GA-ATS and AEE are partnering to newly develop the Do228 NXT Engine Interface Unit (EIU)

The EIU is a crucial interface component in the aircraft, connecting the engines to the aircraft management system. It collects engine data, fuel level indicators, and flap positions, evaluates them, and forwards them to the cockpit displays. The CAWS ensures that warning messages are reliably delivered to the cockpit. Additionally, a variety of smaller AEE components are used in the Do228, such as temperature controllers, various relay boards, voltage indicators, current indicators, etc.

Successful Long-Term Cooperation Continues

AEE had already developed the EIU for the Do 228 NG before its market launch in 2010. As key components are no longer available, the now-necessary complete redesign offered the opportunity to expand the EIU's capabilities with several new functions and improvements. The Do228 OEM chose AEE due to their extensive experience in developing and producing advanced electronic systems for the aviation industry and their expertise in engine interface solutions.

“As a supplier for the Do228 for more than 30 years, we are proud to continue and expand this successful partnership, now with General Atomics AeroTec Systems as the new holder of the Type Certificate,” says Lukas Hamm-Riff, AEE Accountable Manager EASA Part 21G & Part 145. "Both components will be developed in accordance with Design Assurance Level (DAL) B. Production and maintenance will be carried out under our EASA Part 21G and Part 145 certifications, respectively."

“With the start of production for the Do228 NXT, it is of great importance to us to work with reliable local partners and ensure a stable supply chain to serve our customers effectively,” says Erik Bollen, Managing Director of GA-ATS. “We are pleased that after decades of successful collaboration with AEE, we can further build on this partnership and jointly drive the relaunch of the Do228.”

Technical Enhancements and Key Improvements

The new development of the Engine Interface Unit (EIU) provides the aircraft with several significant performance improvements that facilitate the operation and handling of the new Do228 NXT:

• Additional A429 Input: The upgraded EIU will feature an additional A429 input to support future integration with the new fuel system. It will also manage the pressure refueling logic once the new system is implemented.

• Emulation of Speed Switches: The unit will emulate the function of the speed switches used for automatic engine starting and ignition. This eliminates the need to install separate speed switches in the aircraft, simplifying installation and maintenance.

• Calibration of Analog Sensors: The EIU will now allow for the calibration of analog sensors, reducing the risk of miscomparisons and preventing signals from falling outside of factory tolerance limits.

Cost-Effective, Backward-Compatible, and Future-Proof EIU

The updated Engine Interface Unit offers customers several crucial advantages. One of the main benefits is complete backward compatibility, ensuring the new unit serves as a direct, form-fit-function replacement without requiring changes to existing wiring or configuration. The future-proof design ensures that the upgraded EIU is fully compatible with the upcoming fuel system, making it a long-term solution for evolving aircraft technology.

Another major advantage is cost savings, as the elimination of speed switches leads to lower component costs and reduced overall maintenance expenses. Finally, the enhanced sensor flexibility allows for the calibration of analog sensors, enabling greater adaptability when changing or replacing these components. This results in improved reliability and operational efficiency for aircraft operators.

Do228 NXT as a State-of-the-Art Multipurpose Aircraft

With this partnership, General Atomics AeroTec Systems and AEE Aircraft Electronic Engineering reaffirm their commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in aviation technology, making the Do228 NXT a modern multipurpose platform. The new and improved EIU will guarantee Do228 NXT operators worldwide greater mission efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The aircraft can be used for special missions and light transport flights, impressing with its versatile cabin layouts, STOL capability, and robust design.