New TruTrak 2 axis Autopilot system for less than $1000

[nwawingman]

This is a very cool new autopilot that we got a demo of at our last EAA meeting before Oshkosh. Very easy to install and the complete system cost $1000 and weight is about 1lb. Only thing to install is a 21/4 inch round control unit in the panel and a trim tab on one aileron and the elevator. Each trim tab has a mini servo attached to it and about six rivets to attach. There is a three conductor wire that you run from the servo to the controller on the panel. I am planning on installing one of these units and will keep you posted as to my finding. Never thought I would install a autopilot before due to cost and complexity, but this looks just right for me. It is a very cool concept. Here is the news release.

Springdale, AR July 16, 2015- TruTrak Flight Systems is pleased to announce the all new ECO autopilot. The autopilot was created in cooperation with Levil Technologies. ECO (pronounced ēkō) is introductory priced under $1000. An interest list for ECO will be taken beginning July 20, 2015, to coincide with opening day of EAA AirVenture. Shipping of ECO is planned for September 2015.

The ECO is designed to be an affordable, simple, two-axis autopilot with automatic envelope protection (AEP). AEP allows the pilot to set a safe bank angle and pitch angle they wish to fly within. When AEP is armed, the system automatically inputs a light force into the controls to move the aircraft back inside the desired envelope. ECO, instead of attaching to the primary aircraft controls, uses a robust, fast, light-weight servo and tab assembly. This allows for a much lighter weight autopilot system and saves drastically on system cost. Typical complete system install weighs less than one pound.

“The things that we are able to do in the aircraft using such small and light-weight servo tabs are just amazing.” said CEO Andrew Barker “AEP is a wonderful safety feature and the way it works in this system is just incredible.”

Founded in 1999, TruTrak is a leader and innovator in the experimental and light sport aircraft autopilot market. TruTrak has designed and manufactured many cutting edge autopilots including the autopilots in the Virgin Atlantic Global Flyer and most recently Solar Impulse.

http://www.trutrakflightsystems.com

[Darick]

I'd like to see tests for flutter before I'd attach a trim tab to a balanced aileron. Barring this example, it's sounds like a good solution and affordable.

[vhhomer]

I tried to order one of these systems and found out that they won't be available for a Sonex until next year and it will be a $1500 item with the installation kits.