Abstract: Smart instrumentation and monitoring provide primary engine instrumentation for an aircraft. The instrumentation generates real time engine power available data for the entire power regime and flight envelope of the aircraft while engine monitoring functions track, record and output performance usage data, trend data, and flight profile data. Generated data is provided to an aircraft flight manual and mission management module that automatically calculates and generates aircraft operational and performance data needed to safely operate the aircraft. The generated data is selectively displayed on flat-panel cockpit displays and/or electronic kneeboard displays in a graphical format that enhances aircrew situational awareness and permits aircrew members to operate the aircraft with its intended margin of safety.

Abstract: An aircraft engine diagnostic apparatus is described. The diagnostic apparatus senses engine performance related parameters refers the data to a standard atmosphere condition and plots values relating to the functions of each engine performance related parameter with respect to other engine performance related parameters. The apparatus compares these actual engine operating parameter values with standard baselines for normal engines and calculates the deviation between the actual curve and the standard curve as referred engine diagnostic data (REDD), an indicator of engine performance condition. The apparatus also senses the direction of deviation of the changing engine parameters from the standard baseline as an additional diagnostic indicator of the probable cause of engine deterioration. The deviation values are then instantaneously provided for immediate diagnosis of engine condition. A method of using the apparatus to diagnose engine problems is also described.