DC Inc

DC Inc. is a specialist provider of high-precision data acquisition and combustion testing solutions for ICE (internal combustion engine)-powered and hybrid UAVs. The company’s solutions allow manufacturers to maximize performance while reducing development costs and time-to-market, and have been trusted by leading drone developers and OEMs. Additional benefits include engine durability, power increase, ability to increase payload, fuel consumption and emissions compliance.

Plex PCA-2000Plus

Portable combustion analysis system for UAV engines

The Plex PCA-2000Plus is a portable combustion analysis system that allows you to gather high-fidelity data from a wide variety of UAV engines, including spark-ignition and compression-ignition types. Ideal for both in-flight and benchtop testing, it is a critical tool for performance optimization and maximizing efficiency.

Featuring the latest advancements in electronics and signal processing, the versatile DAQ system provides cycle-by-cycle, per-cylinder insights with unparalleled accuracy. Supporting 4, 8, or 16 high-speed analog input channels, it is compatible with all piezoelectric and optical pressure sensors as well as virtually any other engine or chassis sensor.

The PCA-2000Plus offers an unparalleled combination of light weight, compact size and ruggedization, making it uniquely suited to the requirements of the drone industry. With a footprint of just 100 x 100 mm and weighing only 250g, it features a robust IP67-rated weatherproof enclosure and shockproof design. In addition, the wiring harnesses incorporate sealed and potted autosport connectors.

Optimized performance for UAV engine manufacturers & platform developers

The Plex PCA-2000Plus’ advanced combustion analysis allows drone OEMs and engine manufacturers to fine-tune the performance and fuel efficiency of any UAV platform no matter the size, ensuring that range and endurance are taken to their full potential while maximizing system reliability.

The compact unit can be easily integrated into any setup, and is lightweight enough to be mounted solely with adhesive or Velcro. If fixed mounting is required, the case also provides three M4x7 threaded holes.

• A built-in multi-constellation GNSS receiver that enables engineers to synchronize combustion parameters with speed, acceleration, and location
• A high-performance IMU that provides acceleration, angular velocity, and orientation data, allowing correlation of engine data with platform dynamics
• A barometric sensor that provides atmospheric pressure measurements for precise correction of calculated engine torque and power based on real-time atmospheric conditions
• Two CANBus 2.0B interfaces with fully configurable receive and transmit functionality
• 1Gbit Ethernet port for seamless real-time data streaming to a PC
• Ultra-fast expandable Flash memory (1GB as standard)

The PCA-2000Plus is also complemented by powerful and intuitive analysis software, providing easy interpretation and visualization of even the most complex data and allowing you to extract vital insights that lead to actionable performance gains.

The system provides real-time measurement and calculation of a wide variety of crucial parameters, including:

• Peak cylinder pressure (Pmax) & crank angle (CA) position
• Maximum rate of pressure rise (dPmax) & crank angle position
• Crank angle range between start and end of combustion
• Volumetric efficiency
• Pre-ignition & misfire
• Torque & power per cylinder
• Knock intensity & max pressure
• Heat release as a function of engine position
• Gross, net & pumping IMEP
• Mass fraction burned / CA50 metrics

Multiple kit options

DC Inc. can provide the PCA-2000Plus as part of user specific ready-to-use kits to suit a range of different development requirements. Harness options of Full and Mini listed below, both harness designs feature the same material and process of quality components and precision manufacturing all harnesses are hi-pot tested.

DC Inc. is partnered with Kistler Instruments providing Industry leading piezoelectric combustion sensors options and charge amplification to complete its turnkey systems. Sensor offerings are M5 x.5 thread face sealing for most applications up to 600 bar. DC Inc. can provide machine tooling and sensor installation tools with industry experience required to accomplish the process.