The Actuator Control Unit (ACU) governs five servo actuators and one hydraulic actuator that controls the position of the in-air refueling boom. During refueling operations, the ACU operates by providing precise actuator control and motor drive for the ruddevators, hoist, and boom extension and retraction. The system is redundant with the backup unit operating in hot standby, ready to take control for seamless switchover.
The unit employs Curtiss Wright Controls Defense Solutions' software control laws, implemented on a per axis basis, for position control of the left/right ruddevator, hoist, and latch. Control laws are also implemented for the hydraulically controlled boom extension.
The Actuator Control Unit (ACU) governs five servo actuators and one hydraulic actuator that controls the position of the in-air refueling boom. During refueling operations, the ACU operates by providing precise actuator control and motor drive for the ruddevators, hoist, and boom extension and retraction. The system is redundant with the backup unit operating in hot standby, ready to take control for seamless switchover.
