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COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE
OVERVIEW OF PROFESSIONAL GROUND STATION (PGS) REPLAY SOFTWARE
BY:
Penny & Giles Aerospace Ltd 1, Airfield Road Christchurch Dorset, UK BH23 3TH DOCUMENT No
PRESENTED BY:DATE:
22 April 2010
This proposal, which contains proprietary and confidential information, is supplied on condition that its contents are not copied or disclosed to any third party without written consent from Penny and Giles Master Document Ver 2.0
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................... 1 PRODUCT BENEFITS .......................................................................... 3

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Three Levels of Product Release ........................................................................... 3 3D Visualisation ............................................................................................. 3 Flexible configuration ....................................................................................... 4 Fleet Management Support ................................................................................ 4 Low cost of ownership ...................................................................................... 4 Recorder Support ........................................................................................... 4
PRODUCT OVERVIEW ........................................................................ 6

3.1 PURPOSE AND METHOD OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS ..................................................... 6 3.1.1 PURPOSE OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS ................................................................. 6 3.1.2 METHOD OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS ................................................................. 6 3.2 PURPOSE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF PGS ................................................................ 8 3.2.1 PURPOSE OF PGS ....................................................................................... 8 3.2.2 IMPLEMENTATION OF PGS ............................................................................ 9 3.3 AIRCRAFT AND FLEET AND FLIGHT MANAGEMENT ..................................................... 12 3.3.1 FLEET AND FLIGHT MANAGEMENT ..................................................................12 3.4 LOGICAL FRAME LAYOUT AND EVENT DETECTION PROGRAMS ....................................... 24 3.4.1 DATABASE AND PARAMETER EDITORS ..............................................................24 3.4.2 FLIGHT PROFILE AND EVENT EDITORS ...............................................................28 3.5 FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS AND EVENT REPORTS .......................................................... 31 3.5.1 FLIGHT DATA PARAMETER READ-OUT ...............................................................31 3.5.2 AUTOMATIC FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS ................................................................33 3.5.3 EVENT REPORT ........................................................................................35 3.5.4 ADVANCED ANALYSIS AND REPORT ..................................................................36 3.6 PERFORMANCE ............................................................................................ 38 3.6.1 FRAME FORMAT SPECIFICATION .....................................................................38 3.6.2 NUMBER OF FLIGHT DATA PARAMETERS AND EVENTS PER AIRCRAFT ............................39 3.6.3 NUMBER AND SIZE OF FLIGHT DATA FILES ..........................................................39 3.6.4 PROCESSING SPEED ...................................................................................39 3.6.5 PRINTERS & MONITORS...............................................................................39 3.6.6 EXPORT AND IMPORT OF FLIGHT DATA ..............................................................39 3.6.7 PGS SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT....................................................39 3.7 PGS VISUALISATION ....................................................................................... 40
Penny & Giles Aerospace Ltd .............................................................. 43

4.1 Company Background..................................................................................... 43 4.1.1 Air Data Products .....................................................................................44 4.1.2 Other Products ........................................................................................44
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Penny and Giles proposes the Professional Ground Station (PGS) software.
1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Penny and Giles has been designing and manufacturing Flight Recording products for the Aerospace Industry since 1955, and the company has a world-wide reputation for quality of design and performance. In support of these products we propose the use of the Professional Ground Station (PGS) Analysis (PGS-AS) software. PGS is a complete solution that encompasses all the necessary tools to afford the operator a clear interpretation of flight data and detected exceedances. PGS has been designed to meet actual customer requests to daily replay and analysis of in-flight recorded data for more efficient maintenance, flight operations and flight safety programs. PGS is a suite of turnkey and flexible flight data analysis software, specifically for Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) and Maintenance Applications flight data processing. It is a dedicated solution to deal with the following flight data issues: READOUT - Interfaces with most Flight Data Recorders (FDR), either Crash Protected or Quick Access Recorders (QAR). DECODING - Provides all relevant and necessary tools to select, set up and maintain multiple Logical Frame Layout (LFL). DISPLAY AND PLOTTING - Outstanding data viewing capabilities in a multi- sheet graphical workspace. ANALYSIS - Straightforward process providing relevant and accurate automatic event and abnormal parameter reading detection. PGS is Windows compatible, designed to give the user the full benefit of the Microsoft Windows environment. PGS is a complete and robust software package. It has been designed in such a way that the user benefits from the power of real 32 bit C++ application software combined with outstanding userfriendliness. Most of PGSs features have been implemented in full and close co-operation with those end-users deeply involved in flight data parameter analysis. These features therefore fully satisfy operator expectations, by means of powerful easy to use and intuitive solutions.
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Three major aircraft manufacturers (Agusta, Sikorsky and Eurocopter) have already selected PGS-VS for use with their flight recorders as the primary means of supporting data download and replay data analysis. The information presented herein provides an overview of the PGS Discovery (PGS-DS), PGS Vision (PGS-VS) and PGS Analysis (PGS-AS) software products.
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PRODUCT BENEFITS
Available in three releases supporting basic replay through to fully automated analysis
2.1 Three Levels of Product Release The PGS software suite comprises the following three software products: i. PGS Discovery PGS-DS is designed for download, replay and plot of flight data parameters and audio recordings. This is the entry level software package supplied for use with a dedicated aircraft and aircraft configuration. PGS Vision PGS-VS is designed for download, replay and plot of flight data parameters and audio recordings. This version supports an OEM or fleet operator who wishes to create and modify aircraft configurations, define flight data parameters and manage a fleet of aircraft. Vision may also be used as a tool for selective flight data analysis. PGS Analysis PGS-AS is an extension to the PGS Vision product. Analysis is designed for flight profile definition, event detection and automatic analysis of flight data. In addition, PGS AS manages all detected events into a powerful statistic database. See flowchart of the complete analysis process. 2.2 3D Visualisation The Flight Operation Quality Assurance (FOQA) department of an airline may also wish to use the use 3D visualisation environment PGS Visualisation - PGS-VIS is designed as a bolt on to PGS Vision (PGS-AS) and PGS Analysis (PGS-AS) to provide the user with a 3D visual representation of aircraft flights. Parameters created within PGS Vision (PGS-VS) can be linked to 3D models of aircraft. PGS Visualisation (PGS-VIS) also includes an instrument editor that allows the user to create a representative cockpit environment for information presentation. PGS Visualisation is supplied with 2 aircraft models, basic rotary and fixed forms, however additional Aircraft types can be modelled that include the ability to detail livery for multiple platform operators.
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Editors are included allowing the system to be tailored and upgraded to suit.
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2.3 Flexible configuration PGS Vision (PGS-VS) and PGS Analysis (PGS-AS) are fully configurable tools that provide the user with a parameter editor tool giving the capability to create or modify new parameters as and when aircraft systems are upgraded.
User configurability eliminates 'per aircraft system' support costs
PGS Analysis (PGS-AS) also includes flight phase definition and event definition editors to give the operator full flexibility to define their own operational profiles. 2.4 Fleet Management Support PGS Discovery (PGS-DS) is targeted at single aircraft operators with a fixed system. PGS Vision (PGS-VS) and PGS Analysis (PGS-AS) are suitable for either aircraft OEMs, Operators or Replay centres. An integrated fleet management tool provides airline, aircraft, and equipment level definition ensuring rapid access to equipment interfaces and downloaded information. PGS-VS encompasses all the necessary editors and tools to ease everyday analysis operations such as Logical Frame Layout, Fleet Management, pre-defined FDR and Quick Access Recorders download procedures. PGS-VS also comprise powerful audio decoding algorithms to convert CVR audio encoded data to standard Microsoft WAV files format and replay audio records synchronized along with the flight data. 2.5 Low cost of ownership Provisioning of the parameter, flight phase and event definition editors as part of the tool enable the operator to set up and maintain their own specific configuration. Additionally, with a low annual maintenance contract price, the end user benefits from having technical support available, along with a continuous software upgrade path as PGS continuously evolves, so long as the maintenance contract is in effect. 2.6 Recorder Support PGS suite supports a wide range of flight Data recording devices and media including SSFDRs, HHDLUs, QARs, OQARs, PQARs PCMCIAs...
Multiple recorder and data file support
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It can handle as many data and parameters as necessary without any loss in processing speed: Getting a complete event report from flight data readout or replaying a long range flight with 20 on screen parameters is just a matter of seconds. PGS can any level of detail (up to 1/256Th second). A wide number of file formats are also supported allowing data to be imported and analysed without the aircraft hardware. Information can also be exported in CSV, as well as many other different formats for use in other applications.
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3 3.1
PRODUCT OVERVIEW PURPOSE AND METHOD OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS
3.1.1 PURPOSE OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS SAFETY

The Flight Data Analysis function is provided by PGS Analysis Software
Safety is the main goal of Flight Operation Quality Assurance (FOQA) and Flight Data Monitoring (FDM). FOQA/FDM is concerned with detecting operational trends before they can lead to an incident or accident. The majority of incidents and accidents are crew related. Over 50% of such events happen in the approach and landing phases and most are the co-incidence of a number of recurring problems. As a closed loop monitoring system, dedicated to detecting operational trends, FOQA/FDM helps uncover hidden risks: Events and abnormal parameter readings, detected during the analysis process, are stored in files for statistical purposes and used as the basis for trend analysis. COST SAVING Monitoring abnormal parameter readings and events can lead to the introduction of preventative maintenance. As the system continuously monitors flight data parameters, it can easily detect defective equipment on board the aircraft. TRAINING Students can learn from experience gained when using the system and from the results gathered from FOQA/FDM 3.1.2 METHOD OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS ACQUISITION AND RECORDING REQUIREMENTS Flight data parameters are continuously acquired from various sensors placed within the aircraft as well as from some avionic busses. This data is multiplexed by the digital Flight Data Acquisition Unit (FDAU) to arrange it in the form of an ARINC 573/717 or ARINC 429 single data stream.
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This signal is acquired by the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and recorded onto a medium such as a magnetic tape in legacy systems, or into a solid state memory located in the Crash Protected Memory Module (CPMM). Such continuous recording of flight data parameters can be of help to investigators in the event of an accident. However, because the FDR is based on an up to 25 hours recording loop, Flight Data Analysis sometimes requires a dual recording system. A Quick Access Recorder (QAR) acquires the same flight data as the FDR but unlike the FDR, is not crash protected. However its main benefits are twofold: Unlike the FDR, data is stored in a removable media, the capacity of which can exceed 500 flying hours Exchanging the recording media for another takes just a matter of seconds.
Figure 1 FOQA, a closed loop monitoring system.

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FOQA/FDM USE OF FLIGHT DATA FOQA/FDM utilizes flight data to automatically detect trends by monitoring abnormal parameter readings. Flight Data recorded by the QAR can also be read and analysed by a ground station, which can thus detect, view and replay excessive parameter readings during operations. FOQA/FDM MUST BE USER CONFIGURABLE FOQA/FDM must be user configurable so that various levels of detection can be used and easily changed to suit the operational environment and the various types of aircraft in the fleet. FOQA/FDM KEEP FLIGHT DATA FOQA/FDM provides sufficient capabilities to retain flight data after it has been processed. 3.2 PURPOSE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF PGS
A Complete FOQA/FDM Solution
3.2.1 PURPOSE OF PGS PGS is a flexible turnkey management system for a complete FOQA/FDM solution. Its functions will meet and exceed all FOQA/FDM regulatory requirements. PGS has been designed in close co-operation with airline operators and engineers. PGS is continuously being developed to ensure that it maintains an increasingly demanding of end-user requirements to a high level of satisfaction.
Quick And Easy To Use
Although PGS is a powerful system offering outstanding options, it remains quick and easy to use. It has been designed to offer each operator a fully automated process. Its various functions have been defined in close co-operation with airlines, thus maintaining a high level of understanding and ease. PGS comes with all necessary editors and functions, which allow operators the opportunity of setting up their own parameters and analysis programs - Logical Frame Layout, Event Detection programs and so on. Access security codes allow the operator complete secured access to sensitive data. PGS Analysis (PGS-AS) can produce comprehensive analysis reports. Additional details, plots and printouts are also available through an advanced investigation function.
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Customizable to User Requirements
Secure Access
Comprehensive Reports
Advanced Investigation
Powerful system tools afford the operator in-depth investigation and analysis, above and beyond that available in current reports. Events and abnormal parameter readings, detected during the analysis process, can be retained for statistical purposes. These statistical processes and viewing serve to underline operational trends. 3.2.2 IMPLEMENTATION OF PGS PGS is true 32-bit application software running on PC computers operating Microsoft Windows XP. It provides the operator with a configurable workspace. Moreover, the PGS toolbar set is fully customizable and can be easily adapted to individual user requirements. PGS can provide a readout of most commonly used FDR/QAR, for which the configuring of the parameters has been coded, making the process automated. A common user interface is used, so that the operator is not overly concerned with the various technical options, provided by the equipment. PGS-DS comes with a predefined parameter database. PGS-VS and PGS-AS come with straightforward database editor, which allows the user to configure data and analysis settings to their own needs. These editors include: Fleet management configuration (PGS-VS and PGS-AS) Flight parameter editor to set up Logical Frame Layout (LFL) (PGS-VS and PGS-AS) Flight profile editor (PGS-AS only) Event Editor (PGS-AS only) Analysis Program Editor (PGS-AS only) Note: Ready made databases are available or can be built as part of bespoke programming service available from Penny & Giles.
Statistical Profiling
Real 32-Bit Windows application
Interface To Most FDR And QAR
User Defined Analysis Parameters
Modular and Customizable
PGS has been designed to be a configurable system that operators can easily adapt to their own requirements. PGS-VS and PGS-AS afford the user the flexibility to add new aircraft, events and abnormal parameter readings quickly and easily.
Automated Procedures
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In addition to its modular and customizable background, PGS-AS allows the operator complete configuration of events to be detected, levels to be used and limits to be checked. PGS offers the operator automated procedures to ease and accelerate flight data analysis. Minimum effort is required to download and analyse a complete data cartridge of flights.
Automatic Report Generator
After the flight data has been downloaded and analysed, according to the operator event detection settings, PGS automatically generates a comprehensive on-screen or printed report of detected events PGS comes with a complete set of tools to assist the operator when advanced investigation is required: High Resolution display (up to 1600 x 1200 dpi according to hardware capabilities), Parameter plots are managed in a multi-sheet viewing workspace, Each sheet can display up to 20 flight data parameters traced on the screen, Magnify capability up to the second (1/64 of second) Get instant value of each parameter, Tabular data linked with curves, Resizable and sliding parameter scales and plots, Markers can be used to indicate a specific time slot along all traces, In addition, PGS can interface with most popular software programs such as Microsoft Excel. Specific and bespoke interfaces can also be carried out.
Powerful Graphic Tools
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Abnormal parameter readings highlighted with associated severity colour Engineering Units for parameter traces
Tags: Instant Values
Resizable & Sliding scales Multi Graphic tabbed workspaces
Figure 2 A PGS- AS multi sheet graphical workspace
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PGS-VS and PGS-AS provide fleet management support. PGS-DS is dedicated to a single aircraft and configuration.
3.3 AIRCRAFT AND FLEET AND FLIGHT MANAGEMENT The fleet management function available in PGS-VS and PGS-AS allows the user to easily access the specification and flight files of each of the aircraft handled by the system. This high level interface increases the user-friendliness of every day operations. This function encompasses the following modules: Fleet Management A/C details setting module with a ready made equipment database Flight Management The fleet and flight management modules are the two main elements that allow the user to operate and complete all the processes covered by flight data analysis operations. 3.3.1 FLEET AND FLIGHT MANAGEMENT 3.3.1.1 FLEET MANAGEMENT
Aircraft organised by Type, Tail No and Serial No.
Individual tabs per customer
Figure 3a Fleet Management
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One of the primary benefits of PGS-VS and PGS-AS is to provide a comprehensive view of all aircraft within a given fleet. This fleet management interface has been designed so as to allow the user easy aircraft management information. A user-friendly fleet and flight management interface and configuration supports all of these features that provide the user with a comprehensive data handling facility. The main features of this interface are as follows: The interface can support the management of several airlines simultaneously Only the most distinctive characteristics of each aircraft are displayed. As the aircraft is selected, the user gains instant access to all data available on that aircraft: The flight files of the aircraft, which can be instantly plotted The Flight Data Recording (FDR) equipment installed on board the aircraft The flight data parameters recorded The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) download interface 3.3.1.2 AIRCRAFT DETAIL EDITOR Aircraft details may be set up so that the flight data read-out processes can be automatically operated. The editor, shown in Figure 4, is used to set up the configuration of the Flight Data Recording (FDR) equipment, with which each aircraft of the fleet is fitted. Using these settings, PGS then enables the operator to instantly launch read-out procedures without having to type in any additional information: The Detail Editor comes with a database of equipment supported. However, PGS will not read-out from equipment other than those listed in the original database without additional configuration of the database.
Support for different aircraft types, details of each are maintained for DAU, Recorder, data frame layout, parameter types, flight phases and events
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Figure 4 Aircraft (A/C) Detail Editor
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3.3.1.3 FLIGHT MANAGEMENT AND FLIGHT DATA REPLAY TOOLS 3.3.1.3.1 FLIGHT MANAGEMENT. In addition to the fleet management screen, PGS allows the user to display all flight files for each aircraft. As soon as a flight is selected, the Plot option allows the operator to instantly select flight data parameters for display or use predefined groups of flight data parameters.
Each download is termed a 'flight'. To view, highlight and click 'Plot'
Figure 5 Flight Management 3.3.1.3.2 FLIGHT DATA REPLAY TOOLS Each PGS product comes with a powerful parameter graphic presentation and replay interface that allows the user to examine the actual values of parameters in depth. The operator is thus given all relevant tools to understand events and any abnormal parameter readings detected.
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A complete set of tools provides the operator with an accurate visualization of parameters. Data may be shown in accordance with sample settings and the list of parameters to be displayed can be reconfigured by the user. Main capabilities are as follows: Fully customizable Multi-sheet workspace Together with an enhanced fully customizable docking bar system, the workspace is based on a multi-graphic sheet viewing of flight data parameters. The operator may determine which parameters are to be plotted in each sheet and each sheet may display up to 20 parameters. Screen resolution adaptability Whichever screen resolution is operated (800x600, 1024x768, 1600x1200 dpi or higher), PGS automatically adapts to it without any resultant loss in quality. Outstanding magnification capabilities All displayed data may be instantly magnified up to the sample recorded. Resizable and sliding parameter scales and plots The user may resize and change scales at will, and associated plots are redrawn accordingly. Useful flags that display instant value for each parameter When operated, this tool instantly displays the value of the parameter when the cursor is moved. In addition, the user marker tool allows the user to identify one or more time slots within the flight. Tabular data may be displayed along with graphs Curves may be displayed along with an interactive sheet of tabular data. Setting a position on a curve highlights the corresponding value on the sheet and vice versa. The sheet may encompass more flight data parameters than the ones actually plotted. Such a capability is also available along with the PGS-AS event report facility, when required. Set of tools to move quickly from one flight to another The user may switch forward and backward on the flight list of the aircraft at a click.
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Values of discrete parameters are displayed in ASCII format Displays meaningful text for discrete parameters e.g.: Disengaged or Engaged instead of 0 and 1 See next page. Customizable time scale Time scale may be displayed using different modes.
Indexes through flights User markers
Instantaneous Engineering units Resizable & sliding scales
Figure 6 Flight Viewing Tools
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Automatic flight phase detection
Click on an event and the associated position is flagged in the graphical window
Comprehensive detailed report with distinct colours for each severity class
Figure 7 Advanced Flight Analysis Management
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Plots zoom in and out of parameter data, ranging from the entire flight to a single parameter point
Multiple views, plots, lists and analysis.
Figure 8 Combining Tabular Data with Curves
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3.3.1.3.3 REAL TIME DATA MONITORING PGS supports real time FDR data monitoring, for HOMP applications for instance. This is accomplished through the use of an interface such as the D51651 Monitoring and Download Unit (MDU) which when connected to the ARINC 717 FDR Data Out pins of the FDR or to the FDAU output port; the data being supplied to the FDR can be simultaneously monitored in real time. Any parameter defined within the aircraft frame layout may be displayed in a number of formats from binary through to engineering units.
Figure 9 Real Time Data Monitor control/display panel
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3.3.1.3.4 AUDIO REPLAY TOOLS PGS can download, decompress and replay audio records from a number of recorders, and depending on the Solid State Cockpit Voice & combined Flight Data Recorder (SSCVFDR), Solid State Cockpit Recorder (SSCVR), or other recorder type from which the audio data is supplied, PGS can operate the relevant algorithms to decompress the audio and produce standard WAV files compliant to Microsoft Windows format. This means that such files may be replayed using any standard audio equipped PC and software. The PGS audio replay tool is able to handle up to 4 separate audio files at the same time and allows the operator the ability to define an audio level for each or to mute as required. The operator can also use the cursor to fast forward along the file. Just like the tracer tool or the Event Report facility, the audio tool may be used with the viewing of flight data parameter. In such instances case, PGS is able to replay the audio data along with the flight data parameters.
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Figure 10 Audio Replay Tool
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3.3.1.3.5 SETTINGS With a fully customizable toolbar, PGS allows users to set up the most convenient software configuration, using the window below:
Figure 11 Settings
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3.4
LOGICAL FRAME LAYOUT AND EVENT DETECTION PROGRAMS
3.4.1 DATABASE AND PARAMETER EDITORS PGS-DS supports a single predefined parameter database only. Parameter creation or editing is not possible. PGS-VS and PGS-AS both offer the ability to create, define and edit frame format and parameter definitions. 3.4.1.1 DATABASE EDITOR Flight data is recorded as a 12-bit word serial data stream, composed of frames and SubFrames, in which flight data parameters are encoded by the FDAU/DFDAU. PGS comprises all necessary and easy to operate editors that allow the operator to set up and maintain databases. The decoding algorithms use these databases to locate and convert the values of flight data parameters to engineering units. This Database Editor allows the user to set up the main specifications of the serial data bit stream and to create a database that applies to the aircraft: The main specifications of the database range are as follows: Number of Subframes per Frame : 4 Number of Words per Subframes : From 10 to 1024 Number of Words per Second Number of Bits par Word Synchronization Words : From 10 to 1024 : 12 : Teledyne Standard : Hamilton Standard : Custom / User Defined
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Figure 12 Database Editor
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3.4.1.2 PARAMETER EDITOR Each recorded flight data parameter has a definite location within the frame. It is then necessary to define this location so that the software extracts the relevant parameter from the frame and processes it to display engineering values, comprehensible to any operator. The Logical Frame Layout (LFL) is set up thanks to the following parameter editor: The use of this editor allows the operator to decode any type of flight data parameter: Analogue coded parameters Binary coded parameters BCD coded parameters and to select the relevant formula required to convert the decimal value of the parameter into significant engineering units: Linear Non linear Polynomial Discrete Matrix Co-ordinates Super-frame counter Character coded parameters Float IEEE coded parameters
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Figure 13 Parameter Editor Each formula coefficient is set up using a comprehensive window:
Figure 14 Example of Polynomial Formula parameter entry
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In addition, PGS allows the operator a complete customization of the parameter display mode: Decimal Hexadecimal ASCII Binary Finally, a graphic test function can display a simulation of the parameter based on the formula set up. It thus allows the user to easily check the relevancy of each setting: Octal HH:MM:SS DDMMSS
Figure 15 Parameter Graphic Simulation 3.4.2 FLIGHT PROFILE AND EVENT EDITORS The flight profile and event analysis functions are available in the PGS-AS only. 3.4.2.1 FLIGHT PROFILE EDITOR The analysis process requires flight phases to be automatically identified within each flight (Taxi Out, Take Off, Initial Climb, Cruise and so on). The type and the severity of abnormal parameter readings and events depend greatly upon the flight phase, in which they occurred.
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Figure 16 Flight Profile Editor PGS-AS is equipped with a complete flight phase editor (Figure 16 refers) that allows the operator to set up the values of parameters that determine the beginning and end of each flight phase: The operator may use a combination of several parameters to adjust the start of each flight phase. Figure 17 is an example of the subdivisions of a standard flight: 3.4.2.2 EVENT EDITOR The event editor is used to set up the conditions so that an abnormal parameter reading or an event can be readily detected and reported. Each event may be set up to be detected in one or more phases of the flight. The operator can then determine the severity level to apply, according to the phase. Conditions are set up for each event. The dialogue box below allows the user to build a combination of parameters. During the flight analysis, PGS-AS reports an excessive parameter reading every time this combination comes into play.
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Figure 17 Flight Profile Example
Figure 18 Event Editor
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Figure 19: Setting Conditions for an Event 3.5 FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS AND EVENT REPORTS Flight Data Parameter Read-out is performed by both PGS-VS (Vision) and PGS-AS (Analysis) releases. The flight data analysis and event reporting functions are only available with PGS-AS (Analysis). 3.5.1 FLIGHT DATA PARAMETER READ-OUT The flight data parameters that PGS can analyse are those processed by the on-board recorders. PGS gathers flight data from a wide variety of recording equipment, either crash or maintenance dedicated. PGS can interface to the following hardware equipment in order to readout flight data (. ARINC 573/717 MAGNETIC FLIGHT DATA RECORDERS ARINC 573/717 SOLID STATE FLIGHT DATA RECORDERS ARINC 573/717 MAINTENANCE RECORDERS USING MAGNETO-OPTICAL DISK ARINC 573/717 MAINTENANCE RECORDERS USING PCMCIA MEMORY CARD ARINC 429 MAINTENANCE RECORDERS Moreover, PGS can adapt to some specific file formats and may be upgraded on request. 3.5.1.1 FLIGHT DATA RECORDER READOUT To manage the recorder read-out, PGS displays a dialogue window, specific to the equipment to be downloaded. Each one of these windows displays the commands available to the operator. Figure 20 is a typical such box for the Penny and Giles Multi Purpose Flight Recorder (MPFR).
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The readout process takes into account the equipment details, set for the particular aircraft and will automatically complete all necessary tasks. 3.5.1.2 RECORDER READOUT Because they have been designed for easy and quick retrieval of data, QARs, OQARs, PQARs and SSQARs permit the easiest processing of flights since they usually contain a separate file for each flight, together with useful information such as start times and dates. The operator may then select some or all of the files he wishes to process.
Figure 20 Example of FDR Readout Dialog Window 3.5.2 AUTOMATIC FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS The PGS-AS Flight data analysis module detects abnormal parameter readings and events, according to those thresholds, previously established by the operator. This module reads out the whole content of the disk, identifies and analyses the data of each flight and produces a comprehensive on-screen report.
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When necessary, the operator can utilise the systems powerful tools to analyse each and every event detected and discard any false abnormal parameter readings, which the software may have detected. This module has been designed to simplify and ease the operators job. From the Fleet Management menu, the user selects the aircraft that the flight data information file comes from and then clicks the Analyse option:
Figure 21 Start Analysis Process As the process is in progress, a status window allows the operator to quickly check the analysis procedure:
Figure 22 Analysis Process in Progress Due to the powerful development tools used, the analysis process is completed very quickly; some examples of system performance are listed at the end of this document.
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Figure 23 is a summary of the process PGS runs when analysing a disk or a cartridge. When no sensible flight phases have been found in a file, PGS assumes that the file is not a flight (Ground run or recording on ground). In such cases the file is moved to a recycle bin located in the directory of the aircraft. The fleet management module allows the operator to move to this bin and view the file anyway.
Figure 23 Breakdown of PGS Analysis Process
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3.5.3 EVENT REPORT Once the analysis process is completed, a comprehensive report is built and displayed to the user. Optionally, the report may be printed automatically. However, by firstly viewing the report on screen the operator can investigate some events and discard those he may not consider as relevant ones.
A single report for all flights maintained for the aircraft
Comprehensive detailed report with distinct colours for each severity class
A single click opens the flight and tags the event
Figure 24 Detailed Event Report
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3.5.4 ADVANCED ANALYSIS AND REPORT The Advanced Analysis function may be operated at any time to examine how a detected event occurred.
Event marked with each severity class colour
Excessive parameter reading identified, plotted and viewed in the tracer and the report
Tracer can be used to list additional parameters
Figure 25 Advanced Analysis This analysis level permits the operator to display curves of involved flight parameters along with other parameters. More useful and relevant is the ability of the PGS system to display all closely related events on the same screen, each event being definitively identified. The whole set of PGS tools, such as zooming up to the sample, resizing and sliding scales is made available during such advanced analysis Some of the tools available, such as the Marker tool, allow the operator to set up defining marks at all points along the curves.
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The parameters involved in the event can be plotted in a specific sheet; alongside this the software can add as many sheets as groups of parameters are defined for this aircraft. Excessive parameter readings are identified, plotted and viewed in the tracer and in the Event Marked with its severity colour report
Figure 26 Example of an Analysis Severity report 3.6 PERFORMANCE
3.6.1 FRAME FORMAT SPECIFICATION Number of Subframes per Frame : 4 Number of Words per Subframes : From 10 to 1024 Number of Words per Second Number of Bits par Word Synchronization Words : From 10 to 1024 : 12 : Teledyne Standard : Hamilton Standard : Users defined
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3.6.2 NUMBER OF FLIGHT DATA PARAMETERS AND EVENTS PER AIRCRAFT The database file structure has been designed to handle up to 16,000 parameter definitions per aircraft including ARINC 573/717 and ARINC 429 standards. The database event structure has been designed to handle up to 5000 event definitions per aircraft 3.6.3 NUMBER AND SIZE OF FLIGHT DATA FILES Number of flight files allowed : Depends on disk capacity Size of a one hour file (128 words per second) : 900 Kbytes
3.6.4 PROCESSING SPEED Tests were processed as follows: Hardware Operating System Flight file length Time required Average Processing time : PC Pentium III 450 MHZ : Windows NT : 10 hours : 2 seconds : 0.3 Second per Flight Hour
3.6.5 PRINTERS & MONITORS PRINTERS : PGS works with any B&W or Colour printer hosted by the Windows operating system. MONITORS : PGS adapts any screen resolution of the user computer without any loss in quality: up to 1600 x 1200 dpi (or higher if available)
3.6.6 EXPORT AND IMPORT OF FLIGHT DATA PGS flight data files can be exported in the form of ASCII format files. Such files may be utilized using industry standard software (Microsoft Excel etc) 3.6.7 PGS SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT Source Code language : C++ Graphic User Interface : Microsoft Visual Studio & Proprietary Database System : Proprietary with Microsoft SQL 7 compatibility
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Compiler
: Microsoft Visual C++ 6.0
3.7 PGS VISUALISATION PGS Visualisation (PGS-VIS) is an optional bolt-on tool for PGS-VS (Vision) and PGS-AS (Analysis). PGS Visualisation (PGS-VIS) provides the user with the ability to present recorded flights in a 3D graphical format, combined with the parametric traces and audio file playback. The PGS Visualisation screens can be separated from the graphical traces allowing effective PC dual screen utilization. Views, arranged on windows tabs, may be combined or kept separate to maximize screen usage, Figure 27 shows a typical layout. Aircraft models are available for fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft that include basic instrument panels. An instrument editor is provided to enable the user to adapt, modify or create instrument panels.
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Figure 27 PGS Visualisation Screen Shot
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Figure 28 Multi Camera view
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Penny & Giles Aerospace Ltd
4.1 Company Background Penny and Giles Aerospace is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Curtiss-Wright Corporation forming part of the Motion Control group. Curtiss-Wright Corporation was formed in 1929 from the merger of Wright Aeronautical Corporation and Curtiss Aerospace and Motor Company and is headquartered in New Jersey, US. It is a diversified Global enterprise. In 1955 Penny and Giles Limited (one of the original companies that now form Penny & Giles) was founded, initially to provide flight test instrumentation. A product line of various transducers and recording equipment was developed and by 1957 the first magnetic Accident Data Recorder (ADR), was test flown on a Gloster Meteor at the Boscombe Down Research Establishment, England. Following the success of the early pioneering work in flight data recording, the company secured contracts with the UK Ministry of Defence to supply crash recorders for fighter aircraft. These early recorders typically recorded 24 parameters onto stainless steel wire for a duration of 4 hours.
The first commercially certified combined voice and data recorder
First crash protected flight recorder installed on a Gloster Meteor by Penny & Giles
The original wire recorder manufactured by Penny & Giles
Penny & Giles branched into commercial aviation when the UK Government announced that aircraft heavier than 25,000 lb were to be fitted with accident recorders. The overnight competition that subsequently appeared greatly accelerated the recorder development program and several systems using Mylar and stainless steel tape were produced. The company developed the first combined Cockpit Voice (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR). Being designed for military combat aircraft, the units had to be lightweight and small. Crash survivability requirements also exceeded the existing standards for commercial aircraft. Launched initially on the Harrier GR5 program, several other versions were created and exported to overseas air forces for a variety of aircraft. With the UK Civil Aviation Authority mandate for recorders on rotary-wing aircraft, a civil version of the CVFDR was produced.
Second generation Penny & Giles CVFDR employing solid-state media
Crash Protected Flight Data Recorders
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The development of the CVFDR continued, and the recording medium has now been changed to solid-state memory devices. The Solid State Combined Voice and Flight Data Recorder (SSCVFDR) was the first solid-state unit to be certified for use on commercial aircraft.
Computer Controlled Air Data Test Set
Ice and Snow detection System Comprising Sensor head and Electronics module
4.1.1 Air Data Products Penny & Giles Aerospace has manufactured air pressure sensors since 1955 and were responsible for developing the (patented) conductive plastic technology for the first generation of potentiometric air pressure sensors. Their first air data computer was produced in 1983 and since that date Penny & Giles Aerospace have become established as suppliers of primary and secondary air data computers, using potentiometric, vibrating cylinder and more recently solid-state silicon pressure sensors. To support the above ADCs, Penny & Giles Aerospace developed a range of Pitot Static Test Sets, ranging from hand-pumped leak testers to high accuracy units for calibration, featuring automatic electric pumps with full computer control of altitude, airspeed and rate of climb. As with the installed base of ADCs, these PitotStatic Test Sets are used world-wide by both civil and military operators:
PCMCIA Quick Access Recorder
UK MoD - Navy UK MoD - Air Force (Tornado) In particular they are used by UK MoD for the Tornado aircraft. 4.1.2 Other Products In addition to its background in air data, Penny and Giles provides a range of sensing, test and instrumentation products, including: Ice and snow detection systems Maintenance Data Recorders Position Sensors Potentiometers Linear & Rotary Variable Displacement Transducers (LVDTs) Rotary Variable Displacement Transducers (RVDTs)
Solid State Quick Access Recorder
Linear / Rotary Displacement Transducers
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THIS SHEET IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
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Penny & Giles Aerospace Ltd., 1 Airfield Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 3TH, United Kingdom Tel +44 (0)1202 481771 Fax +44 (0)1202 484846 http://www.website/www.pennyandgiles.com
Confidentiality of this document. This document contains confidential and/or privileged information belonging to Penny & Giles. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution and/or taking of any action based upon reliance on the contents of this transmission is strictly forbidden.
An agent of Curtiss-Wright Controls (UK) Ltd.

Registered Office: 1 Airfield Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 3TH. United Kingdom Registered in England No. 2336358 VAT Registration No. 504 5127 81

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COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE

OVERVIEW OF PROFESSIONAL GROUND STATION (PGS) REPLAY SOFTWARE

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................... 1 PRODUCT BENEFITS .......................................................................... 3

PRODUCT OVERVIEW ........................................................................ 6

Penny & Giles Aerospace Ltd .............................................................. 43

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Multiple recorder and data file support

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PRODUCT OVERVIEW PURPOSE AND METHOD OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS

3.1.1 PURPOSE OF FLIGHT DATA ANALYSIS SAFETY

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Figure 1 FOQA, a closed loop monitoring system.

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A Complete FOQA/FDM Solution

Quick And Easy To Use

Customizable to User Requirements

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Real 32-Bit Windows application

Interface To Most FDR And QAR

User Defined Analysis Parameters

Modular and Customizable

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Powerful Graphic Tools

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Tags: Instant Values

Resizable & Sliding scales Multi Graphic tabbed workspaces

Figure 2 A PGS- AS multi sheet graphical workspace

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Aircraft organised by Type, Tail No and Serial No.

Individual tabs per customer

Figure 3a Fleet Management

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Figure 4 Aircraft (A/C) Detail Editor

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Each download is termed a 'flight'. To view, highlight and click 'Plot'

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Indexes through flights User markers

Instantaneous Engineering units Resizable & sliding scales

Figure 6 Flight Viewing Tools

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Automatic flight phase detection

Figure 7 Advanced Flight Analysis Management

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Multiple views, plots, lists and analysis.

Figure 8 Combining Tabular Data with Curves

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Figure 9 Real Time Data Monitor control/display panel

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Figure 10 Audio Replay Tool

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