Honeywell is talking to other manufacturers using its Primus Epic integrated avionics after launching its synthetic vision system (SVS) on Gulfstream large-cabin business jets, which use the Epic-based Planeview cockpit.
Rockwell Collins is also talking to aircraft manufacturers using its rival Pro Line 21 integrated avionics, and could announce an SVS launch customer at the National Business Aviation Association show in October.
Gulfstream is to offer its synthetic aperture - primary flight display (SV-PFD) as an optional upgrade to operators of the PlaneView-equipped G350, G450, G500 and G550. Certification is set for mid-2007.
Honeywell's SVS uses its enhanced ground-proximity warning system (EGPWS) database to render a three-dimensional view of the terrain ahead. This is displayed on the PFD in place of the blue/brown artificial horizon, and is overlaid with the same symbology used in the head-up display.
Also overlaid on the terrain are low-intensity range rings to provide depth cues, an extended runway centreline to aid the approach, and any obstacles in the EGPWS database. The SVS uses the same colours as EGPWS to warn of encroaching terrain, says Ed Wheeler, Honeywell vice-president engineering and technology.
Honeywell has completed 600h of flight testing in its Cessna Citation V testbed, and will offer the system for forward fit and retrofit to any Epic-equipped aircraft from next year.
Gulfstream was involved with Collins in NASA's SVS trials in 2004, and flew its own version last year, demonstrating the system to US and European regulators, says Pres Henne, senior vice-president programmes, engineering and test. "We are now developing the final version to certify."
Source: Flight International
