Category: Show News

Honeywell And Curtiss-Wright Use Connectivity To Reinvent Airplane Black Box Recorders

Honeywell and Curtiss-Wright Corp. have partnered to develop an entirely new way for airlines to monitor and analyze flight data. Honeywell and Curtiss-Wright say they will use real-time connectivity to reinvent the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR)for the commercial airline, cargo transport and business jet markets.

The companies have signed an agreement to develop the next generation of mandate-compliant CVRs and FDRs, essential equipment in helping accident investigators, regulatory agencies, aircraft manufacturers and airlines determine the cause of an accident and making aviation safer. As part of the new agreement, Curtiss-Wright will be the exclusive supplier for Honeywell’s next-generation recorders for the air transport and business aviation markets.

The new recorder will serve as a “black box in the sky,” meaning owners, operators and manufacturers will have the option to always access the critical aircraft data, resulting in the potential for improving maintenance and operational insight through data analytics. In addition, in the event of an emergency, the data on board will be quickly and more easily accessible to investigators.

As a rich source of aircraft data, black boxes have helped improve aviation safety standards since their introduction in the 1950s, providing vital information on thousands of variables including fuel levels, altitude, engine performance, temperature, direction and speed. This ensures that, in the event of an accident, investigators can use the data to learn more about the chain of events leading up to it. However, black boxes can be difficult to locate and retrieve in the aftermath of an accident to extract this vital information.

“The importance of reliable Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorders cannot be overstated. That’s why we are working alongside Curtiss-Wright to design and develop the next generation of recorders that leverages our full hardware and software expertise to meet the 25-hour requirement, to identify the right information and make it available to airline operators when it’s most needed,” said Ben Driggs, president, Services & Connectivity, at Honeywell Aerospace. “With the new regulatory requirement, we saw an opportunity to evolve our recorder technology to not only meet the conditions of governing agencies, but also make this product more powerful and better connected, providing aircraft operators with another source of data collection that can be used to improve aircraft maintenance and performance.”

The companies will jointly develop the hardware for the new black boxes, and Honeywell will modernize the software capabilities for easier access to real-time data during flight. This will provide owners, operators and aircraft manufacturers with new cockpit voice and flight data recording options to help decrease aircraft downtime and, in the event of an emergency, help with the accompanying investigation. Operators will benefit from real-time information streaming and server storage capabilities, enabled by Honeywell’s Connected Aircraft software, which allows for the swift and remote retrieval of data from the aircraft for storage or analysis.

“Honeywell and Curtiss-Wright have long been pioneers and innovators of crash-protected recorders, providing Flight Data Recorders to the industry for over 50 years,” said David C. Adams, chairman and chief executive officer of Curtiss-Wright. “Working together, we will take Flight Data Recorder connectivity and performance to new heights, with extended operation and greater survivability. Bringing our combined experience to the marketplace will generate financial, safety and operational benefits for years to come.”

The new CVR and FDR, branded Honeywell Connected Recorder-25, or HCR-25, will surpass the requirements of the upcoming 2021 European Aviation Safety Agency minimum 25-hour cockpit voice recording mandates. This means the aircraft data can be used for more efficient operations and real-time playback of data and voice communications.

Along with added connectivity, the next-generation recorders are an easy upgrade. They were designed as form-fit replacements for Honeywell’s HFR-5 series Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorders, which will help save installation time and costs. Curtiss-Wright recently certified its Fortress recorder, a 25-hour CVR-FDR recorder that is used as the foundation for the new HCR-25.

As part of the development of the new recorders, Honeywell will offer the product in several variants, including as a standalone CVR, as a standalone FDR, or as a combined Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorder.

Satcom Direct/Skyservice to Generate First STC for SD Data Link Learjet 45

The Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) authority has awarded Skyservice Business Aviation an STC for installation of the Satcom Direct Data Link Unit (DLU) upgrade on the Learjet 45 type. SD supported Skyservice through the TCCA STC process, and with the EASA and FAA submissions whose approvals are expected in the second quarter of 2019.

Of the three Skyservice Learjet 45 aircraft, one is already benefiting from the system installation, with the next two scheduled for SD DLU upgrade in early 2019. Upon completion, the installations will support CPDLC (FANS1/A and ATN- B) compliance to augment operational safety. Skyservice will use their STC to support other Learjet 45 operators requiring installation which helps retain asset value while optimizing performance.

“Skyservice is one of the first MROs to comply with 9,600/10,000/14,800-hour inspections and has more than 30-years-experience in Learjet maintenance. The SD DLU is a proven product that supports more efficient  Learjet 45 operations. With their support we are now positioned to be the facility of choice for these upgrades,” said Paul Weeks, vice president, Maintenance for Skyservice Business Aviation.

“Skyservice has a long legacy of excellent support for Learjet 45. Our DLU solution makes operating these aircraft safer and helps manage operating costs,” said Robert Vega, director of Product Management at SD. “Our DLU is already fitted on numerous aircraft and we’re excited to have this newest STC available for the aviation industry. The upgrade allows operators to both reap the benefits of more efficient routes and preserve critical safety features including FANS-1/A compliance.”

Golan Joins Universal Avionics as Rotorcraft BD Manager

Tal Golan has been appointed to the newly created position of Rotorcraft Business Development manager at Universal Avionics (UA).

Tal joins UA with an extensive aviation and business development background and 20 years of experience in the commercial aviation industry as a pilot of both rotor and fixed wing aircraft.

“The addition of Tal signals our continued focus on expanding our product solutions to solve a growing need within the rotorcraft industry,” said Dan Reida, VP of Sales, Marketing, and Support for Universal Avionics. “Tal brings a great deal of experience and expertise to UA, he is a great addition to our team,” he added. “We are excited to have him on board.”

Boeing Invests in Isotropic Systems Ltd. to Expand Satellite Communications Capabilities

Boeing has invested in Isotropic Systems Ltd., a London-based startup pioneering next-generation solutions to better connect people and enterprises around the globe.

By taking advantage of optical beam steering, Isotropic’s user terminals can simultaneously connect with several different satellites without increasing cost or complexity. This capability will help enable low-cost, mass-market broadband connectivity for consumers and help companies meet growing demand for satellite data, mobility and broadband services even in the most remote places.

“Isotropic’s solution allows for increased capabilities at reduced costs for satellite service providers,” said Brian Schettler, managing director of Boeing HorizonX Ventures. “This investment accelerates the expansion of space-based connectivity services to the mass market and continues Boeing’s leadership in space innovation.”

Founded in 2013 by chief executive officer John Finney, a former founding member of O3b Networks, Isotropic has redefined the approach to mass distribution of satellite broadband through affordable infrastructure.

“With Boeing, we aim to connect individuals and enterprises on a scale that has never been seen before,” said Finney. “That legacy of true global connection will define our generation.”

Isotropic joins Boeing subsidiary Millennium Space Systems and Boeing HorizonX Ventures portfolio startups Myriota, BridgeSat Inc. and Accion Systems in advancing the company’s satellite and space-based capabilities. Isotropic is the second UK-based startup to join the HorizonX portfolio, following Reaction Engines in April 2018.

“This investment is another indication of the strength of the UK’s aerospace and technology sectors, and Boeing’s commitment to growing in the UK,” said Sir Michael Arthur, president of Boeing Europe and managing director of Boeing UK and Ireland.

Boeing HorizonX Ventures led the Series A funding round with participation from WML, Space Angels and Space Capital. This latest investment will connect the Isotropic team with Boeing experts and resources to help advance the development of its terminal solutions.

Boeing HorizonX Ventures targets investments that help scale startup innovation in aerospace. Its portfolio includes companies specializing in autonomous systems, additive manufacturing, energy and data storage, advanced materials, augmented reality systems and software, machine learning, hybrid-electric and hypersonic propulsion and Internet of Things connectivity.

Cobham Signs Contract with Boeing for Cockpit Connectivity Solution

Cobham and Boeing have signed a Technical Service Agreement (TSA) for the certification of the AVIATOR 200S system on the Boeing 777X and 737 MAX airplanes. The agreement provides a Boeing line fit option for Aviator 200S, which provides Inmarsat’s new generation SwiftBroadband Safety (SB-S) service to airline customers worldwide.

Cobham’s AVIATOR 200S product offers a smaller, lighter, powerful satcom solution to airlines and addresses the growing demand from airlines for continuous secure data exchange between their ground operations and their aircraft. The AVIATOR S series of products supports secure IP and ACARS data services, multiple IP voice channels, and powers a growing range of cutting edge applications that enhance safety and improve operational efficiency.

“We are delighted that Boeing will be offering the benefits of AVIATOR 200S to their customers. It will be particularly appealing to airlines looking to optimise flight deck connectivity whilst retaining system commonality across their fleet,” says Paul Kahn, president, Cobham Communications and Connectivity.

AFuzion Launches New Aviation Security Services & Training at Aerospace Tech Week, Munich, Germany: March 12, 2019

AFuzion, the world’s leader in aviation development optimization and certification, announces the launch of its new Aviation Cyber-Security Services and Training to coincide with Europe’s largest aviation conference.  Aerospace Tech Week taking place in Munich, Germany on March 12-13, will host the world leaders in aviation technology. Over 1,000 aviation technology participants are expected to converge on Munich in six weeks to showcase emerging technologies and capabilities. Dozens of technical presentations will be made and aviation-certification related classes will be held to further enable aviation development optimization.  Foremost among these new technologies is Aviation Cyber-Security, meant to ensure prevention and mitigation of electronic incursions into the aircraft operational ecosystem.

March 12, 2019 at Aerospace Tech Week will feature AFuzion’s 1-day course on Aviation Cyber Security and DO-326A / ED-202A compliance. In addition AFuzion’s DO-178C and ARP4754A courses which will also be taught at Aerospace Tech Week, AFuzion’s new Aviation Cyber-Security course on March 12, 2019 will enable attendees to understand the emerging requirements for aviation developers to meet compliance with these new cyber

-security standards and ensure safe development and operation of aircraft, avionics and related systems.  Details of this March 12, 2019 course at Aerospace Tech Week in Munich, Germany can be found here: https://www.aerospacetechweek.com/event/certified-training/

 

Why is aviation cyber-security so important and what are the new requirements?  Says Aharon David, the manager of AFuzion’s new Aviation Cyber-Security division:  “DO-326A/ED-202A is an ‘Airworthiness Security Process Specification’, used to mitigate effects of intentional electrical equipment intrusion, a.k.a. “IUEI” (Intentional Unauthorized Electronic Interaction) which could impact aircraft safety. DO-326A/ED-202A currently has 3 (three) companion documents: ED-201, DO-355/ED-204 and DO-356A / ED-203A (see below for detailed information) , and a few more planned. DO-326A / ED202A provide requirements and objectives in a similar fashion to DO-178C, DO-254, and ARP4754A; while the DO-326A guidance is just that, certification authorities increasingly assess DO-326A compliance as added requirements for aviation suppliers. Currently, DO-326A/ED-202A only applies to larger commercial aircraft, greater than 19 seats, hence is for Part 25 fixed-wing aircraft, however – clear FAA recommendations already exist for the adaptation/tailoring of DO-326A/ED-202A for general aviation (Part 23),rotorcraft (Parts 27 and 29), engines (Part 33) and propellers (Part 35). AFuzion’s participation in various committees and client work indicates DO-326/ED-202 will increasingly be applied to these other aircraft including military beginning in 2022 or thereafter. DO-326A focuses upon type certification during the first three phases of an aircraft (including avionics) type: 1) Initiation, 2) Development or Acquisition, and 3) Implementation.  We will be introducing and explaining all these concepts in Munich at Aerospace Tech Week on March 12, 2019.”

Adds AFuzion’s Chief Technical Officer and Founder Vance Hilderman: “Avionics and aircraft manufacturers need to address both developmental and operational aspects of their aircraft/systems. This ecosystem of secure safety within aviation development and operation focuses upon prevention of malware entering the avionics systems while they are being developed or data-loaded, and also during flight operations where such malware (or external hacking) could alter intended aircraft operations and safety. We will be showcasing various technologies which enable aviation developers to comply with these new standards. More details of our DO-326A / ED-202A training class can be found at AFuzion’s website here: https://afuzion.com/training/do-326a-ed-202a-training-aviation-cyber-security/

As their titles suggest, ED-201 serves as the top-level “WHY” guide for the entire information security process. DO-326A/ED-202A define the “WHAT”, including risk assessment for ARP4761A; DO-356A/ED-203A comprise the “HOW” – more or less the “security-companions” of DO-178C/ED-12C et al; DO-355/ED-204 are the “WHAT THEN” – feeding to ARP5150; and the new ED-205 is for the ground (CNS/ATM, e.g. companions to DO-278A), more or less the “security-companions” of DO-278A/ED-109A, et al. Where the base aviation guidelines (DO-178C, DO-254, DO-278A, ARP4754A,…) suggest safe and verifiable engineering processes, the aforementioned security-related documents provide guidance and rules which augment those engineering processes for security intrusions and extend through aircraft operations.

For hands-on insight into the important new emerging requirements and needs for aviation cyber-security, come to Aerospace Tech Week in Munich Germany on March 12-13, 2019.

Kaman Measuring Announces KD-5100 Differential Measurement System

The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products announced the availability of its KD-5100 differential measurement system, which provides resolution to a nanometer of positional change. With its stable design, extremely small size, and low power consumption, Kaman says the KD-5100 is ideal for night vision systems, precision telescope positioning, fast steering mirrors (FSM) for space-based and airborne applications, and image stabilization systems. Kaman says their engineers work closely with customers to understand their specific application and optimize the KD-5100 to meet custom requirements.
Featuring a small package size – only 2 x 2.12 x 0.75 inches thick – the KD-5100 is a good choice for applications where space is a limiting factor. It is manufactured to MIL-H-38534, with MIL-SPEC components used throughout the electronics module wherever possible. The KD-5100 features rugged construction, with a mean time between failures of better than 238,000 hours in a space flight environment and 55,000 hours in a tactical environment. Kaman also offers the DIT-5200, a commercial version of the KD-5100 for applications where mil-spec requirements, size, weight and power consumption are not critical.
The company touts that the KD-5100 team has a combined total of more than 100 years of application, design and engineering experience.
Kaman offers high-precision, electro-mechanical contract manufacturing at its 215,000 square foot facility, which has 150,000 square feet of manufacturing area and 220 employees. The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products follows rigorous aerospace quality systems. The manufacturing facility is certified to AS9100 and ISO 9001 and features a class 100 clean room.

Boeing Successfully Tests Autonomous Pax Vehicle

Boeing successfully completed the first test flight of its autonomous passenger air vehicle (PAV) prototype in Manassas, Virginia. Boeing NeXt, which leads the company’s urban air mobility efforts, utilized Boeing subsidiary Aurora Flight Sciences to design and develop the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and will continue testing to advance the safety and reliability of on-demand autonomous air transportation.

The PAV prototype completed a controlled takeoff, hover and landing during the flight, which tested the vehicle’s autonomous functions and ground control systems. Future flights will test forward, wing-borne flight, as well as the transition phase between vertical and forward-flight modes. This transition phase is typically the most significant engineering challenge for any high-speed VTOL aircraft.

“In one year, we have progressed from a conceptual design to a flying prototype,” said Boeing chief technology officer Greg Hyslop. “Boeing’s expertise and innovation have been critical in developing aviation as the world’s safest and most efficient form of transportation, and we will continue to lead with a safe, innovative and responsible approach to new mobility solutions.”

Powered by an electric propulsion system, the PAV prototype is designed for fully autonomous flight from takeoff to landing, with a range of up to 50 miles (80.47 kilometers). Measuring 30 feet (9.14 meters) long and 28 feet (8.53 meters) wide, its advanced airframe integrates the propulsion and wing systems to achieve efficient hover and forward flight.

“This is what revolution looks like, and it’s because of autonomy,” said John Langford, president and chief executive officer of Aurora Flight Sciences. “Certifiable autonomy is going to make quiet, clean and safe urban air mobility possible.”

The test flight represents the latest milestone for Boeing NeXt. The division works with regulatory agencies and industry partners to lead the responsible introduction of a new mobility ecosystem and ensure a future where autonomous and piloted air vehicles safely coexist. In addition to the PAV, the Boeing NeXt portfolio includes an unmanned fully electric cargo air vehicle (CAV) designed to transport up to 500 pounds (226.80 kilograms) and other urban, regional and global mobility platforms. The CAV completed its first indoor flight last year and will transition to outdoor flight testing in 2019.

“Boeing was there when the aviation industry was born and in our second century, we will unlock the potential of the urban air mobility market,” said Steve Nordlund, vice president and general manager of Boeing NeXt. “From building air vehicles to airspace integration, we will usher in a future of safe, low-stress mobility in cities and regions around the world.”

Successful Flight Tests with HENSOLDT’s Collision Warning Radar for UAVs

The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT has successfully concluded flight tests with its collision avoidance radar system for UAVs. This sensor is intended to improve safety in both military and civilian air traffic.

HENSOLDT has developed a demonstrator of a so-called detect-and-avoid radar system, which uses the latest radar technology to detect objects in the flight path of a UAV and to give early warning of any threat of collision following precise evaluation of the flight direction. At the same time, the sensor also assumes all the functions of a weather radar system.

In the flight tests, which were carried out on behalf of the German procurement authority BAAINBw and in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Brunswick, the radar demonstrated its capabilities in a real setting, thus confirming the results previously achieved in ground tests. In test flights lasting several hours, the radar installed in a Dornier Do 228 belonging to the DLR reliably detected the test aircraft approaching at different altitudes and angles.

The detect-and-avoid radar system uses state-of-the-art AESA technology (Active Electronically Scanned Array), which allows several detection tasks to be carried out at the same time and enables objects to be detected extremely fast. It replaces the pilot’s visual assessment of the situation. Thanks to its excellent detection capabilities, the multifunction radar is equally suitable for both military and civilian UAVs, e.g. for the delivery of cargo. A second series of flight tests is planned for the coming year.

HENSOLDT is one of the world’s leading radar manufacturers and operates one of Europe’s largest cleanroom production facilities at its Ulm site in order to produce the radio-frequency components required for AESA equipment. The company’s radar systems and radar components are used on board aircraft, satellites, ships and in ground stations. The platforms equipped with HENSOLDT’s devices include the Eurofighter combat aircraft, the TanDEM-X satellites, the US Navy’s littoral combat ships and the German Navy’s frigates. Furthermore, HENSOLDT supplies air traffic control (ATC) authorities and armed forces all over the world with ATC radar systems and transponders.

Claude Alber to Head Collins Aerospace in Europe

Claude Alber has been named vice president of Collins Aerospace in Europe. Alber will create Collins Aerospace’s enterprise strategy for Europe which the company says is to deliver new growth and provide innovative solutions to customers.

He was previously vice president and managing director, Europe, Middle East and Africa for Rockwell Collins.

“Alber’s ability to effectively drive change, transform organizations and develop business has been proven repeatedly in his various roles,” said Henry Brooks, president Customer & Account Management for Collins Aerospace. “His extensive experience across aerospace and defense businesses will be a key asset to develop Collins Aerospace in Europe, utilizing and bringing together the breadth of capabilities across the enterprise.”

Alber has been senior director for Commercial Systems, leading Rockwell Collins programs for Airbus and other international aircraft manufacturers,  and prior to that,  director, Integrated Systems, European programs for Government Systems. In those roles, Alber significantly contributed to the growth of Rockwell Collins business in Europe.

Before joining Rockwell Collins, Alber held several systems engineer and management positions at Safran, Airbus and ASECNA (Agence pour la Sécurité de la Navigation Aérienne en Afrique).

Alber holds a Master of Science degree from Sup Aero in Toulouse, France.