OVERVIEW OF AC
    DISTRIBUTION ASSEMBLIES


    Three sophisticated manufacturing techniques are used in producing Leach’s AC power distribution assemblies:


  • A conventional approach uses hermetically sealed, stud terminal type contactors offering overall lighter weight and the ability to function outside the pressurized zone of an aircraft. With this configuration, the entire unit can be a line-replaceable unit (LRU)

  • A busbar "baseplate-type" design using busbar-mounted contactors. This offers the "quick change" convenience associated with plug-in contactors but with some minor disassembly.


  • A modular approach wherein a "baseplate" containing plug-in receptacles, current transformers, busbars, etc., is designed into the aircraft assembly. State-of-the-art line-replaceable plug-in contactors are then utilized.
Based on these techniques, a wide range of Leach AC power distribution assemblies are flying on or are in development for the following programs: Dornier 328
Bell 609 Tiltrotor
Examples:
  • Bell 609 Tiltrotor
  • Dornier 328
  • Northrop Grumman Global Hawk
Designed and manufactured by Leach to satisfy all specific program conditions, these assemblies offer a number of configurations from simple contactor primary distribution -- to fully integrated primary and secondary distribution -- including control logic and protection.
Key Features and Concepts Include:
  • Modular concept used on programs where flexibility is required for easy reconfiguration and options
  • Simple or complex packaging
  • Distributed or integrated architecture for optimized adaptation to aircraft specificities
  • Ventilated or environmentally sealed assemblies
  • Contactors and sensors assemblies designed to be Line Replaceable Units (LRC)
  • Advanced electronic control logic that includes:

    •     -Built in Test (BIT)
        -Fully re-programmable control logic
        -Current sensing
        -Circuit protection
        -Logic and protection control
 Northrop Grumman Global Hawk