Flight Dept 2.qxp_Finance 24/11/2021 11:55 Page 1
FLIGHT DEPARTMENT MANAGEMENT
Fly-by-Wire & Smart Throttle: The Benefits to BizAv Fly-by-Wire technology replaces the conventional manual linkages that connect cockpit controls and flight control surfaces with electronic cables. Mario Pierobon explores the technology offered aboard today’s Dassault Falcon business jets…
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ccording to Dassault Aviation, there are some significant reasons for having Flyby-Wire (FBW) systems on business aircraft. Among them is the fact that they link flight control surfaces to control sidesticks on the flight deck by means of electrical signals, rather than mechanical connections. Electronic cables transmit the signals generated by the pilot’s sidestick to flight control computers. “These then interpret the best combination of control inputs, and send the signals to actuators that move the control surfaces,” highlights Vadim Feldzer, Falcon Global Communications for Dassault Aviation. “FBW saves weight and improves reliability – it makes handling more precise,” he continues. “It 82 Vol 25 Issue 12 2021 AVBUYER MAGAZINE
reduces pilot workload, and, most critically, provides flight envelope protections that ensure a safer, smoother flight.” As a business jet manufacturer, Dassault designs and builds its own FBW system. “Our latest aircraft have what we refer to as the Digital Flight Control System (DFCS), an advanced form of fly-by-wire system,” Feldzer explains. “It is the belief of Dassault’s engineers that maintaining full control of the design and production process is the best way to integrate fast-evolving FBW technology into the design of our aircraft.” Dassault seeks to provide the pilot with more precise flight controls, and easier hand-flying. For example, Dassault’s system trims control pressures automatically as speed changes. “By reducing pilot www.AVBUYER.com