18 October 2016
+VIDEO A device which helps helicopter pilots react to low rotor rpm situations – such as engine failure – has received a Supplemental Type Certificate. The STC enables HeliTrak’s Collective Pull Down to be fitted to Robinson R22 helicopters. Other helicopters will be added in the future.
“The FAA certification supports our vision for developing innovative safety products like the CPD which senses low rotor rpm and automatically lowers the collective,” said a spokesman for HeliTrak. “The CPD’s response allows the pilot time to recognise the low rpm situation.”
https://player.vimeo.com/video/174690621
The pilot’s recognition time in the event of low rotor rpm is a concern with all models of helicopters but especially on the Robinson R22, used widely for training. Typically, an R22 pilot has about a second to react to low rotor rpm, lower the collective lever and enter an autorotation for a forced landing.
“A primary design goal for the CPD was to improve the probability of a successful outcome in the event of a sudden loss of rotor rpm,” said Chris Nehls, President of HeliTrak.
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