The Active Technology Load Alleviation System (ATLAS) features TACS (Trailing Edge Control Surfaces) that deploy automatically within 100 milliseconds when wing loads exceed 1.5 G to deactivate winglets and reduce wing stress.
This system is designed to dynamically manage wing loads, enhancing structural integrity during high G-load conditions like turbulence or maneuvers.
The aircraft's control panel includes an on/off switch for the ATLAS system and an annunciator light that signals a malfunction or deactivation, prompting the pilot to adhere to specific flight limitations (e.g., slow to 119 knots, keep G-loads below 2 G).
Tamarack's winglets, which integrate with the ATLAS, also contribute to improved aerodynamic performance, such as a lower stall speed and extended ground effect.
Here’s a closer look at the Active Technology Load Alleviation System.
With no load on the wings, the TACS stay aligned with the trailing edge of the wings. The sensors on the wing are only a part of the test airplane and are not components of the system.When loads exceed 1.5 g, the TACS deploy within 100 milliseconds to deactivate the winglet and reduce wing stress. When we hit turbulence turbulent air, the TACS deployed and neutralized quickly. When we imposed loads to the wings through maneuvers, the TACS remained deployed.**The panel of Tamarack’s Cirrus SR22 clearly shows the experimental flight test status of the airplane. There is a G-meter on the left side of the round gauges, a switch to turn the ATLAS system on and off at the bottom right and an annunciator light that comes on if the system is not functioning (or turned off), alerting the pilot to slow to 119 knots and keep the G loads below two G. **While working on the ATLAS STC, Tamarack developed an STC to add an adjustable propeller control to the throttle quadrant. The smoother engine sound during the takeoff and lower noise level with the lower RPM settings in cruise was noticeable. And the ability to reduce the propeller RPM allows pilots to save a few bucks on fuel.Another modification Tamarack has developed for the Cirrus is a cargo conversion that allows for the removal of one or both of the rear seats to increase the useful load and provide more space for luggage. The cost is $1,905 and Tamarack expects STC approval soon.**Tamarack’s winglets add five inches to the wingspan of the Cirrus SR22. During our flight, the airplane stalled at around 56 knots, a few knots below the white arc on the airspeed indicator. At a normal approach speed, the higher aspect ratio also made the airplane stay longer in ground effect. **Marie-Dominique Verdier
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