CPI with Memory Module
503-16MM Series
Key Features
- Beacon automatically deploys from aircraft.
- Transmits the Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz distress message and GPS coordinates.
- Memory module storing a back-up of FDR/CVR data
- Certified Automatically Deployable Emergency Locator Transmitter (ADELT)
The Challenges
The ditching of an aircraft in the ocean creates two time sensitive scenarios. Firstly, and most importantly, the crew must be located and rescued. Secondly, the flight data must be recovered to determine the cause of the incident. The Crash Position Indicator with Memory Module (CPI-MM) addresses both scenarios.
On impact the beacon automatically activates and deploys from the aircraft. Floating on the ocean, it transmits the Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz distress message, including GPS coordinates to the SAR authorities to coordinate a rescue effort.
Prior to deployment the state-of-the-art recorder interface unit (RIU) takes a continuous feed of data from the on-board FDR/CVR and transfers directly to the Memory Module housed within the deployable beacon. In the event of a crash, the rescue teams can locate the buoyant beacon and recover the flight data back-up, even if the aircraft has sunk. This allows air crash investigators quicker access to the evidence they require to establish a cause and prevent future accidents.
The System
- 121.5MHz, (Optional 243MHz) & 406MHz
- GPS co-ordinates transmitted via 406MHz
- Class 1 ADELT
- FDR and CVR memory module
- Crash Proof
- Compressed spring for deployment
- CPI beacon attachment point
- Optional water activated switch
- System ‘Arm’ and ‘Off’ guarded switch
- Multi-Axis programmable G-Switch
- Back-up battery
- Inputs ARINC 429, ARINC 717 or ARINC 664
- Discreet Inputs
- Optional RIPS (Recorder Independent Power Supply)
- Beacon transmit guarded switch
- Beacon deploy guarded switch
- ‘Test’ and ‘Beacon Deployed’ LEDs
- Compatible with Night Vision Goggles (NVG)
- Activates when submerged in water
- Alerts the SIU to deploy the beacon
Flight Data Securely Stored
The Memory Module is housed within the ejected beacon and is capable of storing up to 25 hours of flight data held within a buoyant, water tight, flame proof case. This means that an exact copy of all information held by the FDR/CVR is securely contained within the memory module.
This Class 1 Cospas-Sarsat beacon also supports live GPS tracking post-deployment, to assist in rapid recovery, allowing crash investigators faster access to the information they require.
Activation
- Pilot activation via a cockpit control panel.
- The SIU detects considerable changes in pre-programmed parameters and deploys the CPI beacon.
- In the case of water ingress, the switch detects this and will deploy the CPI beacon.
- Impact of an external switch on the aircraft will deploy the CPI beacon.
- In the event of the tail boom breaking off from the aircraft, the BDC will detect a break in the circuit loop and automatically deploy the CPI beacon.
Transmitter Signal
Frequency:
121.5MHz/243MHz (optional)/406MHz
Peak Effective:
75mW at 121.5MHz
Radiated Power :
5.0W at 406MHz
Frequency Stability:
2 x 10-9 per min
Transmission Duration:
24Hrs min, 5W PERP at -40°C
48Hrs min, 75mW PERP at -40°C
Repetition Rate:
520ms (±1%) every 50 secs (±5%)
Memory Module
CVR audio storage:
min 2 hours
FDR data storage:
min 25 hours
5.0W at 406MHz
Optional RIPS (Recorder Independent Power Supply) to ensure that data continues to be recorded for up to 2 hours post aircraft power loss, providing vital further insight into the development of an incident.
Activation
Offering five methods of deployment:
- Manual – Pilot activation via a cockpit control panel.
- G Switch – The SIU detects considerable changes in pre-programmed parameters and deploys the CPI beacon.
- Water switch – In the case of water ingress, the switch detects this and will deploy the beacon. This is the final trigger for deployment.
- Frangible (Crush) Switch – Impact of an external switch on the aircraft will deploy the CPI Beacon.
- Hold Off Loop – In the event of the tail boom breaking off from the aircraft, the BDC will detect a break in the circuit loop and automatically deploy the CPI beacon.
Compliance
Cospas-Sarsat specification C/ST.001
EUROCAE ED-62/RTCA DO-204/RTCA DO-183
EUROCAE ED-14C/RTCA DO-160C
CAA Specification No16, Issue 2
Approvals
TSO C91a, JTSO-2C91a, TSO C126 and JTSO-2C126
CAA WR01029
Cospas/Sarsat Approval 244
TCCA
CPI Beacon
Part No.:
503-16-MM
Dimensions:
305mm x 92mm (12 ins x 3.62 ins)
Battery Storage Life:
5 years
Beacon Release Unit
Part No.:
503-21-MM
Dimensions:
140mm x 70mm x 67mm (5.5ins x 2.76ins x 2.64ins)
Recorder Interface Unit
Part No.:
503-57-A
Dimensions:
187mm x 165mm x 68.9mm (7.4ins x 6.5ins x 2.7ins)
Part No.:
503-57-A503-57-B
Dimensions:
187mm x 165mm x 100mm (7.4ins x 6.5ins x 3.9ins)
System Interface Unit
Part No.:
503-24 Series
503-42 Series
Dimensions:
217mm x 120mm x 82mm (8.5ins x 4.7ins x 3.2ins)
Water Activated Switch
Part No.:
503-23-2
Dimensions:
140mm x 59mm x 31mm (5.5ins x 2.6ins x 1.2ins)
Water Activated Switch
Part No.:
503-23-2
Dimensions:
140mm x 59mm x 31mm (5.5ins x 2.6ins x 1.2ins)
Beacon Deployment Control
Part No.:
503-41
Dimensions:
140mm x 55mm x 89mm (5.5ins x 2.17ins x 3.5ins)
Aircraft Ident Config. Unit
Part No.:
503-40
Dimensions:
150mm x 66mm x 40mm (5.9ins x 2.6ins x 1.57ins)
Want to know more about the CPI with memory module?
Discover how the CPI not only transmits its location, but also stores a back-up of the aircrafts FDR and CVR data. Allowing accident investigators access to flight data even if the aircraft has not been recovered.