Advanced Crash Survivable Flight Data Recorder And Accident Information Retrieval System (AIRS)

摘要

The AIRS development program consisted of four phases. Phase I: Detail Design Task: Design concepts were formulated based on selection and definition of aircraft parameters to be monitored by the AIRS, selection of memory technology, circuit definitions for aircraft interfacing, and studies and tests related to the development of an armored module to protect the memory device. Phase II: Component Fabrication and Test: Using the concepts and design formulated in Phase I, Hamilton Standard fabricated and laboratory tested brassboard electronics units and developed and tested software which proved the feasibility of data collection and storage in a solid-state memory device utilizing unique data compression techniques to reproduce critical aircraft flight information. Flight-worthiness assurance tests were performed on the AIRS brassboard. Phase III: Brassboard AIRS Unit Flight Test Demonstration: The hardware fabricated and tested in Phase II was installed in a Sikorsky UH-60A BLACK HAWK helicopter S/N 77-22714. Phase IV: Design Assessment: As a conclusion, the system was reviewed for final configuration, risk areas, final size and weight and life cost. Current estimates of a productionized AIRS electronics unit are weight, less than 9.3 pounds; volume, 207 cubic inches or less; and a mature reliability greater than 10,000 hours MTBF.