Page 32 - 2020 Interconnect Innovations eBook

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Industry engagement is another consideration when evaluating AAM supplier partners. In a developing market, it can be extremely beneficial to work with a partner that is already engaged and understands what lies ahead. In addition to having an in-house certification team that can generate the appropriate reports and documentation required to ensure compliance with FAA and aerospace industry airworthiness standards, participation in organizations such as SAE and Aerospace and Defense Industries Association (ASD) means that your supplier partner is playing a role in establishing global standards for electric aerial vehicle applications, and is thus sure to ensure that you’re meeting those standards as well.
Partner with Suppliers That Offer a Broad Range of Available Solutions
AAM aircraft are designed to be lightweight, compact, and highly efficient. However, interconnect technologies that meet these needs for aircraft may be different from those designed for terrestrial use, so choosing the right products is essential for meeting the operational requirements of these electric and hybrid-electric propulsion aircraft.
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» Power feeder assemblies made of aluminum cable and terminal lugs offer a weight savings of 60% or more relative to equivalent copper assemblies.
Connectors with these characteristics already exist. So, to enter the AAM market more quickly, efficiently, and cost effectively, developers should first look to suppliers with an extensive existing portfolio of interconnect solutions with these attributes. While the electrical generation and the high-voltage components of the distribution system require an entirely new approach, much of the AAM aircraft interconnect system will consist of data and power distribution equipment similar to components used on existing aircraft.
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» The CarlisleIT Octax-Solo 10Gb/s Ethernet connector is a single-port, standalone connector designed for a wide variety of aerospace and military applications. Its small form factor makes it ideal for use in space-constrained AAM applications.
For example, Ethernet and databus networks on aircraft are often constructed of PTFE tape-wrapped cables that minimize cable diameter while providing chafe-resistance. Power distribution at standard voltages — meaning voltages up to 115VAC and 28VDC — can be achieved with lightweight aluminum cable and sealed aluminum terminal lugs that deliver weight savings of 60% or more compared to equivalent copper cables and terminal lugs. All of the products for these applications already exist today.