Collaborative Innovation: GA-ATS and AEE Unveil the Next-Gen Do228 NXT Engine Interface Unit (EIU)
General Atomics AeroTec Systems GmbH (GA-ATS) collaborates with AEE Aircraft Electronic Engineering GmbH (AEE) for the revitalization of the Engine Interface Unit (EIU) and the Central Warning System (CAWS) of the next generation Do228 NXT specialized mission aircraft. The aircraft producer and the avionics expert from Germany have now formalized the respective agreement.
The EIU is a vital interface element in the aircraft that connects the engines with the aircraft management system. It gathers and analyzes engine metrics, level indicators, and flap statuses, transmitting them to the cockpit displays. The CAWS guarantees that the cockpit receives alert messages reliably. Moreover, the Do228 utilizes a variety of smaller components from AEE such as thermal controllers, different relay boards, voltage monitors, current meters, and more.
A successful long-term collaboration progresses
AEE previously engineered the EIU for the Do 228 NG aircraft prior to its market debut in 2010. Since essential components are no longer accessible, the presently needed total redesign provided an opportunity to enhance the EIU’s functionalities with several fresh features and upgrades. For the EIU overhaul, the Do228 original equipment manufacturer (OEM) selected AEE based on its extensive experience in the development and fabrication of advanced electronic systems for the aviation domain with specialty in engine interface solutions.
“As a supplier for over 30 years for the Do228, we’re proud to sustain and amplify this successful collaboration, now with General Atomics AeroTec Systems as the new Type Certificate holder,” remarks Lukas Hamm-Riff, AEE Accountable Manager EASA Part 21G & Part 145. “Both devices are being fashioned in adherence to the Design Assurance Level (DAL) B. Production and maintenance will be conducted under our EASA Part 21G and Part 145 certifications, respectively.”
“With the initiation of production for the Do228 NXT, it is of utmost significance for us to partner with trustworthy local collaborators and ensure a stable supply chain to cater to our clients effectively,” expresses Erik Bollen, GA-ATS Managing Director. “We are delighted that, after decades of successful collaboration with AEE, we can continue to build on this partnership and jointly propel the restart of the Do228 forward.”
Technical Enhancements and Principal Improvements
The reengineering of the Engine Interface Unit introduces several key performance enhancements, simplifying the operation and management of the new Do228 NXT:
· Additional A429 Input – The improved EIU will include an extra A429 input to facilitate future integration with the new fuel system. It will also handle the pressure refuel logic once the new configuration is set up.
- Emulation of Speed Switches – The unit will mimic the function of speed switches utilized for automatic engine starting and ignition. This negates the need for separate speed switches in the aircraft, streamlining installation and maintenance.
- Analog Sensor Calibration – The EIU will now support calibration of analog sensors, diminishing the risk of errors and preventing signals from straying outside factory tolerance limits.
Cost-effective, backward-compatible, and future-ready EIU
The upgraded Engine Interface Unit offers numerous essential advantages to clients. One of the primary benefits is complete backward compatibility, ensuring that the new unit serves as a direct form-fit-function substitute without necessitating any modifications to existing wiring or configurations. The future-ready design guarantees that the enhanced EIU is entirely compatible with the forthcoming fuel system, establishing it as a sustainable solution for advancing aircraft technology.
Another significant advantage is cost reductions, as the elimination of speed switches leads to decreased component costs and lower overall maintenance expenses. Ultimately, the enhanced sensor adaptability allows for calibration of analog sensors, delivering greater flexibility when modifying or substituting these components. This results in heightened reliability and operational efficiency for aircraft operators.
Do228 NXT as a cutting-edge multirole platform
With this collaboration, General Atomics AeroTec Systems and AEE Aircraft Electronic Engineering reaffirm their commitment to innovation and ongoing enhancement in aviation technology, establishing the Do228 NXT as a cutting-edge multirole platform. The redesigned EIU will ensure greater efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for Do228 NXT aircraft operators globally. The aircraft is capable of conducting special mission flights and light transport operations and stands out with its versatile cabin layouts, STOL capability, and robust construction.
