Diminutive, and touch-sensitive, the Gemini line of mini integrated autopilots and primary function displays are the next best things coming from TruTrak Flight Systems.
The Gemini product line is designed specifically for Light Sport and Experimental aircraft that lack the panel space for the larger EFIS displays. The Gemini AP 780/880 systems have the familiar knobs and buttons that owners of the TruTrak integrated ADI/Autopilot systems employ. But the Gemini ADI/PFD and Gemini EMS engine management systems are both designed around touch-sensitive screens, with no knobs or buttons to mar their smooth fronts, says Robert Saunders, project engineer.
The Gemini line of autopilot/PFD and straight PFD/ADI products will be available the second and third quarter of 2011, but the company says it will be taking orders on the EMS touchscreen at the 2010 EAA AirVenture show, this July. The systems will run between $1000 and $6000, depending on the complexity of the instrument or autopilot included.
Meantime, feast your eyes on this prototype iPod Touch App—yes, it is the same engine management system display as is available on the EMS, plus a few other pertinent bits of flight information, all streamed to the iPod from a wireless engine module attached to the firewall. This prototype backup system is the work of TruTrak intern Nicolas Dahlet, but who knows? It, too, could be the next best thing in inexpensive, effective backup instrumentation for Experimental aircraft. Watch for it.
For more information, visit TruTrak’s web site.
