Sextant Avionique Wants Its Talents Known As Systems Integrator and Leader in LCDs

Sextant Avionique wants to be known not just as an avionics company, but as an expert in systems integration and liquid crystal displays. Not surprisingly, that goal is the focus of its exhibit here at the National Business Aviation Association convention.

"We will have two main thrusts at NBAA this year", said Jean Louis Lamor, vice president for Strategy and Business Development at Sextant Avionique. "Our biggest effort will be to continue promoting our role as a systems integrator. We are currently integrating modular suites such as the one in the de Havilland Dash 8Q-400. The other major thrust is in liquid crystal display (LCD) development."

As a systems integrator, Sextant Avionique is responsible for all avionics on the Dash 8Q-400. The suite features large main flight deck displays using color LCDs developed and manufactured by Sextant. The Integrated Modular System (IMS) 100 spans all key functions from flight management and control to centralized maintenance management.

The IMS 100 also has an open architecture that permits easy expansion and upgrade by adding new functions as requirements evolve. Sextant also has primary modules integrating a number of functions including data concentration, display, autopilot, integrated maintenance and alarms. Other components are radio communications and navigation assemblies. Sextant's IMS 100 avionics suite has performed without problems during Q400 tests, according to Lamor.

Sextant is also prime contractor for the flight control systems and head up display on Bombardier's Global Express. Sextant designed, produced and integrated the flight control system along with partners, Parker Aerospace and Sundstrand Aerospace, which respectively supplied the actuators and flap/slat subsystems.

In June on yet another program for Bombardier, Sextant delivered it's integrated standby instruments (ISI) for installation on the CRJ700. The ISI is an active matrix LCD in a three-ATI format. It integrates three standby functions in a single unit saving space and weight. The ISI has a higher MTBF that Sextant claims is three to four times higher than current equipment used today. Also, compared to other standby instruments, cost of ownership with direct maintenance costs is claimed to be as much as 50 percent lower.

Sextant, as a risk-sharing partner on the CRJ700, also has its secondary flight control system (SFCS) and stall protection system (SPS) installed. The SFCS controls the spoilers as well as the horizontal stabilizer. The SPS is a completely automated system with dual channel computer, two angle of attack sensors, stick shaker and stick pusher. The system has aural and visual alarms for excessive angles of attack and like the ISI, is lighter and smaller than installed on the CRJ-100 and CRJ-200 series.

Discussing LCDs, Lamor said, "Whatever size LCD the customer wants, we can develop and produce it." Lamor noted Sextant is already producing LCDs in many sizes including 3 ATI, 4 ATI, 6x6 inch, 6x8 inch, 5x4 inch and 10x12 inch. Control of the LCDs is by touch screen or a remote control device. Both methods of control are active.

"We have concepts for even larger LCDs. These are studies but we think there will be a definite need for larger displays with multiple windows in the display", said Lamor.

Sextant will not be bringing any HUDs to Las Vegas but it will have a computer-based trainer to demonstrate the HUD and its capabilities.

Lamor expects growing use of HUDs in airliners and business aircraft "but they will have to prove themselves and they will have to pay their ticket to get on board the aircraft. They will have to significantly improve the operational capability of the airplane," he said. One way that will happen is when HUDs are coupled with enhanced vision devices.

"Technology for technology's sake does not sell. The cost benefit must be readily evident to the operators before they are going to include such equipment on the airplane," he said.

As for other HUD concepts, Lamor said he does not expect the new helmet mounted HUDs used on military aircraft to work their way into airliners or general aviation cockpits, but they may find their way into helicopters. He explained that due to the nature of civil helicopter operations, a helmet mounted HUD makes more sense than in fixed wing aircraft.

By John Wiley