Airbus Helicopters’ FlightLab demonstrator has successfully tested a fly-by-wire flight control system in preparation for a new human-machine interface (HMI) that will power CityAirbus NextGen, Airbus’ ADAVe (eVTOL) prototype. Pilot controls have been significantly simplified with the enhanced piloting assistance provided by the fly-by-wire system. This single stick replaces three controls alone.
Flightlab tests a new CDVE system for CityAirbus NextGen
Airbus Helicopters’ FlightLab demonstrator has successfully tested a fly-by-wire flight control system in preparation for a new human-machine interface (HMI) that will power CityAirbus NextGen, Airbus’ ADAVe (eVTOL) prototype. Pilot controls have been significantly simplified with the enhanced piloting assistance provided by the fly-by-wire system. For the first time in the helicopter industry, a single control stick replaces the three conventional pilot controls (cyclic, pedals, collective) and allows control of all axes of the aircraft. Thanks to this single stick, the pilot can perform all maneuvers: takeoff and landing, climb, descent, acceleration, deceleration, turn and approach.
Simple display and revised human-machine interface
The single stick takes up less space, provides better pilot visibility and is combined with a revised human-machine interface that uses simple displays, providing a selection of information specifically suited to ADAVe (eVTOL). “From the outset, we designed this system with all certification parameters in mind, as it will be a big step forward in validating the design of our urban air mobility ADAVe (eVTOL), CityAirbus NextGen. The benefit of a fly-by-wire flight control system is enormous, especially when it comes to reducing pilot workload and ultimately improving mission safety. It is also a excellent example of how our demonstrators are being used to mature the technological building blocks needed to prepare for the future of vertical flight,” says Tomasz Krysisnki, Head of Research and Innovation at Airbus Helicopters.
Towards Vertex, simplified navigation
Following the success of the flight test campaign, Airbus Helicopters is working to finalize the details of this new system before further testing is carried out as part of Vertex, a project carried out in partnership with Airbus UpNext which will enable go even further in autonomy by managing navigation and simplifying mission preparation.
