Book Description

The objective of the Integrated Engine Instrument System (IEIS) study was to identify and define an IEIS for 1980-1985 naval aircraft. Such an advanced instrument system would perform three functions: indicate engine status to the flight crew, record operating data to assist in the maintenance function, and perform energy management calculations (range and endurance, optimum climb or descent, etc.). The recommended IEIS concept uses two cockpit display elements to transmit the data, a power analog indicator and a variable message panel. Crew member inputs to the system are from a cockpit keyboard. Sensing transducers located on each engine (about 130 per engine) monitor engine parameters indicative of the individual engine component status. The data out-puts are processed in a computer which outputs display signals when abnormal or out-of-tolerance conditions exist. Selected sensor data are recorded in a maintenance recorder. The recorded information is later transferred to ground based data processing equipment that analyzes the engine component condition. Recommendations are made as to the type and level of maintenance required. Using inputs from the engine sensors and additional available information, the computer can accurately and rapidly perform energy management calculations during all modes of flight operation. Several computational approaches were investigated based on modern optimization theory. (Author).