Flight test and certification plans for low-cost distributed control-by-light systems

Raytheon has developed and is certifying fault-tolerant low-cost distributed Control-By-Light technology for use in the next generation of civil, regional, and general aviation aircraft. Distributed control-by-light holds significant promise when applied to complex sensor/actuator systems such as aircraft controls. The CBL system replaces mechanical, hydraulic and electrical controls presently used to monitor, control and display flight, engine, and utility functions, and has substantial weight, cost, safety, and performance advantages over today's mechanical and fly-by-wire techniques. This paper describes the system concepts, configuration, and flight test program conducted with Raytheon Aircraft Company, and outlines the formal certification program now underway.