After proper flight planning and preparation, safe efficient operation of any aircraft requires two distinct tasks: (1) collecting and analyzing information about aircraft performance, navigation, traffic and weather; and (2) enroute decisions using that information. In small general aviation aircraft, the pilot must monitor a disjoint collection of analog gauges, mechanical switches, digital indicators, circuit breakers and paper charts, a requirement that limits the time available to make sound decisions in emergencies and discourages new-pilot training starts. AVROTEC proposes to create a break-through cockpit display employing an integrated computer-based monitoring system to perform task #1, to vastly improve the pilot's ability to conduct task #2 effectively. In Phase I, AVROTEC will define hardware and software requirements for pilot interface, display priorities, graphic presentation, and data sources. In Phase II, AVROTEC will: implement the design using state-of-the-art technology; incorporate enhancements including ATC datalink, traffic conflict information and graphical real-time weather information; and flight-test a prototype. AVROTEC will coordinate with NASA's AGATE Program on cockpit information display and closed-loop control of aircraft systems. Innovations in this system include: creating an advanced state-of-the-art integrated cockpit information system using proven off-the-shelf components; modular single-point display; and greatly improved performance and dependability at lower cost than existing equipment.A VROTEC'S approach to an integrated information system based on existing technology provides the greatest opportunity for near term commercial applications in small general aviation aircraft. A VROTEC has already developed and marketed a cockpit moving map display in response to demonstrated market demand for innovative information systems. The proposed integrated cockpit information display system will be designed to be readily certifiable in both the existing light aircraft fleet and new, innovative airframe designs. These factors, combined with an installed price below current, inferior equipment and a proven general aviation marketing approach will ensure the immediate commercial potential of the A VROTEC system.
