Session 5 at SOAR by AVEMBSYS

             The 5^th session at SOAR was conducted on 11th Jan, 2011. The class started as usual with one of our friend rendering some basics on C language. We then moved on with the discussion of the developments in our projects.

             The main highlight of the session was Avionics or Aviation Electronics, defined as, all electronics and electromechanical systems and subsystems (hardware and software) installed or attached to an aircraft. To begin with we saw the principle requirements for all flights, they are, safety of flight, mission of the aircraft, life cycle cost and certification. Certification is a major factor in Avionics design and some of the certification body includes FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) in US and DCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) in India. We then saw Mc Donnell Douglas module of an Avionic System wherein we saw the Avionic placement on multipurpose aircraft. The various Avionics involved were IFF (Identify Friend or Foe), MLS (Microwave Landing System), ATC Transponder, TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System), Radio Altimeter, Live TV, VOR/LOC, Weather RADAR, Glide Slope, Marker Beacon, DME (Distance Measuring Equipment),FM Broadcast, ADF ( Automatic Direction finder), UHF SATCOM, C-Band SATCOM.

              We also discussed the navigation system wherein we learnt about absolute navigation system, dead reckoning system navigation system, mapping navigation system. The discussion also included the communication system, flight control system, engine control system FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine (or Electronics) Control), FMS and TCAS. Then we learnt about ELT (Emergency Location Transmitter), a critical part in an aircraft. They transmit distress signals of key frequencies 121.5, 238, 406 MHz during emergencies and when tuned to this frequency, the aircraft is assisted from ground for its rescue. Further we saw some regulatory and advisory agencies that include ICAQ, FAA, FCC, RTCA, ARINC, SAE, IEEE, JAA, EUROCAE, DGCA UK, DGCA France and DGCA India. We were also shown, in brief, some of the professional coding for various avionic systems in an airbus.

               At the mere end of the session, we discussed about EGPWS (Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System). This system provides caution and warning to the pilot about terrain around the aircraft so that pilot can take necessary action. There are seven modes of EGPWS: Excessive Descent Rate, Excessive Closure to terrain, Altitude loss after takes-off, Unsafe terrain clearance, Excessive glideslope deviation, advisory Callout/Back angle, Wind Shear Alerting. Also had a brief discussion on TCAS and saw some TCAS symbols that may appear on a TCAS system in various scenarios.

               We ended the session with a discussion on the latest development in IAF, the TEJAS. We were shown some glimpses of its 1^st successful voyage and discussed some of its capabilities. It is India’s maiden achievement in the field of aeronautics as it is India’s 1^st self-made Light Combat Aircraft.