Second Generation Smart Actuator

An actuator has been developed and qualified with all loop-closure and redundancy management functions covered by an electronic package physically located on the actuator manifold assembly. The actuator meets or exceeds all Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) requirements of the F/A-18 aileron servocylinder design with the single restriction of 99 °C (210 °F) maximum oil temperature. While the actuator has performed well at temperatures in excess of 135 °C (275 °F), present MIL-SPEC derating for electronics limit the allowable operating range. The basic design offers potential advantages in the areas of weight, maintainability, self-diagnostics, and ease of integration.