FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM (F.C.S.) / AUTOPILOT
PILOTS CONTROLLER B, TYPE 3D 5612
LEADING PARTICULARS
| Stores Ref. No.: | 6TD/4550016 |
| Manufacturer: | Elliott |
| Connection: | HERE |
| Attachment: | HERE |
DESCRIPTION
This unit provides a means to control functions of the Flight Control System, or 'Autopilot'.
MAGNETIC INDICATORS
The port magnetic indicator displays the main mode of operation as set by the control column engage switch, displaying: FD-OFF-AP relating to Flight Director, Off, or Autopilot modes of the Flight Control System.
The starboard magnetic indicator displays: ON-OFF to indicate power switch selection, and that the power supplies are healthy.
MODE SWITCHES
These switches set the mode of operation. They are mechanically linked to cancel the presently selected mode when a new mode is selected. They are also interlocked by an internal solenoid to only allow changing mode while the engage switch on the control column is set to OFF.
Each mechanical switch operates a microswitch to the rear the unit, these microswitches are wired directly to the connectors.
LITTLE STICK
In certain modes, the little stick can be used to input small adjustments to the FCS to control the flight in bank angle and pitch.
The bank angle markings have different meanings regarding angle input to the system depending on the mode selected. It also has a spring return to centre unless in certain modes where it can be latched at stop positions coincidental with the markings.
SOLENOIDS
The unit contains two 'Ledex' branded rotary solenoids.
As mentioned above, one solenoid interlocks the ability to change the mode switches, the second solenoid gives the little stick physical stops to latch it at the bank angle markings under certain modes.
Both solenoids have a considerable inductance. So much so that during initial testing, I received a small electric shock from back-EMF when removing the 28 V power.
SIMULATION
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REFERENCES
T Mk.5 electrical "Vol 1":
HERE - Paragraph HERE
T Mk. 5 wiring diagrams:
HERE - HERE