Electronic Flight Bag- Mounting and Temperature Considerations
Use of Electronic Flight Bag is now the norm across the aviation industry. Adding to the full array of Recreational, Private and Commercial operators, RPAS pilots also depend on applications like OzRunways to confirm Airspace, NOTAM, & regulatory information. This blog provides practical and reliable information in the field of EFB to assist all Aviators. Previous editions have focused on the benefits and functionality of EFB, followed by Human Factor considerations. In this article we delve into Mounting and Ergonomic Considerations, plus how to prevent over-temping of your EFB device(s) prior to the next intense summer period.
The successful use of your EFB in flight depends on a good mounting solution, and there are plenty of options. Most regulators such as CASA and CAA have identified three levels or “Classes” which specifies how a device is mounted. There are differences between the systems adopted by CASA and the CAA, however this may change with the publishing of new Advisory Circular documents pertaining to EFB in the near future.
CASA:
Class 1- A portable EFB in either a kneeboard, or temporary mount
Class 2- A portable EFB attached to a permanent mount. Airworthiness approval required (EO/STC)
Class 3- An EFB which is aircraft installed. Airworthiness approval required (EO/STC) or part of original design.
CAA:
Class 1- A portable device not mounted or attached to the aircraft e.g. Kneeboard or unsecured
Class 2- An EFB which is attached to the aircraft with a mounting device. No delineation here between temporary or permanent mounts. Airworthiness Approval required.
Installed- An EFB which is generally part of the aircraft type design and requires an airworthiness approval.
Window suction mounts, clamp supports, and kneeboards are common options, while some operators elect to go with the superior option of a permanent mount. This will most definitely require an Engineering Order (EO) or Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)... More on these in a future article! Devices located in line of sight, or on the instrument console also make it easy to keep an approach plate in view; an important consideration when flying IFR. If using this functionality, it’s a good idea to lock the screen before commencing an instrument approach.
Pre-flighting the mounting system, especially a temporary mount is a vital check. Remember, your EFB and everything associated with it is just an extension of the aircraft, and should be treated as such. You don’t want the EFB and mount falling off on your cyclic arm! Some temporary suction cup mounts have 2 suction cups, and also a tell-tale when the suction is becoming low and requires re-application. It is important to note that in cockpits using these temporary mounts, CASA require you to stow the EFB during Take-off/landing, below 1000ft AGL, and when experiencing turbulence- A good reason to use a permanent mount if possible.
Ergonomics are very important when determining how to arrange your cockpit. Carefully consider the types of flying you will need to do such as powerline survey, media, EMS etc and how these will affect your EFB cockpit setup. Most importantly, no obstruction to external vision or instrumentation should occur, and control inputs should be unobstructed. It’s a good idea to neatly house and stow charging cables when not in use. Guard against damage to perspex by ensuring no contact between the EFB and windshield.
The temperature and serviceability of your device is also greatly affected by its position in the cockpit. Devices are designed to dissipate heat from the back and any excessive heat exposure while being stored within a case and mount can quickly lead to an over-temp situation and loss of data- hopefully you packed your redundancy! Consider a combined defence to prevent your device from exceeding the recommended 35-degrees. These can be divided into: 1. Reduce Heat Production from within the device; 2. Reduce device exposure to direct sunlight; 3. Increase heat dissipation/cooling from the device
Orientate the screen out of direct sunlight by mounting the device appropriately. A more vertical screen orientation can also help here.
Put the screen to sleep and cover when not in use. In the past we didn’t look at our paper charts every ten-seconds, so why do we need to look at the screen so often? Let the device cool down during summer.
Turn the screen brightness down to reduce the internal heat production.
Direct internal vents onto the device.
Do not leave the device in a parked aircraft to bake in the sun.
Some designs allow space between the back of the device and case which provides cooling. PIVOT is a good example of this with only 18% of the device rear surface contacting the case.
Most of us have seen cooling cases on the market with built-in fans. Check companies like MyGoFlight.
If an over-temp occurs, Aviate, Navigate, Communicate as required, cover and stow to cool, access backup device/paper charts.
Here’s a link to some complimentary content from the Airspace Flight Solutions Online EFB Training Course:
https://vimeo.com/422685843/3094b14609
Airspace Flight Solutions supplies a range of EFB equipment and will ensure you purchase the correct kit for your unique cockpit scenario. Check out our EFB Products Page.
In the next edition we will look at battery and charging considerations, especially as your device begins to age. Until then, you can review products and services on the website contact me on andrew@airspaceflightsolutions.com.au with any questions. Safe flying!