Search Results

This paper will discuss using Astronics “Smart Panel” illuminated control panels to control an electronic power distribution system. A discussion of wiring simplification, automatic control possibilities and real time load monitoring is presented. The challenges of retrofitting the system into older aircraft will be covered as well. The paper also explains Electronic Circuit Breaker technology, arc fault protection, panel lighting technologies, control bus options, displays, and human input technology (buttons and knobs).

Linear actuators can be controlled and monitored by an Electronic Power Distribution System with no additional sensors or wiring. Laboratory and field test results are provided showing how common faults can be detected and annunciated, and potential faults can be detected before becoming hazardous. Results of these tests are extrapolated to other types of motors, such as pumps and fans.

This paper presents design considerations in utilizing cable impedance calculations in the design of an aerospace electrical power system (EPS). Past wiring design guidelines featured a tabular set of data based on a single-point design reference. This results in a cable selection which adds unnecessary weight and under-utilized the wire’s performance ability when considering a vehicle’s design requirements. Present wiring design guidelines have lagged behind the growing movement to achieve an optimized wire selection. Understanding the shortfalls with past and present wiring design methods will improve future methods to comply with increasingly restrictive vehicle performance requirements. This paper will discuss two of the most important design requirements for future aerospace electrical power and distribution feeders, which are weight and thermal limits assigned to an EPS design.