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Technology update
A318 tests
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The wind tunnel test program of the 107-seat Airbus A318 is now entering its final phase. Started with pre-launch trials in December 1998, it is due for completion in November.
Scale models varying in size from 1/7.5 to 1/22 have been tested in six European high- and low-speed wind tunnels. Minor refinements to the original design have been implemented. These concern the aircraft's slightly larger fin and rudder, design improvements introduced early last year to compensate for the reduced effect of the vertical stabilizer on the shorter airframe, as well as the positioning of the new PW6000 engines, which according to Airbus affects the aerodynamics of the exhaust plume and its relationship with the flaps. The A318 is a 4.5 frame shorter version of the A319. Engine choice is the CFM International CFM56-5B or the specially developed Pratt & Whitney PW6000. First flight of the A318 is scheduled for late 2001/early 2002, with the first aircraft in service by the end of 2002.
Airbus is developing an Electronic Pilot Activity and Alertness Monitor (EPAM) with PAGE Aerospace and the Laboratory of Applied Anthropology at the University of Paris V. The aim of EPAM is to assist pilots and crews in managing activity-rest cycles. Described as being in its conceptual phase, it involves a fatigue detection device measuring factors such as eye movements and pilot interaction with flight deck systems and equipment. The monitor is said to be able to ascertain whether a pilot needs to rest or just perform certain tasks to bring alertness back to an appropriate level.
Stuart Birch
Aerospace Engineering July 2000
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