'Unpanel' replaces traditional instruments on new Zenith model

 

The Unpanel leverages Avilution’s core eXtensible Flight System (XFS) product to provide “a flight deck specifically tailored for VFR pilots flying light experimental aircraft,” the company said in a news release.

In the new Zenith aircraft, the Unpanel replaces a traditional instrument panel’s “collection of instruments, controls and small, eye straining displays” with 17 inches of “easy-to-read intuitive interface tailored to the VFR pilot, while integrating an FMS, moving map, integrated audio controls, and much more,” including Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) In and Out, the company said.

With the instrument panel bulkhead removed to accommodate the Unpanel, the freestanding display can be repositioned "for maximum visibility and ease of reach." It is expected to be available as part of a complete avionics package for the Zenith CH-750 Super Duty aircraft by the end of the fourth quarter of 2017, according to the news release.

“With their extensive experience in the Experimental kit aircraft space, Zenith has their pulse on this market—and many of the unusual design features of the Unpanel are inspired by their deep understanding of their customers’ needs,” said Mark Spencer, founder of Avilution. “We can develop all the core avionics software in the world, but it takes a visionary partner like Zenith to transform that technology into such a radically different overall pilot experience, through the rest of the airframe.”

As with the XFS, platform, the Unpanel’s modular hardware and software design allows support from partner products such as the PS Engineering PDA-360XR audio panel, iLevil 3 air data, attitude and heading reference system (ADHRS) with ADS-B In, MGL Engine Management System, uAvionix EchoESX transponder and universal access transceiver for ADS-B Out, and more.

“Avilution’s Unpanel is so revolutionary that we literally designed the new Zenith cockpit around the display,” said Sebastien Heintz, president of Zenith Aircraft Company. “The highly integrated and repositionable display helped us reconfigure the aircraft, adding more utility as well as providing easier access into and out of the plane. We believe the improved visibility makes flying our new airplane even easier and more enjoyable.”

The expected price of $11,995 will include one com radio, ADS-B In and Out, ADAHRS, battery backup, audio panel, antenna, avionics shelf, and premade wiring harness, Avilution said.