The Power & Data Systems Group (PDS) of AMETEK Aerospace & Defense has been selected by Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., to supply both Primary Power Distribution and Integrated Generator Control Functions on the new HondaJet business aircraft.  Additionally, AMETEK has been selected to supply Circuit Breaker Panels and Interior Cabin Load Control utilizing AMETEK's patented AMPHIONTM Solid-State Power Controller (SSPC) for its unsurpassed  efficiency, reliability and protection.  

HondaJet is an advanced light jet offering class-leading performance, fuel efficiency, interior cabin space and cargo capacity achieved through numerous innovative technological advances in aviation design.  Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft, HondaJet is scheduled for first deliveries in the United States in late 2010.  

HondaJet's Primary Power Distribution System distributes DC electrical power from AMETEK Advanced Industries, Inc., 325A DC Starter Generators combining communications, control and load monitoring features through an ARINC 429 databuss to the avionics suite.  Integration of the power generation and distribution system provides a common architecture with features unique to traditional electrical power systems, while ensuring a robust platform that is both scalable and upgradable.  

AMETEK's AMPHION SSPCs are based on patented circuitry that serves as the building block for an entirely new architecture for the control and distribution of aircraft power. They provide circuit protection as well as the capability to remotely switch power to devices, monitor load voltage and current, and relay data on performance trends and prognostics for preventive maintenance.  

AMPHION's patented "fail-open" circuitry prevents a device failing in a short-circuited condition, preventing a load from remaining powered and unprotected. Its load management abilities offer power distribution system designers such features as emergency power bus load control and isolation, load balancing, and load shedding. AMPHION SSPCs can distinguish between the fault current pattern typical of an arc and normal inrush surges or other types of current peaks. Specific packages, such as the MS-3320 style AMPHION circuit breaker, also can provide a visual indication of the fault type and communication over an industry standard single-wire data bus.  

AMPHION technology is available in multiple packages from custom PC board mounted devices to stand-alone, military relay and circuit breaker envelopes. Its unique arc-fault detecting ability allows it to trip on intermittent faults produced by wire insulation failure and other causes.  

AMETEK's Interior Load Control Units (PDUs) offer a thin, flat profile, allowing installation into the most compact spaces on the aircraft at, or very near, the individual loads.  Both AC and DC PDU devices are available: a 120-VAC, 40-amp version with 12 circuits and a 28-VDC, 30-amp version with 16 circuits. Both models feature programmable over-current trip settings for each circuit utilizing a field adjustable personality module that is specifically configured for each aircraft location during installation.