Wed, Nov 25, 2009
Robinson 44 Is First, Other Models To Follow
Cobham's HeliSAS two-axis
helicopter stability and autopilot system has received its first
Supplemental Type Certification (STC) from the FAA for use in a
Robinson model R44 aircraft. Working with Hoh Aeronautics, Inc. of
Lomita, California, Cobham is in the process of achieving HeliSAS
certification for use on the Bell 206, Bell 407, Eurocopter AS350,
and U.S. Navy's Bell-made TH-57 helicopters.
HeliSAS is a two-axis attitude hold, attitude command, flight
control system. The system has two basic functions, a Stability
Augmentation System (SAS) to aid with aircraft stability and
autopilot outer loop control modes for altitude hold, heading
select and navigation sensor coupling. The SAS and Autopilot System
provide a significant reduction in pilot workload, from takeoff to
landing.
The HeliSAS system offers a number of advantages over
previously-certified helicopter autopilot systems in terms of its
ease-of-installation and competitive pricing. In addition,
HeliSAS' parallel design requires fewer components, significantly
reducing system weight. These factors combine to make HeliSAS
particularly well-suited for helicopters with hydraulic control
systems. It provides helicopter pilots with precise control
during all modes of flight, regardless of wind conditions or shifts
in weight. The system is designed to be engaged at all times: "on"
before takeoff and "off" after landing, resulting in a
significantly reduced pilot workload.
The "outer loop" or autopilot functions, once reserved for
higher priced and more complex stabilization systems, are included
in the HeliSAS system:
- Heading select and hold
- Altitude hold
- ILS localizer and glide slope capture and tracking, including
back course
- VOR capture and tracking
- GPS steering
- LVAV/VNAV approach capability
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