airflow angle, static pressure and total pressure probe

Abstract

This invention is entitled "Airflow Angle, Static Pressure, and Total Pressure Probe." The invention discloses a multifunctional atmospheric data probe comprising: a probe rod having an outer surface extending between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein the probe rod has a first cross-sectional diameter; and a probe head having an outer surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the probe head is coupled to the first end of the probe rod. The probe head has a second cross-sectional diameter larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod. A plurality of porous ports are located in the probe head, wherein the porous ports extend into and through the probe rod. The atmospheric data probe is operable to perform measurements for determining one or more of angle of attack, total pressure, and static pressure values.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 916,091, filed October 16, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Safe aircraft operation requires knowledge of the flight environment, including speed, angle of attack, and altitude. This information is typically acquired using externally mounted atmospheric data probes. However, existing atmospheric data probe designs are susceptible to failure due to freezing, bird strikes, and debris and / or insect blockage. This has been observed in recent aircraft accidents, resulting in significant loss of lifespan.

[0004] Therefore, a more robust atmospheric data probe is needed to measure aircraft speed and angle of attack. A simplified atmospheric data architecture to reduce the total cost of ownership is also required. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention discloses a multifunctional atmospheric data probe, comprising: a probe rod having an outer surface extending between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein the probe rod has a first cross-sectional diameter; and a probe head having an outer surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the probe head is coupled to the first end of the probe rod. The probe head has a second cross-sectional diameter larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod. A plurality of porous ports are located in the probe head, wherein the porous ports extend into and through the probe rod. The atmospheric data probe is operable to perform measurements for determining one or more of angle of attack, total pressure, and static pressure values. Attached Figure Description

[0006] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings only illustrate exemplary embodiments and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. The exemplary embodiments will be described with additional features and details by means of the drawings, wherein:

[0007] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is an isometric external view of a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to one implementation scheme;

[0008] Figure 2 This is an enlarged isometric view of one end of the atmospheric data probe in Figure 1;

[0009] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is an isometric internal view of the probe head of the atmospheric data probe in Figure 1.

[0010] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram showing an exemplary vehicle installation location for the atmospheric data probe of Figure 1;

[0011] Figure 5A This is an isometric external view of a multifunctional atmospheric data sensor according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0012] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Front view of the atmospheric data sensor;

[0013] Figure 5C yes Figure 5A Side view of the atmospheric data sensor;

[0014] Figure 5D yes Figure 5A Rear view of the atmospheric data sensor;

[0015] Figure 6 It is a flowchart based on a specific implementation of a method for providing health management and assessment for a multifunctional atmospheric data probe;

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing health management and assessment for a multi-functional atmospheric data probe, according to an exemplary specific implementation; and

[0017] Figure 8 and Figure 9 It is a graphical representation of the sample calibration curve obtained by the multifunctional atmospheric data probe. Detailed Implementation

[0018] In the following detailed description, embodiments are fully described to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting.

[0019] This article describes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe for detecting airflow angle, static pressure, and total pressure.

[0020] An atmospheric data probe typically comprises a probe shaft and a probe head attached to one end of the probe shaft, wherein the diameter of the probe shaft is smaller than the diameter of the probe head. Multiple porous ports are located within the probe head. A bottom flange may be attached to the probe shaft at an opposite end, wherein the bottom flange has one or more hydrostatic ports. The atmospheric data probe is operable to perform measurements used to determine total pressure, hydrostatic pressure, and angle of attack values.

[0021] The probe rod and probe head may each have a substantially cylindrical shape. Optionally, the probe rod and probe head may each include flow stability features on their outer surfaces. In some embodiments, the atmospheric data probe may also include digital components and software algorithms that provide the probe with self-aware health assessment and management capabilities.

[0022] Atmospheric data probes offer the following technical advantages: The probe head shape allows for precise manufacturing, resulting in high-quality probe calibration and pressure measurements. The probe head shape has no sharp edges, making it robust against gripping, erosion, and hail impact damage. The probe head is designed for easy heating to prevent damage from various freezing threats (e.g., supercooled water droplets, ice crystals, rain). Because the probe head is larger than the probe shaft, the influence of spanwise flow on pressure measurements is minimized.

[0023] The porous port in the probe head has the beneficial effect of reducing the impact of defects in each measurement in individual manifold pressure measurements. Furthermore, the porous port is robust against clogging caused by dust, hail, ice, insects, etc. The flow stability feature structure on the probe head and probe rod provides the beneficial effect of minimizing pressure fluctuations caused by tail vortex shedding during use. In one embodiment, the flow stability feature structure consists of matching fins on the left and right sides of the principle structure of the atmospheric data probe, wherein the fins have a substantially triangular cross-sectional profile.

[0024] The atmospheric data probe features a robust design with a circular section, simple radial apertures, no sharp edges around the apertures, and straightforward pressure tube wiring. It also allows for simple heater layout configurations using cables or membranes and offers a hands-free design.

[0025] The atmospheric data probe is designed for accurate measurements. For example, the multiple orifices in each pressure sensor minimize sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances. Furthermore, the critical pressure sensing surface is axisymmetric. When mounted on a vehicle, the probe head is positioned outside the boundary layer and peak ice concentration region.

[0026] The Atmospheric Data Probe (ATP) is capable of performing measurements that can be used to determine (ambient) total pressure (PTamb), (ambient) static pressure (PSamb), and angle of attack (AOA) values. The ATP is configured to provide highly accurate static pressure (PS) and total pressure (PT) measurements that are insensitive to AOA up to approximately ±50°. The ATP is also configured to provide highly accurate AOA measurements up to approximately ±50°.

[0027] In addition, the pressure measurement distribution of the pressure (psi) module in the atmospheric data probe can be compared with the calibration curve to assess the degradation of individual measurements during operation.

[0028] When implemented on vehicles such as aircraft, atmospheric data probes are configured to provide measurements of the aircraft's AOA, static pressure, and total pressure. This enables the calculation of the aircraft's speed, AOA, and altitude for flight control management.

[0029] This atmospheric data probe offers a more easily manufactured and cost-effective design compared to traditional L-shaped or spherical nose / head designs. Its cylindrical design also results in higher accuracy for pressure, altitude, velocity, and AOA (Air-to-Area Response), and it possesses the ability to self-diagnose individual degradations without losing functionality. Combined with avionics, this atmospheric data probe enables real-time monitoring of changes in the aircraft's flight profile to enhance aircraft safety.

[0030] Furthermore, this atmospheric data probe can be implemented in the aircraft's digital field replaceable unit (LRU). The data generated by this atmospheric data probe can reside in the onboard atmospheric data computer or be streamed to a remote server in real time.

[0031] The following section describes various implementation schemes in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An isometric view of a multifunctional atmospheric data probe 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The atmospheric data probe 100 generally includes a probe rod 102, a probe head 104 coupled to the probe rod 102 at one end, and a bottom flange 106 coupled to the probe rod 102 at the opposite end. In one specific embodiment, the probe rod 102 has a substantially cylindrical shape having a first cross-sectional diameter, and the probe head 104 has a substantially cylindrical shape having a second cross-sectional diameter larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod 102.

[0033] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional diameter of the probe tip 104 may be at least about 10% larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod 102. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional diameter of the probe tip 104 may be about 10% to about 100% larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod 102. Furthermore, although the atmospheric data probe 100 is shown as having an abrupt transition between the probe rod 102 and the probe tip 104, in other embodiments, the transition between the probe rod and the probe tip may be more gradual, such as by using a tapered transition section.

[0034] The probe rod 102 has an outer surface 112 extending between a first end 114 and an opposing second end 116. Optionally, a set of flow stabilization structures 118 may protrude from and extend along the outer surface 112 of the probe rod 102, such as... Figure 1AAs shown. The flow stabilization structure 118 facilitates smooth airflow away from the trailing edge of the structure to prevent vortex shedding. In one embodiment, the flow stabilization structure 118 may have a substantially triangular shape.

[0035] The probe rod 102 may have a hollow structure or a solid interior except for the channel, to provide hydrostatic communication with the bottom flange 106.

[0036] The probe head 104 has an outer surface 122 extending between a proximal end 124 and a distal end 126. The proximal end 124 of the probe head 104 is coupled to a first end 114 of the probe rod 102. The outer surface 122 has an array of sensor holes 130 positioned along a portion thereof, such as... Figure 1B As shown. Sensor hole 130 is configured to align with a plurality of multi-hole ports on probe head 104 (described further below).

[0037] The probe head 104 may optionally have a set of flow stabilization structures 132 protruding from and extending along the outer surface 122. The flow stabilization structures 132 are generally aligned with the flow stabilization structure 118 (when present on the probe rod 102). The flow stabilization structures 132 facilitate smooth airflow away from the trailing edge of the structure to prevent vortex shedding. In one embodiment, the flow stabilization structure 132 on the probe head 104 may have a substantially triangular shape.

[0038] The probe head 104 may have a hollow structure or a solid interior except for the channel, to provide hydrostatic communication with the probe rod 102 and the bottom flange 106. An optional vent hole 134 may be located at the distal end 126 of the probe head 104. One or more hydrostatic ports (not shown) may be located in the bottom flange 106.

[0039] Figure 2 This is an enlarged isometric view of one end of the atmospheric data probe 100, showing further details of the probe head 104 coupled to the probe rod 102. In this exemplary embodiment, the array of sensor holes 130 includes a first sensor hole row 130-1, a second sensor hole row 130-2, a third sensor hole row 130-3, a fourth sensor hole row 130-4, and a fifth sensor hole row 130-5. Each of the five sensor hole rows 130-1 to 130-5 includes a plurality of sensor holes 130. Although each sensor hole row is shown as having six holes, it should be understood that in other embodiments, more or fewer holes may be used in each row. Figure 2 Also shown is bar chart 135, which depicts (surface static pressure) / (total free flow pressure) (z_PS_PT_far) from the modeling simulation corresponding to atmospheric data probe 100.

[0040] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is an isometric internal view of the probe head 104. As shown, a plurality of multi-ports 140 are located in the probe head 104 and are configured to extend into and pass through the probe shaft. The multi-ports 140 include a first multi-port 140-1, a second multi-port 140-2, a third multi-port 140-3, a fourth multi-port 140-4, and a fifth multi-port 140-5. Each of the multi-ports 140-1 to 140-5 includes a corresponding sensor manifold fitting 142-1 to 142-5, which are connected to the sensor holes 130-1 to 130-5 respectively through multiple sets of port tubes 144-1 to 144-5. Figure 3A Connect.

[0041] In one example, each of the porous ports 140-1 to 140-5 is connected to a corresponding pressure transducer in the pressure module located within the atmospheric data sensor housing. Porous ports 140-1 to 140-5 advantageously reduce the impact of defects in each of the five individual manifold pressure measurements.

[0042] like Figure 3B As shown, the discharge port 150 is connected in communication to sensor manifold fittings 142-1 to 142-5. The discharge port 150 is connected to the discharge orifice 134. Figure 1A and Figure 1B This provides an outlet for excess air from manifold fittings 142-1 to 142-5.

[0043] Although Figure 3A and Figure 3B The implementation shows five porous ports, but it should be understood that in other implementations, more or fewer such porous ports may be used in the atmospheric data probe as needed to achieve the desired performance of the probe.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary vehicle mounting location for the atmospheric data probe 100. For example, the atmospheric data probe 100 may be mounted on an aircraft 200 in the nose section 202. Figure 4 Also shown is bar chart 210, which depicts the (surface static pressure) / (total free flow pressure) (z_PS_PT_far) from the modeling simulation corresponding to the atmospheric data probe 100 mounted on the aircraft 200.

[0045] The Atmospheric Data Probe 100 is designed to meet PS, PT, and AOA requirements for an AOA range of up to approximately ±50°. PT is calculated directly from the measured static pressure in the probe head. This is achieved by curve fitting the results and calculating the maximum value. AOA is also calculated directly from the static pressure measurement results in the probe head using calibration test results. The combination of the sensor aperture row in the probe head with the static pressure port in the probe bottom flange and / or the aircraft fuselage static pressure port enables the satisfaction of the aircraft's static pressure measurement accuracy requirements.

[0046] The atmospheric data probe 100 can measure static pressure in two different ways: from the pressure value captured through the sensor orifice 130 in the probe head, and from the pressure value captured through a separate static pressure port in the bottom flange 106. It should be noted that the static pressure value measured in the probe head is not the ambient static pressure value. However, the methods described herein can be used to extract the ambient static pressure value, total pressure value, and AOA value from measurements taken at different porous sensor ports in the probe head.

[0047] Figures 5A to 5D Various views of a multifunctional atmospheric data sensor 300 according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. The atmospheric data sensor 300 includes: an atmospheric data probe 310 configured to protrude into an airflow to collect atmospheric data; a base plate 320 for attaching the atmospheric data probe 310 (e.g., to an aircraft fuselage); and a housing 330 coupled to the base plate 320 at a first end of the housing 330. The housing 330 houses electronics (not shown) for interpreting the atmospheric data collected from the atmospheric data probe 310. For example, the housing 330 may house at least one processor and associated memory components.

[0048] like Figure 5C and Figure 5D As shown, a pair of input / output connectors 332, 334 are located at opposite second ends of housing 330. Input / output connectors 332, 334 are configured to provide electrical connections to electronic devices within housing 330.

[0049] The atmospheric data probe 310 may have a structure similar to that of the atmospheric data probe 100 previously described. Thus, the atmospheric data probe 310 typically includes a probe rod 312, a probe head 314 connected to the probe rod 312 at one end, and a bottom flange 316 connected to the probe rod 312 at the opposite end. The bottom flange 316 is connected to a base plate 320, such as by a bolted ring structure 322. The atmospheric data probe 310 is positioned at a first location offset from the center of the base plate 320. A plurality of hydrostatic ports 324 are positioned at a second location on the base plate 320, which is also offset from the center of the base plate 320.

[0050] Atmospheric data probe 310 and static pressure port 324 are operable to perform measurements used by a processor to determine angle of attack, total pressure, and static pressure values. In some embodiments, atmospheric data sensor 300 may be implemented in a digital field replaceable unit (LRU) of a vehicle such as an aircraft. For example, in one specific embodiment, atmospheric data sensor 300 may be installed as part of a digital LRU in the nose section of an aircraft.

[0051] In some specific implementations, multifunctional atmospheric data probes can be combined with digital components and software algorithms that provide atmospheric data probes with the ability to conduct self-aware health assessments and manage their own health.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a specific implementation of a method 400 for providing health management and evaluation for a multi-functional atmospheric data probe. Method 400 initially includes performing a calibration process for the atmospheric data probe before it is installed on a vehicle (box 410). Method 400 also performs an operational process after the atmospheric data probe is installed on the vehicle (box 420). Based on the outputs from the calibration and operational processes, Method 400 calculates the residuals of the individual pressure channels and aggregate response functions of the atmospheric data probe (box 430). Method 400 then stores the residuals and trends their variation over time (box 440), and evaluates the trend lines of the residuals against thresholds (box 450). Method 400 notifies a message indicating that the health of the atmospheric data probe has been compromised when the threshold is exceeded (box 460).

[0053] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating further details of a method 500 for providing health management and evaluation of a multifunctional atmospheric data probe, according to an exemplary specific implementation. Method 500 initially includes a calibration process 510 performed before the atmospheric data probe is mounted on a vehicle such as an aircraft. Calibration process 510 measures or calculates a calibration curve of the new probe's pressure versus AOA (box 512). Calibration process 510 then defines thresholds and associated actions (box 514) and stores the calibration curve and thresholds on the probe itself or on the vehicle on which the probe is mounted (box 516). Specific heat ratio γ is also stored in the same manner (box 518).

[0054] Method 500 also includes an operation 520 of mounting a probe on a vehicle (e.g., an aircraft) and performing it after operation. Operation 520 measures the pressure response and AOA at the ports (e.g., five ports) of the probe during vehicle operation (box 522). Operation 520 then obtains the total pressure (PT) by curve fitting the measured pressure response and calculating the maximum value (box 524). Operation 520 also measures the hydrostatic pressure from a separately flange-positioned static pressure (PS) sensor during vehicle operation (e.g., during flight) (box 526). Operation 520 then normalizes the measured Mach number response using the specific heat ratio (from box 518) (finding a Mach number-independent response) (box 528).

[0055] Method 500 then combines the output from calibration procedure 510 with the output from operation procedure 520 in adder 530. The output from adder 530 is used to calculate the residuals of the individual pressure channels and the aggregate response function (box 532), and the residuals are stored and trended over time (box 534). Method 500 then evaluates the trendline against a threshold defined in calibration procedure 510 (at box 514) (box 536). Method 500 then notifies a message on the digital bus (e.g., ARINC429) when the threshold is exceeded (box 538) indicating that the health of the atmospheric data probe has been compromised.

[0056] Further details regarding the calibration and operation of the atmospheric data probe are as follows.

[0057] In one example, the calibration process can be achieved by calibrating an atmospheric data probe in an open wind tunnel. The calibration process can create a static pressure (PS) orifice calibration (CP) curve for the following exemplary Mach values:

[0058] Mach values ​​= 0.12, 0.26, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 0.95 (estimated range)

[0059] The calibration process then calculates the calibration parameters (CA) for each Mach dataset as a function of AOA. The calibration process calculates the curves of port PS / PT free flow versus Mach free flow, and also calculates the curves of port PS / PS free flow versus Mach free flow.

[0060] In probe measurement mode (operational procedure), the CA value is calculated using the port closest to the highest PS measurement result. AOA is calculated from the average CA calibration (over the entire flight envelope Mach range). This mode curve-fits the port PS and calculates the maximum value, which is used as the first guess for PT. For low Mach values, the Mach value is calculated from the port PS / PT free-flow calibration curve, and the AOA is recalculated using the Mach value to interpolate CA from the calibration curve. For high Mach values, PS is obtained from the probe bottom flange hydrostatic pressure and / or the aircraft hydrostatic pressure, and the Mach value is calculated. The PT free-flow is recalculated using the AOA to interpolate from the port PS / PT calibration curve, and the Mach value is recalculated from the PS / PT free-flow calibration curve. The final Mach value is then calculated from PT and PS.

[0061] The following formulas can be used for calibration procedures and measurement modes:

[0062]

[0063] q c =PT amb -PS amb (2)

[0064]

[0065] P s =C p q c +PS amb (4)

[0066]

[0067] Where C p The difference between static pressure and ambient static pressure is measured as a fraction of the impact pressure; q c For free-flow impact pressure; P s For measuring static pressure; PTemb is the total pressure in the free-flow environment; and PSTemb is the static pressure in the free-flow environment.

[0068] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a graphical representation of the sample calibration curves obtained by the multi-functional atmospheric data probe over an AOA range up to ±50°. In this example, the atmospheric data probe port locations are as follows: Port 1 is at -45° AOA; Port 2 is at -22.5° AOA; Port 3 is at 0.0° AOA; Port 4 is at +22.5° AOA; and Port 5 is at +45° AOA. In this example, five individual pressure measurements performed by the atmospheric data probe allow for the creation of three separate calibration curves to fully span the ±50° range.

[0069] Curves can be generated for Mach values ​​of 0.1, 0.2, ... 1.1 to meet the PT and AOA accuracy requirements of the aircraft. Figure 8 Typical computational fluid dynamics (CFD) or wind tunnel calibration results for a Mach number of 0.12 are shown, and Figure 9 Typical CFD or wind tunnel calibration results for Mach 0.5 are shown. The calibration parameter CA is calculated directly from the direct results. During operation, calibration curves can be used to cross-check individual pressure measurements to diagnose potential blockages and / or pressure module failures.

[0070] The computer or processor used in this system and method may be implemented using software, firmware, hardware, or any suitable combination thereof known to those skilled in the art. These may be supplemented or incorporated therein by specially designed application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field-programmable gate arrays (FGPAs). The computer or processor may also include functions implemented with software programs, firmware, or other computer-readable instructions to perform various processing tasks, computational, and control functions used in this method.

[0071] This method can be implemented using computer-executable instructions (such as program modules or components) that are executed by at least one processor. Typically, program modules include routines, programs, objects, data components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types.

[0072] Various procedural tasks, calculations, and generation instructions used in performing the operations described herein for other data may be implemented in software, firmware, or other computer-readable or processor-readable instructions. These instructions are typically stored on any suitable computer program product, which includes a computer-readable medium for storing computer-readable instructions or data structures. Such a computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or processor or any programmable logic device.

[0073] Suitable processor-readable media may include storage or memory media, such as magnetic or optical media. For example, storage or memory media may include conventional hard disks, optical disks, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, or other optical storage media; volatile or non-volatile media, such as random access memory (RAM); read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, etc.; or any other medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures.

[0074] Exemplary Implementation

[0075] Example 1 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe comprising: a probe rod having an outer surface extending between a first end and an opposing second end, the probe rod having a first cross-sectional diameter; a probe head having an outer surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the probe head is coupled to the first end of the probe rod, wherein the probe head has a second cross-sectional diameter larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod; and a plurality of porous ports located in the probe head, the porous ports extending into and through the probe rod; wherein the atmospheric data probe is operable to perform measurements for determining one or more of an angle of attack value, a total pressure value, and a static pressure value.

[0076] Example 2 includes the multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to Example 1, and further includes a bottom flange connected to the probe rod at an opposite second end; and one or more hydrostatic ports located in the bottom flange.

[0077] Example 3 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 1 to 2, and further includes an exhaust port located at the distal end of the probe head.

[0078] Example 4 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the probe rod and the probe head each have a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0079] Example 5 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the second cross-sectional diameter of the probe head is at least about 10% larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe shaft.

[0080] Example 6 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, and further includes a first set of flow stabilization structures extending along the outer surface of the probe rod; and a second set of flow stabilization structures extending along the outer surface of the probe head.

[0081] Example 7 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to Example 6, wherein a first set of flow stabilization structures and a second set of flow stabilization structures facilitate smooth airflow away from the trailing edge of the structure to avoid vortex shedding.

[0082] Example 8 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 6 to 7, wherein the first set of flow stabilization structures and the second set of flow stabilization structures are matching fins on the left and right sides of the principle structure of the atmospheric data probe, wherein the fins have a substantially triangular cross-sectional profile.

[0083] Example 9 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the outer surface of the probe head includes a sensor aperture array communicating with a porous port in the probe head, the sensor aperture array being arranged in a set of sensor aperture rows.

[0084] Example 10 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to Example 9, wherein each of the multiple ports includes a corresponding sensor manifold fitting, which is connected to one of the sensor hole rows through a corresponding group of multiple port tubes.

[0085] Example 11 includes the multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to Example 10, and further includes an exhaust port connected in communication with a sensor manifold fitting, the exhaust port being configured to provide an outlet for excess air from the manifold fitting.

[0086] Example 12 includes a multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the atmospheric data probe is configured to be mounted on an aircraft.

[0087] Example 13 includes an atmospheric data sensor comprising: a multifunctional atmospheric data probe configured to protrude into an airflow to collect atmospheric data, the atmospheric data probe including a probe rod extending between a first end and an opposing second end, the probe rod having a first cross-sectional diameter; a probe head coupled to the first end of the probe rod, wherein the probe head has a second cross-sectional diameter larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod; a plurality of porous ports in the probe head extending into and through the probe rod; and a bottom flange coupled to the probe rod at an opposing second end. A base plate is coupled to the bottom flange of the atmospheric data probe; and an electronics housing is coupled to the base plate, wherein the electronics housing houses at least one processor. The base plate includes one or more hydrostatic ports extending into the electronics housing. The atmospheric data probe and the one or more hydrostatic ports are operable to perform measurements used by at least one processor to determine one or more of an angle of attack value, a total pressure value, and a hydrostatic pressure value.

[0088] Example 14 includes an atmospheric data sensor according to Example 13, wherein an atmospheric data probe is positioned on a base plate at a first location off-center from the base plate; and one or more static pressure ports are positioned on the base plate at a second location off-center from the base plate.

[0089] Example 15 includes an atmospheric data sensor according to any one of Examples 13 to 14, wherein the atmospheric data sensor is implemented in a digital field replaceable unit (LRU) of the aircraft.

[0090] Example 16 includes a method for health management and evaluation of an atmospheric data probe, the method comprising: performing a calibration process for the atmospheric data probe before it is installed on a vehicle; performing an operation process after the atmospheric data probe is installed on the vehicle; calculating residuals of individual pressure channels and aggregate response functions of the atmospheric data probe based on outputs from the calibration and operation processes; storing and trending the residuals over time; evaluating a trend line of the residuals against one or more thresholds; and issuing a notification message indicating that the health of the atmospheric data probe has been compromised when one or more of the thresholds are exceeded.

[0091] Example 17 includes the method according to Example 16, wherein the calibration process includes: measuring or calculating one or more calibration curves of pressure versus angle of attack (AOA) of an atmospheric data probe; defining one or more thresholds and associated actions; storing one or more calibration curves and one or more thresholds; and storing specific heat ratio.

[0092] Example 18 includes the method according to Example 17, wherein the operation includes: measuring the pressure response of a port in an atmospheric data probe relative to the AOA during vehicle operation; determining the total pressure by curve fitting the measured pressure response of the port and calculating the maximum value; measuring the hydrostatic response from an independently located hydrostatic sensor during vehicle operation; and measuring the response at a normalized Mach number.

[0093] Example 19 includes a method according to any one of Examples 16 to 18, wherein the atmospheric data probe comprises: a probe rod extending between a first end and an opposing second end, the probe rod having a first cross-sectional diameter; a probe head coupled to the first end of the probe rod, wherein the probe head has a second cross-sectional diameter greater than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod; a plurality of porous ports in the probe head extending into and through the probe rod; a bottom flange coupled to the probe rod at an opposing second end; and one or more hydrostatic ports located in the bottom flange; wherein the probe rod and the probe head each have a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0094] Example 20 includes the method according to any one of Examples 16 to 19, wherein the vehicle is an aircraft, and an atmospheric data probe is configured to provide measurements of the aircraft's AOA, static pressure, and total pressure.

[0095] This invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its essential characteristics. The embodiments described are to be regarded in all respects as illustrative rather than restrictive. Therefore, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. All variations within the meaning and scope of the equivalence of the claims are to be covered within its scope.

Claims

1. A multifunctional atmospheric data probe, comprising: A probe rod having an outer surface extending between a first end and an opposing second end, the probe rod having a first cross-sectional diameter; A probe head having an outer surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the probe head is coupled to a first end of the probe rod, wherein the probe head has a second cross-sectional diameter larger than the first cross-sectional diameter of the probe rod. and Multiple multi-ports are located in the probe head and have multiple sensor holes for each of the multiple multi-ports, the multi-ports extending into and through the probe rod; The outer surface of the probe head includes a sensor hole array communicating with the multi-hole port in the probe head, wherein the sensor hole array is arranged in a set of sensor hole rows. Each of the multi-port ports includes a corresponding sensor manifold fitting, and the sensor manifold fitting is connected to one of the sensor hole rows through a corresponding group of multiple port pipes. The atmospheric data probe is operable to perform measurements to determine one or more of the angle of attack, total pressure, and static pressure values.

2. An atmospheric data sensor, comprising: The multifunctional atmospheric data probe of claim 1 is configured to protrude into the airflow to collect atmospheric data; A bottom flange, which is connected to the probe rod at the opposite second end; A base plate, which is connected to the bottom flange of the atmospheric data probe; and An electronic device housing, the electronic device housing being connected to the base plate, the electronic device housing housing at least one processor; The base plate includes one or more hydrostatic ports extending into the housing of the electronic device; The atmospheric data probe and the one or more static pressure ports are operable to perform measurements, used by the at least one processor, to determine one or more of the angle of attack, total pressure, and static pressure values.

3. A method for health management and evaluation of the multifunctional atmospheric data probe according to claim 1, the method comprising: Before the atmospheric data probe is installed on the vehicle, a calibration process for the atmospheric data probe is performed; After the atmospheric data probe is installed on the vehicle, the operation process is performed; Based on the outputs from the calibration process and the operation process, the residuals of the individual pressure channels and the aggregate response function of the atmospheric data probe are calculated; Store the residuals and trend the residuals over time; A trend line is used to evaluate the residuals for one or more thresholds; as well as A notification message is sent when one or more of the thresholds are exceeded, indicating that the health of the atmospheric data probe has been compromised.

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