Aerco’s Honeywell specialist, Maria Moreno, introduces the benefits of innovative sensor technology designed to enhance aircraft safety and reliability.
Among Honeywell’s notable innovations in aviation technology are the General Aerospace Proximity Sensors (GAPS) and Harsh Application Proximity Sensors (HAPS). These sensors, integral to various aircraft functions, leverage cutting-edge technology to ensure optimal performance in standard and extreme aerospace environments.
Honeywell’s GAPS are designed to detect the presence or absence of ferrous metal targets. These sensors are commonly found in landing gear, aircraft doors and safety features like evacuation slides. By ensuring that locks are triggered correctly when landing gear is stowed or deployed, and verifying the engagement of door locks, GAPS play a crucial role in maintaining aircraft integrity and passenger safety.
A standout feature of Honeywell’s proximity sensors is the Fixed Amplitude Variable Current Oscillator (FAVCO) technology. This unique system continuously monitors the health of the sensor, providing a third state output that indicates if the sensor is functioning, in an on/off state or faulty. This capability significantly reduces the time required for fault finding and maintenance, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing aircraft downtime.
Constructed from Inconel, a nickel-chromium-based superalloy, GAPS exhibit exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, even in high-temperature and high-pressure environments. The sensors do not require physical contact with the target, eliminating wear and tear, and boast a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 500,000 hours. This robust construction ensures a long service life, making them a reliable choice for various aerospace applications.
Building on the solid foundation of GAPS, Honeywell’s Harsh Aerospace Proximity Sensors (HAPS) are engineered for the most challenging conditions. Retaining key features of the GAPS series, HAPS operate within a temperature range of -55 to 115°C and the impressive lifespan of up to 500k flight hours. Furthermore, HAPS offer an extended sensing distance of 4mm, enhancing their versatility in critical applications.
HAPS are deployed in crucial aircraft components such as Thrust Reverser Actuation Systems (TRAS), engines, engine housings (nacelles) and cockpit canopies. Their robust design, featuring Inconel construction, provides excellent dielectric properties, effectively insulating against lightning strikes and ensuring reliability even in the harshest conditions.
Honeywell’s aerospace sensors are hermetically sealed and come in various configurations including flange, threaded, integral connector and with a wire-lead seal (pigtail) option. They offer enhanced durability and meet stringent radio frequency conducted susceptibility standards at 300mA Level Y. This ensures their reliable performance in high-interference environments, making HAPS an ideal choice for both aerospace and ground military vehicle applications.