Multi Function System Controller (MFSC)

I was inspired by the Vertical Power system, but it did not go far enough and it tried to integrate engine analysis stuff that I was planning on using the G900 to provide.

The MFSC is going to provide the following for my Aircraft

Annunciators
Switches
Breakers
Trim Status & Control
Pressurization Control
HVAC Control
Remote ELT Status and Control
Weight & Balance Calc
Automatic Mode Support for automated checklist processing for the following:
- Starting
- Taxing
- Takeoff
- Climb
- Cruise
- Descent
- Landing
- Shutdown
Emergency Support

The Infinity control sticks in my aircraft are modal and the current behavior of the buttons is controller by the MFSC. The only button on the stick that has a fixed behavior is the PTT for the radio.

Prototype

You can install a prototype of the software by clicking here. This will be implemented on a Windows CE Touch Screen Controller.

This program is still in development. To get a feel for what can be done look at the config.dat file.

I intend to open-source this when complete.

There are two windows in the prototype. One is what you will see on the Aircraft LCD panel. The other simulates the hardware.

There is also a key fob, just like your car. Currently the presence of the key fob will unlock the controller. Otherwise you need the password which is "123". You can signal the key fob in the simulator from the FOB Entry condition.

A sense is user/aircraft defined and is hooked up to a switch that is grounded to be active. A condition is similar to a sense, except it is well know to the controller.

The Windows CE version is a little slower at startup time, other than that the performance is about the same.

Do not forget to push the "ON" button on the Lower Button on the hardware simulator. This simulates the end of self test.

You can switch modes with the "Lower" button. (This will be the bottom most button on my infinity grip).

Peripherals

The hardware is connected to the Controller via the CAN Bus which is a serial link to connect devices. This is used in many of todays automobiles. Currently I have designed the following peripherals:

16 Wire Sense
This provides 16 sense conditions that are ground active signals.
I hook up the Infinity Control Sticks, Landing Gear Micro Switches, various pressure switches, door switches, ...
7 Breaker Module
Each board provides 7 breakers. From 3 to 15 amps, with the ability to adjust the trip response to handle incandescent type of loads. I can measure the current consumed from each breaker.

The following boards are in design:

A multi function Module.
This will have 4 Breakers, which can be Pulse with modulated, and 4 - Sense conditions that can be Battery+ or ground activated or can be a 10 Bit A/D voltage measuring input (0-30V). The PWM outputs can drive FANS at variable speed, provide a light dimmer, WIG/WAG landing lights, etc ...
Ray Alen Servo Driver. Allows PWM control. This will allow a aircraft speed controlled modulated trim. i.e. slow motion at hight speed and fast motion at slow speed.
Relay board, a few things still need relays.

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