Includes WXR-2100 'Smart' Weather Radar System

Boeing tells ANN is has chosen Rockwell Collins to supply an entire suite of displays, autopilot, communication, navigation, surveillance, maintenance, emergency and data management systems for its new 747-8 family scheduled to enter service in late 2009.

"This program win is a testament to the successful teamwork approach that we've developed with Boeing," said Kelly Ortberg, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Commercial Systems for Rockwell Collins. "The avionics, which have been selected as standard equipment for all future 747-8 airplanes, will provide advanced technology while maximizing commonality with existing 747-400 fleets."

A key feature of the avionics suite is Rockwell Collins' WXR-2100 MultiScan Hazard Detection System, the same system slated for installation on Boeing's 787 Dreamliner. The system is touted as the first and only radar that analyzes and determines actual weather hazards, not simply atmospheric moisture content.

According to Rockwell, the radar uses multiple radar scans at different tilt angles -- hence MultiScan -- to observe the prevailing weather and store the information into computer memory. The system's processor filters the stored information through a ground clutter suppression algorithm providing pilots with a  view of all significant weather from directly in front of the aircraft to 320 nm, essentially free of ground clutter.

In the images above you can see a radar display with and without ground clutter suppression. The display on the right clearly shows all significant weather that was hidden by the clutter.

"We are excited to have Rockwell Collins on the 747-8 team," said Corky Townsend, chief project engineer, 747 Program. "Rockwell Collins has a long-standing relationship with Boeing and we know they will help us create an airplane that airlines love to operate."

The display system, featuring Rockwell Collins DU-7001 LCD displays, will be upgraded to include many of the advanced features found on the Boeing 777, such as an electronic checklist with cursor control panel, navigation performance scales and vertical situation displays.

Rockwell Collins will add GPS Landing System functionality to the autopilot and navigation systems for Boeing's 747-8 aircraft.

Other equipment Rockwell Collins will provide includes: Communication Management Unit, Satellite Communications System, VHF and HF transceivers, VHF Omnidirectional Radio, Distance Measuring Equipment, Automatic Direction Finder, Multi Mode Receiver, Mode S Transponder, Cockpit Voice Recorder, Flight Data Recorder, Emergency Locator Transmitter, Flight Deck Printer and the Data Management Unit.

Boeing launched the new 747-8 Intercontinental passenger airplane and the 747-8 Freighter on November 14, 2005. Since launch, the program has secured firm orders for 24 747-8 Intercontinentals and 54 747-8 Freighters.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.rockwellcollins.com