The Next Generation of Aircraft Systems: Meet CERTIFICATE

What is CERTIFICATE?

Systems Technology, Inc. (STI) is excited to announce the continuation of the CERTIFICATE project, which stands for Certification and Safety of In-Flight Multi-Objective Decision Making (MODM) Algorithm Techniques. This initiative, funded by NASA’s Phase II SBIR program, aims to develop an innovative tool for certifying Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) systems. This project is a collaboration among STI, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Purdue University, and the University of Maryland (UMD). The outcome of this effort will be a cutting-edge product designed to support verification and validation processes crucial for certifying the next generation of aircraft.

How Does CERTIFICATE Work?

As we move towards more AAM concepts, many future aircraft will feature sophisticated fly-by-wire flight control systems, advanced envelope protections, and Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVO) for pilot control. In addition, advancements in autonomy are expected to play a significant role in the cockpit, enhancing pilot support. To ensure these systems are safe and effective, it is important that control systems are both explainable and secure, especially when dealing with adaptive or non-linear controls and Multi-Objective Decision Making (MODM) algorithms.

CERTIFICATE is designed to address these challenges by establishing a comprehensive certification framework and advanced software toolset for MODM autonomous technologies. By integrating new Envelope Protection (EP) schemes, neural control certificates, and correct-by-construction software paradigms, CERTIFICATE ensures a rigorous validation process for emerging autonomous systems.

Our platform creates a versatile Vehicle Model Under Test (MUT) environment, tailored with certification rules and requirements specific to the vehicle’s mission. This adaptability supports the wide-scale adoption of novel AAM and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) platforms.

CERTIFICATE has been designed with ease of integration in mind, allowing future users to incorporate their software seamlessly. The system’s design emphasizes realistic task performance, testing MODM algorithms against mission scenarios within the National Airspace. This approach ensures that algorithms are thoroughly evaluated under realistic conditions and operational missions. STI is integrating proposed Handling Qualities (HQTE) and Automation Qualities Task Elements (AQTE) as part of the system solution.

Ready to explore future methods of vehicle testing and software verification?

Contact our team today to learn more: https://www.systemstech.com/contact/.

About Systems Technology Inc.: Systems Technology Inc. (STI) is a technology company at the forefront of innovation, specializing in aviation and simulation solutions. With a mission to advance safety and efficiency in aviation, STI develops cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace industry.

MCRUER: Accelerating Handling Qualities Evaluations for Urban Air Mobility Certification

Since 2018, Systems Technology, Inc. (STI) has collaborated with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop Means of Compliance (MoC) methods for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles, as outlined in DOT/FAA/TC-22/49. Central to our approach is the Mission Task Element (MTE) methodology, which establishes repeatable tests derived from the vehicle’s Concept of Operations (CONOPS). This methodology effectively evaluates key aircraft attributes, including mission performance and pilot workload. 

Recent publications, including DOT/FAA/TC-23/59 and EUROCAE ED-295, have refined test methodologies and processes for assessing the handling qualities of eVTOL vehicles. Given the high costs and logistical challenges associated with constructing and maintaining traditional test courses, STI is developing innovative methodologies to facilitate more accessible and customizable evaluations. Our solutions are designed to enhance ease of use and adaptability, addressing the diverse needs of the eVTOL industry.

Introducing the MCRUER System

In collaboration with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), STI has developed the Means of Compliance Requirements for UAM Evaluations and Ratings (MCRUER) system. This tablet-based cockpit display technology, developed under a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, addresses flight testing and compliance challenges by providing test pilots with virtual Mission Task Element (MTE) courses for handling qualities evaluations.

The MCRUER system utilizes real-time flight data or simulation inputs to drive a tablet-based display, presenting virtual MTE courses to both the pilot and flight test engineer. This approach reduces the need for extensive physical test courses and external infrastructure, accelerates the evaluation process through rapid prototyping new course designs, and helps manage costs associated with operational constraints.

Key Features and Performance of the MCRUER System

• Tablet-based display: A versatile platform for presenting MTEs and recording task performance, pilot commentary, and handling qualities ratings, accommodating both live and simulated data inputs. 

• Data Acquisition System (MDAS): Collects and processes flight data, including additional aircraft signals, to drive the MCRUER displays and assess MTE performance accurately. 

• Enhanced testing flexibility: Evaluate vehicles under various conditions without requiring physical test courses. 

• Versatile application: In addition to pilot-in-the-loop flight testing, MCRUER supports simulation and unmanned applications.

Flight Test Results Validate MCRUER System Efficiency

Recent flight tests with the National Research Council Canada’s variable stability Bell 412, in collaboration with Bolder Flight Systems (BFS), have demonstrated that pilots successfully conducted MTEs using both physical courses and the MCRUER system.  

Results indicated a strong correlation in handling qualities and performance metrics, validating the MCRUER system as a reliable and efficient tool for MTE evaluations.

Streamlining Vehicle Certification with the MCRUER System

The MCRUER system offers an efficient, adaptable solution for assessing new vehicle designs. Its precision in matching traditional live MTE evaluations makes it an invaluable asset for both current and future certification efforts. As the UAM market continues to expand, the MCRUER system will be instrumental in ensuring the safe and timely introduction of innovative air mobility solutions.

For more information on how the MCRUER system can enhance your certification process, contact us today: https://www.systemstech.com/contact/

About Systems Technology Inc.: Systems Technology Inc. (STI) is a technology company at the forefront of innovation, specializing in aviation and simulation solutions. With a mission to advance safety and efficiency in aviation, STI develops cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace industry.