Ideal Aerosmith has teamed with a key customer to provide single-bay 39U rack rigs as part of an automated hardware-in-the-loop test setup. This hardware is required to simulate target jet engines for Full Authority Digital Engine Controller (FADEC) qualification and production testing. Successful jet engine development depends as much on the quality of the electronic engine control system as it does on engine design. Hardware-in-the-loop testing puts an engine control system through test scenarios identical to those carried out in engine test stand testing, with substantially lower cost, reduced risk, and less burden on human and mechanical resources.
To date, Ideal Aerosmith, capitalizing on their electronics and mechanical engineering, has successfully delivered 7 engine simulators that have been commissioned for service. The project, with full delivery of the 7 systems initially scheduled over a 7 month period was accomplished in a record 6 months. An identical twin engine setup comprised of 2 simulators is currently in production for delivery by the end of 2011.
By working closely with the customer, Ideal Aerosmith has been able to overcome key challenges related to concurrent engine, FADEC and test stand developments. This has resulted in a well executed project and a very satisfied customer.