An Instrument panel for my IBIS homebuilt aircraft
After certification, the plane will be based in Germany, where experimental aircraft aren't allowed to fly according to IFR rules. |
However, since I want a configuration for long distance navigation flights and because future ruling pertaining to N-VFR might change, I might end up with avionics for that mission. Since it's still very early in the project, there's no telling what the panel will look like further down the line. However, my decisions will likely be guided by some of the following thoughts/opinions/prejudices:
Do away with mechanical systems where possible
- steam gauges only for a few backup instruments (altitude, speed & VSI), where required by regulations; no mechanical gyro's.
- design a minimalist and reliable redundant electrical system, based on information that is published here.
- electronics get better and cheaper year by year. Also, the level of integration increases rapidly. Because of this, I initially planned to commit myself to a final concept and panel layout as late as possible. The newest thought process iteration made me realise that I'd like to finalise panel and cable routing design before closing the fuselage. Because of this, I decided to go hunting for navigation equipement that is currently phased out by the professionals.
Some conventional backup instruments - fore & aft
- speed (small 2,25" instruments, non-STC'd in the rear instrument pod)
- altitude (small 2,25" instrument, non-STC'd in the rear instrument pod)
- VSI (small 2,25" instrument, non-STC'd in the rear instrument pod)
- the engine is in the back, so the tried and tested wool tuft on the outside of the canopy provides all the information this former sailplane pilot needs to fly coordinated turns
Incidently, did I mention that panel space is at a premium, being somewhat similar to a sailplane's panel? A picture of a fellow builders' panel will show you that space for mounting instruments is somewhat limited.
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