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Sikorsky S-76D
Helicopter To Be Equipped With Thales Topdeck Avionics Suite By Jim Douglas |
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December 21, 2011 - The Thales TopDeck avionics suite to
be installed in Sikorsky’s new S-76D helicopter will
offer new “click to fly” ability based on a concept that
has never been installed on a helicopter before: the
Icube-S concept of Intuitivity, Interactivity,
Integration and Safety.
The S-76D helicopter is the newest model in the popular
S-76® helicopter series manufactured by Sikorsky
Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies
Corp. TopDeck is an integrated modular avionics suite in
a glass cockpit derived from the latest technology. “The key to enhancing safety is to optimize the crew’s cognitive workload, particularly during complex tasks,” said Yves Joannic, VP Helicopter Avionics activities of Thales Group. |
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“TopDeck
allows a pilot flying the S-76D helicopter to directly
control cockpit tasks on his displays using an intuitive
Cursor Control Device (iCCD). This iCCD the first of its
kind on a helicopter puts all the functions at the pilot’s
fingertips, thus reducing workload, shortening reaction time
and increasing safety.”
The increased reliability and safety
delivered in the Thales cockpit on the S-76D helicopter builds
upon the well established safety and reliability record of the
S-76 helicopter series. Several variations of the TopDeck
avionics are currently flying onboard the AgustaWestland A109,
Boeing’s Chinook, and the ATR72 from the ATR consortium. In addition to the advanced Thales
integrated avionics system and autopilot, the S-76D helicopter’s
features include all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades;
an industry leading external acoustic signature, health and
usage monitoring system, active vibration control; powerful
Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines as standard equipment; and
an optional Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS) for all-weather
capability. “Throughout our test flight program, the S-76D helicopter prototypes have performed exceptionally well, with a smoothness and ease of flight that our customers have consistently expressed great excitement over,” said Dan Hunter, Sikorsky Global Helicopter’s Director of Programs. |