PCS v3.6 (Paraplegic Control System)

To design a paraplegic adaptation that allows the paraplegic persons or persons with reduced lower limb functionality to (learn to) fly (again). This system is build by B&F Technic and available as an option on the FK9 ULM.

Design Criteria:

• Anything controlled by legs or feet can be controlled in a manually way, without having to release the controls.

• The system should be ergonomically, esthetical and failsafe.

• Control movements should be logical and intuitive.

• No excessive forces need to be implied to fly the plane.

• The mechanism is purely mechanical & straightforward

• The system can be removed from the FK9 to restore it to
  its standard configuration. (e.g. when it has to be sold again)

• Normal pilots should MAINTAIN the standard controls and
  are never disturbed by the extra paraplegic control system.

• The system does not imply structural changes to the FK9

• The system maintains the standard aerodynamics of the FK9
  Performance & aerodynamics of the airplane remain unchanged

• Minimum weight combined with maximal strength & stiffness.

How it works:
This Paraplegic Control System combines the rudder controls and throttle controls in ONE extra stick that is added in between the two seats in the FK9 cockpit.  The PCS stick is linked to the existing (and still functional) throttle bars and to the rudder pedals. Moving the PCS stick left (right) implies left (right) rudder and moving the PCS stick forward (back) implies full (idle) throttle. The standard brakes are replaced with a manual brakes handle, which is ALSO mounted on the PCS stick. In this way the Paraplegic Pilot can control in a very logical way the rudder, the throttle and the brakes with the right hand while he uses his left hand to control the flight stick (ailerons & elevator). The normal pilot uses the standard rudder pedals and the standard throttle bars underneath the instrument panel.