Make no mistake sensors will drive the next gen airline flt ops & passenger experience. We’ve only just started with #ConnectedAviation #IoT — flyTab XFB (@flyTab_XFB) June 14, 2016

from flyTab http://ift.tt/1X9fhgV
via IFTTT

In order for airline #IoT Initiatives to be measurably successful enterprise stakeholders MUST collaborate and cooperate according to a cross-functional plan purposed to achieve #ConnectedAviation

from flyTab http://ift.tt/1X9fhgV
via IFTTT

ASIG Announces Issuance of US Patent for Aircraft-COTS Tablet Integration

Avionics Systems & Integration Group

10 Collins Industrial Place, Suite 3-B
North Little Rock, AR 72113

Phone: (866) 890-2744 or (501) 771-9388
Fax: (800) 903-9607
Email:  sales@asigllc.com
Web: www.asigllc.com | www.flyTab.aero

ASIG Announces Issuance of US Patent for Aircraft-COTS Tablet Integration

  

Little Rock, AR | May 18, 2016 - Avionics & Systems Integration Group (ASIG), an aerospace systems integrator, manufacturer and FAA Repair Station focused on smart solutions that empower the 21^st century of flight, today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued US Patent 9,335,796 covering the method and apparatuses associated with the integration of commercial-of-the-shelf (COTS) tablet computers with aircraft avionics systems and sensor equipment.  This proprietary technology is applicable to the system attachment of COTS tablets and other personal electronic devices (PED’s), including but not limited to Apple iPad and Microsoft Surface devices, when deployed as a portable Electronic Flight Bag (EFB). 

ASIG has pioneered the use of tablet computers as EFB’s having developed the world’s first environmental qualification test plan for the Apple iPad in November 2010, and later that same year (December 2010) achieving the FAA’s first A061 OpSpec approval for the paperless flight operations using an iPad in lieu of paper charts, plates and manuals on behalf of their customer N-Jet to use an iPad as a paper replacement across their entire fleet.  In 2011 ASIG became Apple, Inc.’s. first MFi manufacturer of Apple MFi approved accessories for installed avionics equipment, after which the company began full-scale design and development effort of the flyTab XFB hardware; software and SaaS service offerings through their flyTab Consortium.  Following the 2013 announcement that the flyTab Aircraft Interface Module (AIM) has received RTCA/DO-178B Lvl. C design assurance and later TSO-C115c approval by the FAA, ASIG was awarded FAA AML-STC ST11156SC in January 2014 by the FAA’s Fort Worth Aircraft Certification Office’s Special Certification Directorate approving the full system integration of iPad’s with aircraft power and data interfaces on aircraft type certificated under Part 25, including turbo-props, regional jets and heavy transport aircraft operating in commercial service.  These milestones solidified ASIG’s leading position as the premier tablet integrator for aerospace and defense applications.  

The recently issued patent, citing a provisional application date of March 8, 2012, provides an aerospace grade data converter capable of receiving multiple digital inputs including, but not limited to, ARINC 429 and 717, MIL-STD-1553 as well as analogue discrete, pulse/ flux, serial and other data and electrical formats, concentrating them into a singular data stream and aggregating them to tablet computers either wirelessly or via a secure wired interface.  Further, the company’s new patent includes intellectual property protections for electromechanical aircraft tablet mounting and a palletized API software library known as a software developer’s kit (SDK).  The newly issued patent compliments the company’s existing patent portfolio of powering conditioning solutions for use with tablet computers and other PEDs that are deployed as EFB devices.  The patent names Richard Luke Ribich of Maumelle, AR as the inventor of record and notes that the patent has been assigned to ASIG, LLC.

“We are confident that ASIG’s extensive thought leadership and patent estate, combined with ASIG’s current exclusive right to the use of the flyTab technology portfolio, will provide our flyTab XFB product with long-term market opportunity as well as new areas of revenue through new product licensing and related patent enforcement actions.” Said Imtiaz Ahmed, CEO of ASIG.  “This patent represents an important component of ASIG’s formidable IP portfolio covering the integration of IoT enabling technologies in aircraft and other platform types.”

ASIG management believes that the application of IoT enabling technologies, and specifically tablet computer technologies, to aviation, aerospace and defense platforms will transform organization workflows, increase the value of data in enterprise analysis and resource allocation while providing the necessary level of data security and privacy pilot and operator collective bargaining agreements require.  ASIG has committed considerable resources to the development of IoT enabling technologies over the last 5 years in anticipation that technology will accelerate and that the use of COTS devices, enabling hardware and smart applications will experience strong growth for the foreseeable future.  The company further asserts that the use of COTS hardware and software will shorten adoption project spans while enabling best-in-class and custom app solutions development for airline/ fleet flight ops faster, reducing total risk and associated costs.

About the Avionics & Systems Integration Group
ASIG specializes in system integration and supplemental engineering, installation kit and component manufacturing and other system design and certification requirements in support of COM/NAV, IFE, Situational Awareness and Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM); maintenance, modification and AMOC/non-SRM repair compliance activities.  ASIG also performs design research and development of emerging technologies in support of aircraft and rotorcraft operations for civil, commercial, government and foreign flight departments.  Additionally, ASIG is the lead developer and technology owner for the flyTab™ Class 2 EFB solutions for use with Apple® iPad™.  Organizations interested in patent licensing, or for additional information regarding ASIG's operating activities, products, and services, visit them online at www.asigllc.com or subscribe to the company’s information and technical journal, “Wired – An Avionics & Integration Weblog” at http://asigllc.blogspot.com.  To obtain technical details and other information about the flyTab Class 2 iPad EFB visit ASIG’s product website at www.flyTab.aero. – END OF RELEASE

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For Immediate Release - SkyTender Solutions GmbH Selects ASIG for FAA & EASA Certification Services

Avionics & Systems Integration Group

10 Collins Industrial Place, Suite 3-B North Little Rock, AR  72113

Phone:  (866) 890-2744 or (501) 771-9388 Fax: (800) 903-9607

Email: sales@asigllc.com Web: www.asigllc.com

 

LITTLE ROCK, AR | May 11, 2015 - The Avionics & Systems Integration Group (ASIG), an independent global CNS/ATM and IFE integrator and the developer of the popular flyTab XFB solution for Apple iPad, announced today that it has been selected by SkyTender Solutions GmbH of Herborn, Germany to provide FAA and EASA STC certification services for the SkyTender Beverage Trolley, Model STR0100, on Boeing 737 aircraft.

The SkyTender Beverage Trolley is a revolutionary mobile inflight cart capable of serving more than 240 beverage combinations via a computerized post-mix drink dispenser. The SkyTender STR0100 allows airlines to save money per passenger through savings in weight, fuel and space, as well as protecting the environment by reducing post-consumer waste by greater that 70% compared to standard in-flight beverage services. Due to its innovative mobile operating system and recipe catalogue, SkyTender is easy to handle and enables cabin crew to provide a better and more convenient class of service with a wider selection of inflight beverage options. SkyTender is a completely independent and self-contained system, which requires no electrical or mechanical provision installations and can be used in place of any full-size Atlas meal cart; and, consumes no energy for coffee brewing and water boiling via its onboard system. 

 

About SkyTender Solutions GmbH

The SkyTender Group of companies (ST Technology, ST Systems & ST Finance) develop, manufacture, support and provide customized financing options and lease solutions for the SkyTender catering products. The SkyTender Group is focused on delivering environmentally responsible and cost effective enhanced cabin services for airlines and consumers. To learn more about the SkyTender Beverage Trolley, visit www.skytender.de.

About the Avionics & Systems Integration Group

ASIG specializes in system integration and supplemental engineering, installation kit and component manufacturing and type design and certifications in support of CNS/ATM and IFE modifications as well as AMOC/non-SRM repair compliance activities. Furthermore, ASIG is the lead developer and technology owner for flyTab XFB solutions for Apple iPad. ASIG holds multiple approvals including FAA Part 145 Repair Station Certificate, FAA-PMA in addition to numerous FAA and foreign CAA Supplemental Type Certificates, all managed under the surveillance of the  company’s ISO 9001 compliant quality control system. ASIG, the Avionics & Systems Integration Group, is not affiliated with Aircraft Services International Group or BBA Aviation.- END OF RELEASE

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For Immediate Release - GDC Technics Selects ASIG’s flyTab XFB for B737NG Modifications & Platform Advances

For Immediate Release Avionics & Systems Integration Group 10 Collins Industrial Place, Suite 3-B North Little Rock, AR  72113 Phone:  (866) 890-2744 or (501) 771-9388 Fax: (800) 903-9607 Email: sales@asigllc.com Web: www.asigllc.com | www.flyTab.aero LITTLE ROCK, AR | April 28, 2015 - The Avionics & Systems Integration Group (ASIG), a leading global integrator and provider of flyTab XFB solutions for Apple iPad supporting commercial, government and civil aviation applications, announced this week that it has been selected by GDC Technics, on behalf of an as of yet unnamed international fleet operator, to supply the company’s flyTab XFB system, for the Boeing 737NG airframe.  The flyTab XFB system represents the world’s only self-contained, fully integrated and completely customizable Class 2 EFB solution build upon the Apple iPad product line.  Installation and airworthiness approvals will be supported under ASIG’s existing AML-STC ST11156SC, which is suitable for almost any Part 25 aircraft and has been previously available in configurations for CRJ Series, DHC-8/Q400 Series and B767-200/300/300F/400ER Series aircraft.  The installation will consist of a full flyTab XFB suite including a single flyTab Aircraft Interface Module, dual flyTab Power Conditioning Modules and the unique flyTab 3-stage mounting system that provides continuous iPad device protection to MIL-STD-810G standard in an FAA-PMA’d light weight, man-portable crashworthy enclosed docking station.  The low-cost Class 2 EFB boasts a minimal system weight, including installation kitting, of less than 8 Lbs. due to the use of revolutionary advanced composite materials and includes complete support for operators choosing to pursue A061 paperless OpSpec approval endorsements from the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”). Recently, the FAA and Transport Canada have authorized ASIG to support existing configurations of the flyTab XFB installation with phased installation kits.  Phased adoption of the flyTab platform allows airlines and other fleet operators to take a more thoughtful and measured approach to incorporating EFB’s in their fleets through stand-alone installations of mount, power and/or data interfaces under the existing flyTab XFB Supplemental Type Certificate in lieu of full system installation. In other advancements, ASIG’s flyTab for iOS software team has recently completed architecture and design of the company’s FIS-B and TIS-B to MOPS standards for the flyTab SDK, a developer add-in for Apple’s revolutionary XCode developer tool that allows the automated implementation of the flyTab API and widget functions. The flyTab SDK’s FIS-B and TIS-B widgets allow for the automated integration of Flight Information System and Traffic Information System Broadcast messages The flyTab SDK is available for license to third-party developers with an interest in creating completely “aircraft aware” applications in support of operational leaning, or the enterprise integration of actual flight data on-condition, or in near real-time. “It has been a banner year for the flyTab XFB system and its innovative software solutions.  ASIG now fully supports nearly 60% of worldwide transport category aircraft via AML-STC configurations and are positioned to add more type/mode/series aircraft with minimal time, effort and expense.  As to our collaboration with GDC, we have been impressed with both GDC’s organization improvements and revised vision resultant from their 2014 reorganization.  It is clear to our management team that GDC and its leadership are as committed to a path of continuous advancement in the same way that ASIG has been with avionics design, and is focused on bringing quality products, services and workmanship into the domestic MRO market as evidenced by its significant investment to its operational infrastructure.” said Luke Ribich, managing director of ASIG. About GDC Technics GDC Technics is a seasoned aircraft modification center based out of Texas. Holding multiple approvals including FAA and EASA 145 approvals, GDC is also certified to ISO 9001, AS9100 and AS9110 quality management systems. It is leading the industry in modifying next generation aircraft, such as the B787. About the Avionics & Systems Integration Group ASIG specializes in system integration and supplemental engineering, installation kit and component manufacturing and type design and certifications in support of COM/NAV, IFE, Situational Awareness and Air traffic management (CNS/ATM), maintenance, modification and AMOC/non-SRM repair compliance activities.  ASIG also performs research and development of emerging technologies in support of aircraft and rotorcraft operations for civil, commercial, government and foreign flight departments.  Additionally, ASIG is the lead developer and technology owner for flyTab XFB solutions for Apple iPad.  ASIG holds multiple approvals including FAA Part 145 Repair Station Certificates, FAA Parts Manufacturer Authorization and numerous FAA and TCCA Supplemental Type Certificates, all under the surveillance of the company’s ISO 9001 compliant quality control system. For additional information regarding ASIG's operating activities, products and services, visit them online at www.asigllc.com or subscribe the company's bi-weekly technical journal, Wired - An Avionics & Integration Weblog" at asigllc.blogspot.com.  To obtain technical details and other information about the flyTab XFB platform, visit ASIG's product website at www.flyTab.aero.  ASIG, the Avionics & Systems Integration Group, is not affiliated with Aircraft Services International Group or BBA Aviation. - END OF RELEASE ###

ASIG Awarded STC for Enstrom 480B TACAN + Sandel SN3500

Avionics Systems & Integration Group

10 Collins Industrial Place, Suite 3-B
North Little Rock, AR 72113

Phone: (866) 890-2744 or (501) 771-9388

Fax: (800) 903-9607
Email:  sales@asigllc.com
Web: www.asigllc.com | www.flyTab.aero

Little Rock, AR | April 21, 2014 - Avionics & Systems Integration Group (ASIG) has announced today that the company has been awarded a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the installation of an L3 AN/ARN-154 TACAN system and Sandel SN3500 EHSI system on the Enstrom 480B rotorcraft.  The certification has been accomplished in cooperation with Enstrom Helicopter Corporation and Helicopter Specialties, Inc. of Janesville, WI and has been undertaken in support of a foreign military service customer.

The L-3 airborne TACAN AN/ARN-154(V) is the world's lightest and smallest TACAN ever produced at only 6.5 pounds and is the only multi-station tracking TACAN available in the world. The system has the capability to track up to four ground stations simultaneously in range and two in bearing. Tracking velocity is up to 1800 knots.  The complete TACAN system consists of an RT-1634(V) Receiver/Transmitter; TACAN Control Unit with mounting base; and an Indicator Unit ID-2502. The system can be used for Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground operations and meets MIL-STD 291C and NATO STANAG-5034. 

The Sandel SN3500 EHSI is a sunlight readable Primary Navigation Display which features an ultra-wide-angle field of view and LED-backlit illumination.  When installed with the L3 AN/ARN-154(V) TACAN on the Enstrom 480B, the platform provides improved situational awareness by presenting compass map, flight plan and RMI data in a bright, crisp and easy-to-read format which can be configured for NVIS flight operations.

About the Avionics & Systems Integration Group
ASIG specializes in system integration and supplemental engineering, installation kit and component manufacturing and other system design and certification requirements in support of COM/NAV, IFE, Situational Awareness and Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM); maintenance, modification and AMOC/non-SRM repair compliance activities.  ASIG also performs design research and development of emerging technologies in support of aircraft and rotorcraft operations for civil, commercial, government and foreign flight departments.  Additionally, ASIG is the lead developer and technology owner for the flyTab™ Class 2 EFB solutions for use with Apple® iPad™.  For additional information regarding ASIG's operating activities, products, and services, visit them online at www.asigllc.com or subscribe to the company’s bi-weekly technical journal, “Wired – An Avionics & Integration Weblog” at http://asigllc.blogspot.com.  To obtain technical details and other information about the flyTab Class 2 iPad EFB visit ASIG’s product website at www.flyTab.aero.  ASIG, Avionics & System Integration Group, is not affiliated with Aircraft Services International Group or BBA Aviation. – END OF RELEASE

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Class 2 Tablet EFB's - From Want to Necessity in 48 Months

Digital technology and aviation is rapidly evolving. Most operators hold on absolute reliance on automated systems both in the air and on the ground and most of us now accept the assumption that computers do a better job of things than we do. Computers, in aviation, are everywhere – whether they are directly supporting flight ops with aeronautical data and as a paper emplacement in airplanes; or, they are carried onto aircraft in the pockets and bags of aircrew and passengers.

It’s important to be reminded that the electronic flight bag or EFB see that out of necessity to reduce costs by improving efficiency. In its simplest form the EFB is a method of replacing aircrew amenities that were once provided on paper by sorting them and storing them in a mobile computer that is built into the airplane.  There are numerous advantages to this, for example a library of manuals that must be carried on-board may weigh up to 50 or 60 pounds and it costs money to haul this added weight around the skies. Also, aircrew no longer has to fly with missing or out-of-date documentation. Gradually as aircraft operators have realized the benefits that their EFB systems were delivering, they also recognized their potential.  So the EFB has evolved into a tool that now plays a major role in flight safety due to the information that it delivers, and the manner in which humans use this data, largely due to its modern ability to connect with on-board avionics.

So what else can the EFB do?  Here are a few examples:

• Navigation and Instrument Approach chart display like the one below;

• Hold, maintain and sort libraries of manuals like the Minimum Equipment List or the Aircraft Flight Manual
• Forms such as Aircraft Logbooks and other Air Safety Reports can be completed, and even automated, using the EFB in ways that ensure clarity and standardization of notation that reduce human induces errors and oversights.

Additionally, EFB’s can hold aircraft performance and weight & balance calculators and in so replace tabulated paper charts while providing more accurate takeoff performance information (V speeds) because they use actual data rather than data which is rounded to the nearest 100 Lbs. to make arithmetic easier for humans.  Here is a performance calculator for a B757:

There are many other uses, which are relevant in the modern, often unpredictable world, including: cabin surveillance, communications, Air Traffic Control applications like ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast).

The advantages and benefits to airlines of deploying EFB fleet-wide are compelling and, depending upon the total cost of entry, can easily be justified through competent ROI analysis in as little as 12-18 months.  Here is another example:

• Flight Tracking – rapid dissemination and promulgation of vital information to aircrews is an important safety feature.  Tracking allows flight crew managers on the ground to see when a crewmember has opened an important flight crew notice and obtain an “R&I” declaration that s/he has read and understood its contents.

The principle of the EFB is a sound idea that offers the operator gains in air safety and operational efficiency through enhanced surveillance and operating cost reductions.  And today, with the ubiquity offered by Tablet EFB (computer) platforms like the Apple iPad, Class 2 capabilities are easily afforded in a form factor that allows pilots to carry on/off their company issued, or approved BYOD (bring your own device), allowing these cost and operating advantages to extend beyond the cockpit and support a broader base of training, communications, reporting and planning requirements.

Today, the next era of these connected realities is upon our industry with Class 2 connected tablet computers.  The flyTab Class 2 iPad EFB solution is now a reality, and certified for use in nearly every Part 25 transport category aircraft.  This convergence of advanced avionics domain data with the usability and portability of the COTS iPad tablet allow airlines to not only provide low-cost augmented reality and forms/document automation but also allows the real-time recording of aircraft flight data, and speedy delivery over air-ground data systems such as Iridium SATCOM, Gatelink, LTE or inexpensive Wi-Fi.  IT also allows the rapid architecture, design and deployment of Type A & B EFB software applications that can easily be deployed upon highly qualified and airworthiness certified platforms using development tools and processes that are not only abundant, but are frameworks already approved by the world’s CAA’s.  Operator customization, which used to be non-existent in early EFB platforms, is now fast, inexpensive and can be adapted, even conformed, to the airlines own unique operating environment, minimizing implementation obstacles – which directly relates to cost savings.  And because the developmental frameworks for the customized systems is built upon a proven hardware platform and fielded with TSO’d equipage, device and applications training is minimal and often transparent to the end-user and regulatory authorizers.

To conclude, EFB computing devices have everyday benefits that support not only aircrew members, but also corporate managers and executive leaders in their visibility over nearly ever aspect of the flight operations and continued airworthiness.  These advances directly lends to enhanced access to information and allows everyone from cockpit-to-corporate to make the most informed decisions possible thus enhancing safety, dispatch reliability, minimizing strains to crew resource management, improving communications, training, materials management, and overall operating efficiency.  And in a world of razor-thin margins, what responsible airline manager is willing to cede the obvious benefits these data points provide in the name of short-terms gains.  Our sources say very few.

Until next time, stay 5x5, mission ready and Wired!