The Modular Flighttest Instrumentation / MFI 90 A Helicopter Measuring System

Abstract

For investigations in the field of stability and control or handling qualities of helicopters, a Flighttest Instrumentation System is presented which combines some aspects of modern engineering. The aim was to create a system which is easy to understand and easy to handle, furthermore, allows the integration of future techniques and works with a maximum of performance under the given conditions. The system is modular. Good flexibility is guaranteed by the use of microprocessors combined with transducers in the front end modules. To avoid active or passive interference with the systems of the helicopter, the transportation of digital data is done by means of optical waveguides. The technique of processor control and data transmission is designed for future requirements like rising numbers of signals or bitrates. An "intelligent" transducer is shown together with its communication with the main onboard computer. On the other hand an overview is given of the onboard recording systems like Floppy Disc and Winchester, which have the advantage of readable computer data storage. For a quicklook telemetry a computer standardized protocol is also used as a method of online monitoring of digital data in the ground station.