15
MAX -1 10
IDNT STAB
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
With the mode selector on the control panel in the TEST position the transmitter
is on for 1 second for a transmitter test. For the remainder of the test the
transmitter is off. A test picture is 'painted' on the EFIS.
A test sweep of + 15° up and -15° down is carried out by the antenna. At the end
of the test the antenna centralizes at 0°.
The following precautions are to be observed for Boeing 737 weather radar
ground operation:
If the radar system is to be operated while the aircraft is on the ground, direct the
nose of the aircraft such that a 240-degree forward sector is free of large metallic
objects (hangars, other aircraft).
Tilt the antenna upward 15 degrees and prevent personnel from standing closer
than 10 feet to the 240-degree forward section of the aircraft. The receiver may
be damaged as a result of strong returns from nearby metallic objects.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 154 shows safety areas and boundary marks to be displayed during
ground operation of weather radar.
WARNING
SIGN
RED/WHITE ROPE
120°
120°
R = 6 MTRS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
2.55.5 Radome
Structural strength comes from how the radome is constructed. Normally they
are of the sandwich type, consisting of a honeycomb structure supported on each
side by a thin skin of laminated glass fibre.
Lightning strike protection takes the form of metal strips bonded to the surface of
the radome and painted over. The strips run from the nose of the radome to the
bulkhead, where good electrical bonding must be achieved so that any lightning
strikes are dissipated in the airframe with minimum damage. Figure 155 shows
the construction of a radome.
Radome Construction
Figure 155
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) is to alert the
flight crew to the existence of an unsafe condition due to terrain proximity. The
various hazardous conditions that may be encountered are divided into 7 Modes.
These are:
7. Mode 7 – Windshear.
“SINK RATE”
WHOOP!
WHOOP!
PULL-UP
GPWS Mode 1
Figure 156
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
“TERRAIN”
“TERRAIN”
WHOOP!
“TERRAIN” WHOOP!
“TERRAIN” PULL-UP
GPWS Mode 2
Figure 157
“DON’T SINK”
GPWS Mode 3
Figure 158
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
“TOO LOW
GEAR…...”
GPWS Mode 4
Figure 159
“GLIDESLOPE”
“GLIDESLOPE
GPWS Mode 5
Figure 160
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
“MINIMUMS”
“MINIMUMS”
DECISION HEIGHT
GPWS Mode 6
Figure 161
STRONG DOWNDRAFT
HEADWIND TAILWIND
“WINDSHEAR”
“WINDSHEAR”
GPWS Mode 7
Figure 162
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
EFIS
SYMBOL
GENERATORS
PULL UP
EADI EADI
PFD PFD
DATA &
LOGIC GROUND
INPUTS BELOW G/S CAPT F/O
PROXIMITY
P - INHIBIT
WARNING
SYSTEM COMPUTER
TEST
GPWS
INOP CONTROL
PANEL
RADIO
ELECTRONICS
UNIT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The GPWC establishes the limits for the GPWS modes and compares the
aircraft’s flight and terrain clearance status against established mode limits. If the
aircraft is found to have entered a GPWS mode, the computer issues appropriate
warning or alerting signals. The computer also stores failure data in a non-
volatile memory for display on a front panel window on the GPWC.
INOP FLAP/GEAR
INHIBIT
CAUTION
OBSERVE PRECAUTIONS NORMAL
FOR HANDLING
ELECTROSTATIC SYS TEST
SENSITIVE
DEVICES
CONTROL PANEL
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The GPWS control panel provides the flight crew with visual indications of GPWS
operation; self-test capability and flap/gear inhibit capability.
INOP Light
Flap/Gear Inhibit
Two warning lights are provided to give visual indication of ground proximity
warnings. These are:
1. PULL-UP.
2. BELOW G/S.
The red PULL-UP light illuminates when Mode 1,2,3 or 4 flight path is detected.
The amber BELOW G/S warning light illuminates when glide slope deviation
becomes excessive. Pressing the BELOW G/S switch inhibits the warning.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
10
180 10
160
150
140
10
10
120
WINDSHEAR DH 350
GS RA 1620
173
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The purpose of the BITE is to perform an internal check of the GPWC functions,
to record past faults that occur during the last ten flights, and to annunciate
system status information.
Continuous Test – Performed during each program loop. This checks the CPU
operation and data input integrity for shorts to ground or open circuits. The ADC,
IRS, ILS and RAD ALT systems and internal power supplies are also monitored
for valid data.
Periodic Test – Tests requiring excessive processing time are subdivided into
small segments. Tests on the individual segments are performed sequentially,
one segment during each program loop. Periodic tests include checks on the
processor instruction sets, program memory contents, RAM addressing and
storage functions, voice memory addressing and contents, parity of received data
and the ability to read the data.
Event-Initiated Tests – These are performed during or after a specific event has
occurred. They include resetting the program a fraction of a second prior to a
power supply failure. Checksumming the data stored in the non-volatile fault
memory at power up. Checksumming the data written after entering data and
sampling and storing program pin status at power up. Restarting the CPU at a
known location in the program after loss of CPU.
AEROPLANE
Figure 166
AERODYNAMICS,
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
STALL MONITOR
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
HS FLAPS/AOA INOP
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
WARNING
G/S
POS
GEAR
PP/TKE GEAR
FMC LS POS NORMAL
Page 2-209
POSITION
SWITCHES
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
PART 2
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The EGPWS contains all the modes as with the standard GPWS with some
additional features. The system contains a worldwide terrain database, an
obstacle database and a worldwide airport database, and using this extra data
enables the system to give an Enhanced GPWS. The additional features are as
follows:
Terrain alerting and display (TAD) - This provides a graphic display of the
surrounding terrain on the Weather Radar Indicator, EFIS or a dedicated GPWS
display. Based on the aircraft’s position and the internal database (terrain
topography), all terrain that is above or within 2000 feet below the aircraft’s
altitude is presented on the system display. This feature is an option, enabled by
program pins during installation.
Terrain Clearance Floor – This feature adds and additional element of protection
by alerting the flight crew of possible premature descent. This is intended for
non-precision approaches and is based on the current aircraft position relative to
the nearest runway. This feature is enabled with the TAD feature.
Note; Some of these features have been added to the EGPWS as the system
evolved and are not present in all EGPWS part numbers.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
With the use of accurate GPS and FMS information, the EGPWS is provided
aircraft’s present position, track, and ground speed. With this information the
EGPWS is able to present a graphical plan view of the aircraft relative to the
terrain and advise the flight crew of any potential conflict with the terrain or an
obstacle.
Conflicts are recognised and alerts are provided when terrain violates specific
computed envelope boundaries on the projected flight path of the aircraft. Alerts
are provided in the form of visual light annunciation of a caution or warning, audio
enunciation based on the type of conflict, and colour enhanced visual display of
the terrain or obstacle relative to the forward look of the aircraft. Figure 167
shows Terrain/Obstacle database.
OBSTACLES
SURVEY POINTS
ABOVE SEA LEVEL
Terrain/Obstacle Database
Figure 167
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 168 shows a graph on when caution and warning alerts are triggered.
50% YELLOW
25% YELLOW
16% GREEN
50% GREEN
50% RED
MAX ELEVATION No
MIN ELEVATION No
REF ALTITUDE -250/500
REF ALTITUDE +2000
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Table 3 shows the different Terrain/Obstacle threat levels and the colour
indication present with TAD and Peaks selected.
Colour Indication
Solid Red Terrain/Obstacle threat warning.
Solid Yellow Terrain/Obstacle threat warning.
50% Red Dots Terrain/Obstacle that is more than 2000 feet
above the aircraft.
50% Yellow Dots Terrain/Obstacle that is between 1000 and 2000
feet above the aircraft’s attitude.
25% Yellow Dots Terrain/Obstacle that is 500 (250 with gear
down) feet below to 1000 feet above the
aircraft’s altitude.
Solid Green Shown only when no red or yellow
(Peaks Only) Terrain/Obstacle areas are within range on the
display. Highest terrain/obstacle not within 500
(250 with gear down) feet of the aircraft’s
altitude.
50% Green Dots Terrain/Obstacle that is 500 (250 with gear
down) feet below to 1000 below the aircraft'’
altitude.
50% Green Dots Terrain/Obstacle that is in the middle elevation
(Peaks Only) band when there is no red or yellow terrain
areas within range on the display.
16% Green Terrain/Obstacle that is 1000 to 2000 feet below
the aircraft’s altitude.
16% Green Terrain/Obstacle that is the lower elevation band
(peaks Only) when there is no Red or Yellow terrain areas
within range on the display.
Black No significant Terrain/Obstacle
16% Cyan Water at Sea Level Elevation (0 feet MSL)
Magenta Dots Unknown terrain. No terrain data in the
database for the magenta area shown.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 169 shows a Weather Radar Display used for EGPWS displays.
40 DIM
20 80
10 160
320
OFF
CAUTION TERRAIN RANGE WARNING TERRAIN
(RED)
(YELLOW)
RNG 20
TERRAIN
(GREEN)
TERR
EGPWS Display
Figure 169
With a compatible EFIS or Weather Radar display, the EGPWS TAD feature
provides an image of the surrounding terrain represented in various colours and
intensities. There are two types of TAD display depending on the options
selected:
Standard TAD – Provides a terrain image only when the aircraft’s altitude is 2000
feet or less above the terrain.
Note; Obstacles are presented on the display as terrain, using the same colour
scheme. Peaks and Obstacle functions are enabled by EGPWS program pin
selection.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
REF
ALT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
This special feature utilizes the internal database to tailor EGPWS alerts at
certain geographical locations to reduce nuisance warning and provide added
protection. Due to terrain features at or near certain specific airports around the
world, in the past, normal operations have resulted in nuisance or missed alerts
at these locations. With the introduction of accurate position information and a
terrain and airport database, it is possible to identify these areas and adjust the
normal alerting process to compensate for the condition.
Modes 4,5, and 6 are expanded at certain locations to provide alerting protection
consistent with normal approaches. Modes 1,2 and 4 are desensitized at other
locations to prevent nuisance warnings that result from unusual terrain or
approach procedures. In all cases, very specific information is used to correlate
the aircraft position and phase of flight prior to modulating the envelopes.
ENVELOPE
MODULATION
AREA
Envelope Modulation
Figure 171
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Through sophisticated look ahead algorithms, both caution and warning alerts are
generated if terrain or an obstacle conflict with “Ribbons” projected forward of the
aircraft. Figure 172 shows the Terrain Look Ahead Alerting function.
WARNING
(TYPICALLY 30 SEC
AHEAD OF TERRAIN)
CAUTION
(TYPICALLY 60 SEC
AHEAD OF TERRAIN)
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
laterally (more if turning). The look-ahead and up angles are a function of the
aircraft flight path angle, and the look-ahead distance are a function of the
aircraft’s altitude with respect to the nearest runway. This relationship prevents
undesired alerts when taking off and landing.
The look-ahead distance is a function of the aircraft’s speed and distance to the
nearest runway. A terrain conflict intruding into the caution ribbon activates the
EGPWS caution lights and the aural message “CAUTION TERRAIN, CAUTION
TERRAIN” or “TERRAIN AHEAD, TERRAIN AHEAD”. The caution alert is given
typically 60 seconds ahead of the terrain conflict and is repeated every seven
seconds as long as the conflict remains within the caution area.
When the warning ribbon is intruded, typically 30 seconds ahead of the terrain,
EGPWS warning lights activate and the aural message “TERRAIN, TERRAIN,
PULL UP” is enunciated with “PULL UP” repeating continuously while the conflict
is within the warning area.
Note; the specific aural message provided is established during the initial
installation of the EGPWS and is a function of whether or not the terrain features
are enabled and the selected audio menu (via program pins).
The TCF function enhances the basic GPWS Modes by alerting the flight crew of
a descent below a defined “Terrain Clearance Floor” regardless of the aircraft’s
configuration. The TCF alert is a function of the aircraft’s RAD ALT and distance
(calculated from Lat/Long position) relative to the center of the nearest runway in
the database.
TCF alerts result in the illumination of the EGPWS caution lights and the aural
message “TOO LOW TERRAIN”. The audio message is provided once when
initial envelope penetration occurs and again only for an additional 20% decrease
in RAD ALT altitude. The EGPWS caution lights will remain on until the TCF
envelope is exited.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
½ R U N WA Y
LE NG TH
EN V ELOP E
B IA S FA C TOR
15N M
12N M
4N M
15 N M
12 N M
4 NM
E N V E LO P E
B IA S
“TO O LOW TE RR A IN ” F AC T O R
“TO O LOW TE RR A IN ”
T E R RA IN C L E A RA N C E F L O O R
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The EGPWS TCF and TAD functions are available when all required data is
present and acceptable. Aircraft position and numerous other parameters are
monitored and verified for adequacy in order to perform these functions. If
determined invalid or unavailable, the system will display “TERRAIN
INOPERATIVE” or unavailable annunciation’s and discontinue the terrain display
if active. TAD/TCF functions may be inhibited by manual selection of a cockpit
“TERRAIN INHIBIT SWITCH”.
Note; neither loss nor inhibited TAD/TCF effects the basics GPWS functions
Modes 1 –7.
GND
PROX
GND PROX
TERR
OVRD
OVRD
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The EGPWS uses various input signals from other on-board systems. The full
compliment of these other systems depends on the EGPWS configuration and
options selected. The basic enhanced facilities require:
2. Airspeed (IAS/TAS).
3. Attitude (IRS).
4. Glideslope (ILS).
6. Flap/Gear Position.
a) Accelerations (IRS).
b) Angle of Attack.
c) Flap Position.
Inputs are also required for discrete signals. These discrete inputs are used for
system configuration, signal/status input and control input functions. EGPWS
program pins are utilized to inform the system of the type of aircraft and interface
that is in use. These are established during EGPWS installation.
Discrete signals also include signals for “Decision Height”, Landing Flaps”
selected, display range and status discrete such as RAD ALT/ILS valid.
EGPWS provides both visual and audio outputs. The visual outputs provide
discrete alert and status annunciations and display terrain video on a compatible
CRT screen. Audio enunciations are provided (via the aircraft’s interphone
system) at specific alert phases.
Figure 175
C
E
AEROPLANE
EGPWS System
DADC S
AERODYNAMICS,
S
MODULE 11 BOOK 2
S TERRAIN CLEARANCE
JAR 66 CATEGORY B1
IRS S
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The EGPWS is fully active when the following systems are powered and
functioning normally:
1. EGPWS.
2. RADIO ALTIMTER.
4. ILS (Glideslope).
6. GEAR/FLAPS.
In the event that the required data for a particular function is not available, then
that function is automatically inhibited and annunciated (e.g. if PP data is not
available or determined unacceptable, TAD/TCF is inhibited, any active terrain
display is removed and “TERR INOP” indicated on CRT display.
The EGPWS provides a Self-Test Capability for verifying and indicating intended
functions. This Self-Test capability consists of six levels to aid testing and
troubleshooting the EGPWS. These six levels are:
Level 2 - Current Faults. Provides a list of internal and external faults currently
detected by the EGPWC.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Note: Level 2 – 6 tests are typically used for installation checkout and
maintenance operations.
40 DIM
20 80
10 160
320
OFF
RANGE
RNG 160
TERR ST
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Air Data systems depend upon Pitot and Static pressure sensing, as well as
temperature sensing. Static air pressure is the pressure of the outside air at the
location of the aircraft. Pitot pressure is the dynamic pressure caused by the
forward motion of the aircraft. Temperature sensing is required to calculate the
Total/Static Air Temperature (TAT/SAT), and for calculating True Air Speed
(TAS). Figure 178 shows a Pitot/Static probe.
STATIC
LINE NO1
PITOT
LINE
HEATER
CONNECTION
STATIC
LINE NO2
PITOT
STATIC
PORTS
Pitot/Static Probe
Figure 178
In a parked aircraft, the pitot and static pressures are equal. In a moving aircraft,
the pitot pressure is greater because additional pressure is developed at the
forward end of the tube by its motion through the air. Altitude is calculated on the
basis of static air pressure, and airspeeds are calculated on the basis of the
difference between pitot and static pressures.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Total Air temperature (TAT), is the static air temperature plus the rise in
temperature created due to the pitot effect. TAT is of great importance in setting
the operating conditions of a jet engine, since the temperature of the air entering
the engine is static air temperature increased by the pitot factor. It is also
possible to derive Static Air Temperature (SAT), from TAT and pitot pressure
information. Figure 179 shows a basic Total Air Temperature (TAT) probe.
AIR FLOW
SENSING METERED
ELEMENT ORIFICE
(VERY SMALL)
ELECTRICAL
CONNECTION
ELECTRICAL
SIGNAL OF
TEMPERATURE
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Pitot and static pressures are transmitted through seamless and corrosion-
resistant metal (light alloy) pipelines. Flexible pipelines are also used when
connections to components mounted on anti-vibration mountings are required. In
order for an Air Data System to operate effectively under all flight conditions,
provision must also be made for the elimination of water that may enter the
system as a result of condensation, rain, snow, etc. This will reduce the
probability of “Slugs” of water blocking the lines.
This provision takes the form of drain holes in the probes, drain taps and valves
in the system’s pipelines. The drain holes within the probes are of diameter so as
not to introduce errors into the system. Methods of draining the pipelines varies
between aircraft types and are designed to have a capacity sufficient to allow for
the accumulation of the maximum amount of water that could enter the system
between maintenance periods. Figure 181 shows a typical water drain valve.
ORANGE
FLOAT
TRANSPARENT
INDICATOR
PLASTIC PIPE
DRAIN
VALVE BAYONET
FITTING
CAP
(SELF SEALING)
Water Drain
Figure 181
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Figure 182 shows a typical air data system for a large aircraft.
REC
FLT
ADC 1
ADC 2
MS 2
A/S 1
PRESS
DIFF
MS 1
A/S 2
PC
LOWER
LOWER
PRESSURE HEADS
PRESSURE HEADS
UPPER
UPPER
PITOT PITOT
STATIC STATIC
ALT
ALT
IAS
IAS
VS
VS
CAPT
F/O
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
4. Altitude.
The system supplies air data information to any system in either digital or analog
form.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
TRUE AIRSPEED
AIRSPEED HOLD
VSI, FDR
(AUTOPILOT)
(AUTOPILOT)
MACH HOLD
FDR
ALTITUDE
AIRSPEED
TRUE
MACH
INDICATED
AIRSPEED
TEMPERATURE
PRESSURE
PRESSURE
TOTAL AIR
STATIC
PITOT
The four blocks within the computer represent modules, which are capable of
supplying the information and controls indicated with the information required.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The module contains a capsule for measuring the static pressure and an “E & I”
pick off. The “E & I” pick-off changes the capsule movement into an electrical
signal. This electrical signal is amplified and then fed to a motor servo system.
The motor will drive a gear train to move the output devices to give the correct
altitude reading. Figure 184 shows the altitude module of an ADC.
AC
EXCITATION
M
STATIC
PRESSURE
ALTITUDE
RATE
G
GEAR TRAIN
ALTITUDE
DIGITAL ATC
ENCODER TRANSPONDER
CT
ALTITUDE
0V +10V
Altitude Module
Figure 184
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
True Airspeed (TAS) and Indicated Airspeed (IAS) are the same value at sea
level; however, as altitude increases, holding the same IAS results in an
increasing TAS. For example; 400kts IAS at sea level becomes 450kts TAS at
10,000ft, and approximately 550kts TAS at 20,000ft. Figure 185 shows the
relationship between IAS/TAS/Mack with an increase of altitude.
.90
50 .885
MACH NO
40
IAS
36,000ft
350
30
400
21,000ft
20
ALTITUDE
1,000ft
10
0
250 300 350 400 450 500 550 600
TAS/IAS/Mach Vs Altitude
Figure 185
In the diagram above the Mach No lines are drawn on the basis of a standard day
temperature chart; It can be seen that .90 Mach at sea level would be 600kts
TAS. From above 36,000ft, .90 Mach equals only 525kts TAS. If an aircraft is
limited to Mach .885/IAS 390kts, it could fly at 390kts up to 21,000ft. Above this
height, the IAS would have to decrease to ensure that the maximum Mach No of
.885 is not exceeded.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
POT
TAT
MACH MODULE
M
POT
TAS MODULE
M
POT
(ALT MODULE)
POT
ALT
MACH
TAS
CT
POT
IAS MODULE
IAS
CT
PICK-OFF
E
PRESS
CABIN
(MACH MODULE)
ALT
ALT
RATE
ALT
ALT
CT
POT
MODULE
ALT
G
ENCODER
M
ATCRBS
PICK-OFF
ALT HOLD
E
CT
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
The DADC uses digital computing and electronic circuits rather than the servo
motor system to calculate the outputs. Analog inputs are converted into digital for
computation. The outputs required are then either converted back to analog or
left as digital signals and output via the ARINC 429 or 629 data busses.
ANALOG
DIGITAL
O/Ps
O/Ps
D/AO/P
A/D
PROCESSOR
& MEMORY
CENTRAL
CCTS
I/P
& MULTIPLEXER
BRIDGE CCTS
TRANDUCER
TRANDUCER
STATIC
PITOT
ENGAGE
IAS HOLD
ALT HOLD
MACH HOLD
ENGAGE
ENGAGE
MILLIBAR
SET
STATIC
PITOT
TEMP
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
Static pressure (Ps) - Is the ambient atmosphere pressure, which acts on the
surface of a body in rest.
Total pressure (Pt) or pitot pressure - Is the sum of static pressure and the
impact pressure and is the total force which acts on the surface of a body in
motion.
Impact pressure - Is the force we need to stop moving air. It is the actual
pressure, which a body in motion feels. It is equal to total pressure minus static
pressure (Pt-Ps). The relation impact pressure - speed is not linear due to the
compressibility and changes in density of the air. The computer software has the
formula to change impact pressure into airspeed.
Baro corrected altitude - Is the pressure altitude corrected for QFE or QNH
barometric correction signals (this requires a manual input for the computer from
an altimeter set panel).
Altitude rate - The change in altitude in ft per min. We also call this signal
vertical speed, vertical rate, rate of climb or baro rate.
Mach number (Ma) - Is the ratio between the true airspeed and the speed of
sound.
Angle Of Attack (AOA) - Is the angle between the longitudinal axis of the aircraft
and the flight path of the aircraft measured from the aircraft’s centre of mass.
Corrected angle of attack - Is the local AOA from the AOA transducers
corrected for errors as a function of machnumber.
AEROPLANE
AERODYNAMICS,
STRUCTURES & SYSTEMS
True airspeed (TAS) - Is the speed of the aircraft with respect to the ambient air
through which it flies. It is airspeed (impact pressure) corrected for
compressibility and density. This depends on altitude and temperature.
Total Air Temperature (TAT) - To measure the outside air temperature we install
a sensor outside the aircraft. When we fly the sensor is in an airstream. The
airstream hits the sensor, comes to a stop, rises in pressure and therefore rises in
temperature. The air temperature plus the temperature rise is called total air
temperature.