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Autopilot Models
The
autopilot module covers the operation of three autopilots, the Bendix/King
KAP-140 / KFC-225 and the S-TEC 55/X. A special section covers the operation of
the S-TEC ST-360 Altitude Selector/Alerter.
Although, the theory,
function, operation and procedures also encompass the Bendix/King
KFC-150/200/250 as well as the entire line of S-TEC General Aviation autopilots.
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The ElectronicFlight Autopilot Module addresses a total void
in autopilot education and details the general theory of both position and
rate based autopilot systems available for general aviation aircraft. The
training explains the methods employed by different autopilot manufacturers
for sensing, computing and driving the aircraft. Basic stability and feedback
systems are explained as well as the various systems driving the autopilot.
Navigation and trim system operation are explained in detail with the use of
moving graphics and concept demonstrations.
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ElectronicFlight
deploys computer generated animation and highly interactive exercises to
implant mental models (pictures) of autopilot capabilities into the working
knowledge of a pilot, thus providing the tools to formulate an integrated
operational strategy. All aspects of autopilot operation are covered in great
detail to allow the capabilities of an autopilot system to integrate into the
decision making process. After successfully navigating the entire Autopilot
Module, the operation, and familiarity, of an autopilot should become second
nature when it counts the most - under high-workload situations.
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The
following topics are included:
Differentiate between position and rate systems
Correlate the similarities between autopilots and human functioning
Diagram the autopilot control system
Describe the operation of the autotrim system
List the different modes and capabilities
Recount navigation tracking theory and limitations
Gain knowledge of navigation modes and their capabilities
Describe the function of accelerometers
List the inputs and outputs of a typical autopilot
Describe the operation of altitude alerters and preselectors
Describe the operation of a flight director
Recount procedures for front and back course approaches
Describe procedures for GPS approaches
Formulate strategies for autocoupled approaches
Incorporate autopilot response into decision strategies
Recognize and evaluate failures
Supply better squawk reports
And much more
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Autopilot
Main Menu
The main
menu is organized in the suggested completion order. A single button click
from every page displays the menu and allows access to any chapter.
Colored
lights next to the chapter title indicate the completion status of that
chapter. A single glance a the main menu graphically indicates the
completion of the entire training program. Gray light = the chapter has not
been visited
Yellow light = the chapter is not completed
Green light = the chapter has been completed
The progress of each user is tracked by a bookmark file created every time a
new user logs-in. |
S-TEC
Altitude Selector / Alerter
The
S-TEC ST-360 Altitude Selector/Alerter is one of the most misunderstood
options for the S-TEC autopilots. The ElectronicFlight Autopilot training
module contains a special section dedicated to the control theory and
operation of this very capable unit.
The following topics are thoroughly covered:
Display
and controls
Primary
and secondary modes
Start-up
test routine
Vertical
speed select
Altitude
alerting
Altitude
preselect
Baro
correction settings
Decision
height alert
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Throughout
the training, interactive quiz questions test your knowledge of the
subject and provide positive feedback when a question is missed. If the
question is missed twice, you’re taken back to review the relevant
material. Then asked the question again. This interactive quiz format
assures that the material is thoroughly absorbed before proceeding to the
next lesson.
At the
end of the training, a review section provides a series of questions
selected at random from a bank of questions. Upon completion, the correct
answers are given for all of the missed questions. The review can be taken
multiple times, each time with a new set of randomly chosen questions.
If the
review is passed with a score of 70% or higher, a certificate of
completion is available as proof of course completion. This certificate
can be submitted as credit in the FAA Wings or AMT recurrency programs.
The
progress of each user is tracked by a bookmark file created every time a
new user logs-in.
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All of
the autopilot controls and functions are covered. The training goes beyond
what each function does, and actually explains when and why to use it.
An
autopilot interfaces to many other avionics and aircraft systems. The
training program teaches the interface to the other components and how they
relate. Especially how the autopilot will react when an external component
fails.
VFR and
IFR procedures are covered in separate sections so a student can customize
the level of training desired. |
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Specific
Autopilot Procedures
The
training uses the specific autopilot bezel and controls to accurately
demonstrate each procedure or technique. The navigation instruments are also
shown as well as an illustration of the airplane in relation to navigation
fixes and the runway environment.
You will
push the same buttons and controls just as you would in the real airplane.
All of the instruments accurately move just as they would in the real
airplane
This
teaching technique correlates the autopilot and instrument displays with
what the aircraft is doing in relation to the airspace and navaids. |
