Autobrake/Anti-Skid System Control Switch

Challenge
To create a control switch for an aircraft automatic braking system designed to activate on touchdown. The braking system determines the amount of braking pressure necessary to enable the aircraft to stop in a given distance or runway length without the tires skidding.

Solution
The result is a specially designed "A" Series Rotary Switch with a solenoid "hold in" latching circuit. A 1 Amp inductive load circuit automatically activates the solenoid as the switch is manually rotated to the desired position to obtain the desired braking force for a specific runway. A momentary spring return feature and an isolation push-to-turn feature are incorporated. Three lower current decks provide signals to the braking system. This control switch is housed in an integrated module assembly and includes an edge-lite panel and front relampable fault indicator.

Airport Runway Lighting Control Switch

Challenge
Create a remote controlled switch to actuate airport/aircraft carrier runway landing lights. This switch turns on and controls the brightness of runway approach lights.

Solution
This JANCO switching system consists of a bi-directional solenoid actuated "A" Series Rotary Switch complete with wire pigtail and connector. Each pulse of a solenoid rotates the switch clockwise or counter clockwise brightening or dimming the runway approach lights. The switch can be controlled from an approaching aircraft cockpit or airport control tower.

Engine Fire Shut-Off Switch

Challenge
Design a multi-function switch module, which when activated will shut off fuel supply to a specific aircraft engine and activate the fire extinguishing system. This module must incorporate numerous safety features to avoid accidental activation.

Solution
The result is a combination of Janco's proven rotary switching mechanisms in a rugged, plug-in module assembly. The fuel flow to the engine is shut off by pulling the shaft to the "out" position actuating a 10 pole snap action "A" Series Rotary Switch. A solenoid operated safety mechanism must be energized or the manual override button pushed before the shaft can be activated. The fire extinguishing material is then released by rotating the shaft and actuating a 2 pole momentary "C" Series Rotary Switch. The switch handle incorporates a hidden legend which is only legible when the 4 incandescent handle lamps are illuminated.

Collision Avoidance System Switch Panel

Challenge
To create a collision avoidance system control panel which allows air traffic control to identify aircraft by receiving a pre-selected coded signal from each aircraft in the vicinity. Envelope size is critical due to limited space, and the design has to allow for access by authorized ground crew personnel only.

Solution
Designed and built to meet the most stringent customer requirements, the resulting switch panel incorporates 22 "EB45" Series Rotary Switches and related components in a single, integrated panel mounting tamper-proof case. Each binary coded rotary switch sets an individual number of a pre-determined code using a unique knob design which allows only the selected number to appear.

Helicopter Engine Start Switch

Challenge
Create a multi-function Helicopter Engine Start Keylock Switch which allows auxiliary functions for maintenance purposes or pre-flight without the use of engine start keys.

Solution
The design resulted in a unique knob and keylock combination using the extensively field-proven JANCO "A" Series, 3 position, 3 pole/deck, 2 deck rotary switch. Deck A controls the engine start function and can be rotated only when the key is inserted. Deck B, which controls the auxiliary functions, can be rotated without the key being inserted. Both decks A and B can be rotated simultaneously by inserting and rotating the key itself and not the knob. The entire switching mechanism is fluxproof to prevent the intrusion of flux during soldering.

Lanyard Pull Pin Switch

Challenge
Devise a switch to activate a drone's electrical systems upon release from an aircraft. The shaft which remains with the aircraft has to be removable from the switch and in doing so actuate a 2 pole non-shorting switch.

Solution
The resulting Lanyard Pull Pin Switch consists of a linear operated switch with the switching characteristics of Mil-S-3786 rotary switches and is comprised of 2 sections. The shaft and lanyard assembly is attached to the aircraft and the switch body resides in the drone. Upon release of the drone from the aircraft, the shaft and switch separate actuating the electrical systems of the drone. The switch utilizes a unique sealing method to protect the electrical switching mechanisms from the environment both with the shaft installed and when the drone is in flight.