PRACTICAL *(TRAINER/HANGAR WORK)

Student 22252 SLD (U) NUR FATIN ZAHIDAH BINTI ZAINIDI

Name 22253 SLD (U) RENEE SUZANNE BINTI UDAN
22254 SLD (U) NORSHAFINAZ BINTI MORSIDI
Module
M13
Code
Module M13 (P).1
Title

Topic AUTOFLIGHT
Group Date
AVN07
Code
Total Passing Mark
Marks

Aims/Objectives of the module

1 To understand the fundamental principles and working of aircraft
systems.
2 To understand the functions of basic components of different types of
aircraft systems and their operation as an integrated unit.
3 To enable the trainee to observe/perform servicing, testing, fault
isolation and repair procedures on aircraft systems.

STUDENT’S INSTRUCTIONS

TASKS:
Carry out *Inspection and continuity test on AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer.
1. In groups you are required to carry out the task as specified on your task card.
2. Individually complete your PRC-06. (Include schematic diagram/wiring diagram,
functional test, and findings or conclusions).
3. Submit one week after the task is completed (hard copy).
4. Complete all documentation such as logbook entry, trainer logs, etc.
PRC06 REPORT RUBRIC
Criteria Points
Introduction
- Clear description of activity /5
- Purpose and objectives stated /5
Procedure
- Detailed step-by-step process /5
- Safety precautions mentioned /5
Observations
- Accurate and thorough /5
- Focus on key details /5
Visual Appeal
- Neatness and legibility /5
- Effective use of headings, sections /5
Inclusion of Images
- Relevant images/block diagrams included /5
- Clearly labelled and explained /5
Conclusion
- Summary of key findings /5
- Reflection on the activity /5
Overall Report
- Grammar, spelling, punctuation /5
- Organization and coherence /5
References
- Proper citation of sources /5
- Serial number/part number stated /5
Total Points /80

Values: 5=Excellent 4=Above Average 3=Average 2=Below Average 1=Weak

 SOA-PRC06
APPROVED
SCHOOL OF AVIATION Rev: 0
BASIC
STUDENT REPORT FORM Date: JAN TRAINING
2021

MODULE: M13 (P) SUB-MODULE M13 (P).1 AUTOFLIGHT

SERIAL NO. ☐ HANGAR ☐ WORKSHOP ☒ LABORATORY

1. TYPE 2. AIRCRAFT/ENGINE/ 3. AIRCRAFT/ENGINE/ 4. TRADE 5. LEVEL OF

EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT TYPE STUDY
IDENTIFICATION
☐AIRCRAFT HNTEC IN
AIRCRAFT
☐ENGINE AVOTEK AUTOPILOT
AV-12 B2 MAINTENANCE
SYSTEM TRAINER
☒EQUIPMENT ENGINEERING
(AVIONIC)

TASK: CARRY OUT CONTINUITY TEST AND FAULT FINDING OF AV-12

REPORT

INTRODUCTION

The Avotek AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer is a three axis, fully functional autopilot system. The system includes
an independent yaw damper system. The Avotek AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer is designed to provide hands-on
experience in understanding and troubleshooting an aircraft autopilot system. This activity aims to familiarize
students with the operational principles, key components, and maintenance procedures of an autopilot system. The
primary objective is to enhance technical knowledge and practical skills in autopilot system diagnostics, setup, and
troubleshooting. The trainer mimics real aircraft avionics, allowing users to familiarize themselves with automatic
flight control principles in a controlled learning environment.

BASIC BLOCK DIAGRAM

KEY COMPONENTS

The Avotek Trainer consists of seven components, not counting the cable harness. These components are
illustrated in Figure 1. And are as follows:

Essential components of the AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer

1. Console 4. Directional Gyro
2. Amplifier 5. Altitude Hold Sensor
3. Artificial Horizon 6. Roll Servo

Figure 1. Three Axis Autopilot System

FUNCTIONS

These components work together to control the aircraft’s movement and maintain stability. Below is a simple
explanation of each component and its function:

Components Function
Acts as the pilot's interface. It allows the user to control autopilot functions and adjust
Console
settings.
Processes signals from various sensors and sends commands to the servos to move the
Amplifier
aircraft's control surfaces.
Provides roll and pitch information to the autopilot, helping it maintain the correct aircraft
Artificial Horizon
attitude.
Directional Gyro Detects the aircraft’s heading and helps the autopilot fly in the selected direction.
Detects altitude and helps keep the aircraft at the desired level when altitude hold mode
Altitude Hold Sensor
is active.
Roll Servo Moves the ailerons to control the aircraft’s roll (banking left or right).
Pitch servo Moves the elevators to control the aircraft’s pitch (nose up or nose down).
PRE-SETUP INSPECTION AND SETUP PROCEDURE / PREFLIGHT
Before operating The Avotek AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer, it is essential to perform a pre-setup inspection and
follow the correct setup procedures. These steps ensure the system functions properly and safely. Below are the
key procedures to follow:

1. Pre-Setup Inspection
• Ensure all trainer components are securely in place.
• Check all plumbing and hardware for tight fittings.
• Inspect electrical wiring for any loose connections.
• Verify that the power cable is intact, without cuts, wear, or abrasions.
• Identify and familiarize yourself with all control switches and components.

2. Setup Procedure / Preflight

• Set the AC master switch to the OFF position before plugging in the unit. (Unplug the trainer when
not in use.)
• Centre the Roll and Pitch controls on the Command Console.
• Connect the power cord to the appropriate AC power source.

OPERATIONAL CHECKS

ROLL SECTION CHECKS

This procedure ensures the autopilot system functions correctly in Roll and Heading modes.
Steps to Follow:
Check Artificial Horizon - Make sure it is properly aligned (not tilted too much). If needed, start the engine
to fix it.

Power On the System - Turn on the master switch and centre the Roll and Pitch knobs.

Test the Roll Function - Turn on the Roll rocker switch. If it doesn’t stay on, further checks are needed.
Move the Roll knob left and right and see if the control surfaces respond.

Check Servo Engagement - If the control wheel doesn’t move, gently move the control surfaces to check if
the roll servo is working.

Test Electrical Power - Turn the autopilot back on and check if the Power Section solenoid light turns
on. If the light is off, there may be an issue with the wiring or amplifier.

Verify Artificial Horizon and - With the Roll knob centred, the control wheel should move based on the
Amplifier Artificial Horizon’s tilt. If not, test with a replacement gyro (66D141-1) to see if
the issue is with the horizon or the amplifier.

Check Wiring Connections - Ensure correct wiring between components, including connections from the CD-
47 to the amplifier and CD-18 to the Artificial Horizon.
 Final Test - Press HDG ON and turn the Roll knob. If nothing happens, further
troubleshooting is needed.

PITCH SECTION CHECKS

In some aircraft, the elevator control surfaces are too heavy for the pitch servo to move on its own. You may need
to manually pull up the elevator and hold it neutral while testing the pitch function.

Check the Trim Meter - Move the Pitch Command Wheel up and down.
The trim meter should show movement.
If the trim meter doesn’t work but the pitch system does, the problem is in the
console.

Engage the Pitch System - Press the "Pitch" button and check if the solenoid engages. Move the elevator
up and down to see if it follows the command.
If the solenoid does not engage:
• Use the Console Substitute (66D141-3) to check for console issues.
• If the console is fine, test the Power Section (CD-16).
• If the solenoid lamp lights up, but the servo doesn’t move, the problem
is in the pitch servo.
• If no power reaches the CD-16 Connector, check the wiring.

Check Amplifier Output - If the trim meter works but the servo doesn’t, the amplifier may be faulty.
It is often easier to bench test the amplifier than access the servo. Use a
Power Section connected to CD-16 to confirm amplifier output.

Test Altitude Hold Function - Press "Alt Hold" and observe if the trim meter and servo adjust to any offset
in the Artificial Horizon. The Pitch Command Wheel should not affect the
amplifier output in this mode. If there’s a switching issue, use the Console
Substitute to rule out console problems. The Altitude Hold function cannot
be tested in the aircraft—it requires a bench test.

YAW DAMPER SYSTEM CHECKS

The AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer includes an independent Yaw Damper. This unit functions to maintain the
rudder position of the aircraft to eliminate skids and slips in turns.

Proper system operation can be demonstrated as follows:

Set Aircraft Rudder - Keep the rudder in a straight-and-level position.

Power On - Turn on the trainer master switch. The GYRO flag should disappear.

Engage Yaw Damper - Turn on the Yaw Damper switch; the Y/D flag should disappear.

Disengage Yaw Damper - Turn it off again. The Y/D flag should reappear.
 Check Right Yaw Ensure the rudder is straight, then rotate the G-840A to the right. The rate-
of-turn indicator should move right.

Check Left Yaw - Rotate the G-840A to the left. The rate-of-turn indicator should move left.

Re-engage Yaw Damper - Turn the Yaw Damper switch on again; the Y/D flag should disappear.

Test Rudder Pedal – Right Yaw - Rotate the G-840A to the right. The rudder pedal should move to the left.

Test Rudder Pedal – Left Yaw - Rotate the G-840A to the left. The rudder pedal should move to the right.

TROUBLESHOOTING WIRING ISSUES IN THE AV-12 AUTOPILOT SYSTEM TRAINER

Show the wiring diagrams available of the Avotek AV12 and show which wire is the possible cause of failure if:

i. No power to the amplifier, system does not function.

Possible Wiring Issue:

• Check the power supply wiring to the amplifier module.
• Verify the fuse and circuit breaker connections for continuity.
• Inspect the ground wire for a secure connection.
• Ensure the main power switch and relay wiring are functioning properly.

ii. Moving compass card or heading does not affect the control surfaces, but surfaces still move when the
artificial horizon is moved (Roll control disabled on the console)

Possible Wiring Issue:

▪ Check the heading input sensor wiring (compass card circuit).
▪ Verify connections between the heading sensor and autopilot computer.
▪ Ensure the mode selector switch is correctly wired and functioning.
▪ Inspect the roll control circuit wiring for loose or disconnected wires.

iii. Yaw damper actuator is inoperative.

Possible Wiring Issue:

• Check the yaw damper actuator wiring for continuity.
• Verify the yaw damper amplifier connections to the autopilot computer.
• Ensure the yaw rate sensor wiring is intact and properly connected.
• Inspect the yaw damper servo motor wiring for faults.

iv. Pitch servo is inoperative.

Possible Wiring Issue:

• Inspect the pitch servo motor wiring for loose connections.
• Check the amplifier output to the pitch servo.
 • Verify the signal path from the autopilot computer to the pitch servo.
• Ensure the power supply to the pitch control system is active.

v. Altitude hold is inoperative

Possible Wiring Issue:

• Check the altitude sensor (static system) wiring.
• Verify the altitude hold mode switch wiring.
• Inspect the connection between the air data computer and autopilot.
• Ensure the servo wiring related to altitude hold is properly connected.

Fault
Points measure to between Results
Switches
Fault 1 CONSOLE (CD20-2) AMPLIFIER (N) All control surfaces are not working
Fault 3 DIRECTIONAL GYRO (CD33-A) AMPLIFIER (A) DG is not working
Fault 4 ROLL SERVO (CD47-A) AMPLIFIER (M) Roll not functioning (aileron)- pitch working
Fault 5 PITCH SERVO (CD16-D) AMPLIFIER (9) Pitch not functioning (elevator)

CONCLUSION

The Avotek AV-12 Autopilot System Trainer provided valuable insight into the operation and troubleshooting of an
aircraft autopilot system. The step-by-step process allowed for a structured learning experience, reinforcing
theoretical concepts through hands-on practice. Key findings include the importance of accurate wiring, proper
calibration of sensors, and systematic troubleshooting to ensure system reliability. This activity enhanced practical
understanding and prepared students for real-world applications in aircraft autopilot maintenance and repair.

STUDENT’S NAME FATIN, SUZANNE, SHAFINAZ VERIFIED BY

DATE 31ST JANUARY 2025 DATE