Advanced Aviation Diagnostics RAP-002

PSI to created a high-performance embedded system for real-time rotor azimuth and speed measurement applicable to any rotored aircraft. Designed to operate with precision in demanding flight test environments, the system needed to capture and process helicopter tachometer and contactor signals with extreme speed and accuracy. PSI developed a robust firmware solution and an intuitive desktop configuration tool to ensure reliable data acquisition and system flexibility across a variety of aircraft configurations.

PSI engineered a custom embedded Rotor Azimuth Processor (RAP) that processes main and tail rotor azimuth data 5,000 times per second and calculates main rotor speed at a configurable frequency of 1 to 50 times per second. The firmware, developed in C for a PIC microcontroller, delivers rapid, reliable output — updating azimuth every 200 microseconds and rotor speed every 200 milliseconds. To complement the embedded system, PSI also developed a Windows-based configuration application using Visual Basic, enabling engineers to easily set flight parameters and tailor the system to each helicopter’s unique operational profile.

By combining deep expertise in embedded systems with user-focused application design, PSI delivered a solution that supports precision flight instrumentation and enhances test program flexibility. The Rotor Azimuth Processor was engineered for speed, adaptability, and reliability — essential attributes for flight test and rotorcraft development environments. PSI’s integrated firmware and software approach empowers pilots and test engineers to streamline setup, reduce testing risk, and accelerate the pace of innovation in rotorcraft experimentation. Ultimately, this product was sold to and remains operational by the United States military.