Portable Rugged Test Equipment for Aircraft Ground Equipment (AGE)
Challenge
To develop portable test equipment for Aircraft Ground Equipment (AGE) that is rugged, reliable, and adheres to Mil. Std. 810 for durability while meeting stringent transport and usability requirements.
Solution
Thanehall engineered a robust and portable testing solution using Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) components wherever feasible, minimising cost and development time while maintaining high reliability. The core system was built around a rugged laptop that served as the central control unit. This laptop interfaced with custom-designed test interfaces and hardened cabling, ensuring optimal performance in demanding environments.
To enhance durability and portability, the equipment was housed in a bespoke rugged (Amazon) case This case was carefully selected and customised to protect the equipment during field operations. Furthermore, the rugged case was designed to fit securely within a bespoke transport case, ensuring compliance with all of the harsh transport standards and providing additional layers of protection.
Testing and Certification
The solution underwent rigorous testing to meet Mil. Std. 810, ensuring it could withstand environmental stresses such as shock, vibration, temperature extremes, and humidity. These tests confirmed the equipment’s suitability for deployment in challenging and varied operational conditions.
Outcome
The final product delivered a portable, durable, and cost-effective testing solution for AGE. Its modular design allows for easy upgrades and maintenance, while the use of ruggedised components and protective cases ensures long-term reliability. This system enables field engineers to efficiently test and maintain AGE, reducing downtime and improving operational readiness.
This approach demonstrates Thanehall’s commitment to leveraging COTS solutions and tailored engineering to meet complex client requirements, delivering high-quality systems on time and within budget.