We were grateful to have the CEO of Progressive Aerodyne, Mr. Adam Yang and the principals of RS Aerotech join us in the RFSC AirVenture classroom today. Together and with the help of some very large companies, they are going to be shaping the future of electronics aboard smaller aircraft.
What’s this all about, you ask … Well, today RS Aerotech announced that they have acquired a Progressive Aerodyne Searey LSX for testing platform for advanced technologies linked to the 912iS and 915iS Rotax aircraft engines. Sounds a little techy and interesting? Here are the details:
The Searey will be operated in Florida and the Bahamas with the following objectives:
o As a long-time flight test of Rotax 9 series iS aircraft engine in harsh environment (salt water, water spray, high humidity, high temperatures).
o Thanks to Rotax support of this project, the aircraft will be retrofitted with the 915iS as soon as it is available.
o Installation of the EMU 912iS/915iS Engine Management Unit and a Flight Data Acquisition and Recording System.
o Worldwide real-time data interface via cockpit-installed technology developed by RS Aerotech.
o A data server, operated and maintained by RS Aerotech, will allow unrestricted 24/7 access to flight data for post processing and engine health monitoring.
o Optimize the single lever constant speed propeller for Rotax engines with MT propeller by performing the corresponding flight tests.
o Promote the 912iS and 915iS engines by showing the advantages of these engines for seaplanes (which have to overcome more drag) and land airplanes.
o Generate a substantial amount of flight hours, to establish a long term engine data base and provide the basis to develop a toolset for trend analysis of engine data combined with flight state information.
Michael Stock said they choose the SeaRey LSX because it was a stable and safe platform to work on. The fact that the SeaRey can put down on both land and water (without any fuss) is just and added safety feature.
Mr. Yang was enthusiastic about his company’s involvement on this project. He mentioned that he is committed to building a long term relationship with Rotax. This is important and beneficial for Progressive Aerodyne. We have a very good product and this type of testing will only improve our aircraft in the future.
