A boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator

Abstract

The application discloses a boarding bridge and control system of a flight simulator, which comprises a boarding bridge platform, an electrical control cabinet, a folding guardrail mechanism, a bridge body and a detection device, wherein the boarding bridge platform is assembled by a bottom support, a stand, a control cabinet mounting frame, a supporting leg, a connecting plate, a platform and a platform guardrail through bolts; the electrical control cabinet internally comprises a PLC controller, a circuit breaker, a contactor, a frequency converter, a connector and a button switch, so as to realize the collection, processing and motion execution of the boarding bridge control signal of the position state monitoring, external control information and bridge safety information of the boarding bridge and the motion platform controller; the folding guardrail mechanism 3 is a pure mechanical structure, which is assembled by a small bearing seat, a connecting rod, a connecting piece, a short connecting rod and a long connecting rod through bearings, wear-resistant pads and pin shafts, and can realize automatic folding and unfolding according to the lifting of the bridge surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of aerospace engineering technology, specifically relating to a boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator. Background Technology

[0002] Flight training simulators have unique advantages such as safety, economy, controllability, repeatability, risk-free operation, and no limitations imposed by weather conditions or site space. They can be used for both routine operational training and special handling training for various accidents (including catastrophic accidents).

[0003] A boarding bridge needs to be designed between the jet bridge and the simulator to facilitate the entry and exit of trainees from the flight simulator. The boarding bridge must be retracted before the flight simulator's motion system is activated to prevent collisions and potential hazards. Currently, most simulator boarding bridges have the following problems: 1. Multiple control handles exist on the boarding bridge, both on-board and in the instructor's control room. Control of the boarding bridge involves sending information through the motion platform software and the operator, with signal priority implemented via software, posing certain safety risks; 2. Boarding bridges are specifically designed for different simulator models, failing to provide universal functionality for various simulator types; 3. The control logic is too complex, reducing software reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator, addressing the aforementioned technical deficiencies.

[0005] This invention provides a boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator. The boarding bridge structure mainly includes a boarding bridge platform, a control cabinet, a folding guardrail mechanism, a bridge body structure, and a detection device. Its key features are: all components of the boarding bridge platform are assembled using bolts, facilitating installation and transportation; the control cabinet is placed on the side of the boarding bridge platform for easy observation of the boarding bridge status while operating the control cabinet; the folding guardrails achieve their folding function entirely through a mechanical structure, ensuring high reliability; the bridge body structure is welded from aluminum profiles or angle steel and can be cut to suit different applications; the limit switches within the detection device are all installed at the bottom of the boarding bridge body, eliminating the need for external installation and reducing installation complexity. Furthermore, this boarding bridge features both automatic and manual control modes, and based on its interface design logic with interconnecting equipment, it can be applied to various situations.

[0006] The entire boarding bridge is installed in front of the simulator's entrance and exit, and is L-shaped. When needed, the boarding bridge is lowered and connected to the simulator via the electrical control cabinet or motion platform software. Before the motion platform moves, the boarding bridge is raised via the electrical control cabinet or motion platform software to avoid interference with the simulator and potential danger.

[0007] The boarding bridge platform includes a bottom support, columns, a control cabinet mounting bracket, support legs, connecting plates, a platform, platform railings, a control box, and alarm lights.

[0008] The bottom support is assembled from I-beams or U-shaped steel using bolts, which facilitates transportation and installation.

[0009] Furthermore, the length of the aforementioned bottom support can be adapted or removed according to the width of the trench below.

[0010] The column is composed of four U-shaped steel bars; the bottom of the column is fixed to the bottom bracket with bolts to provide support for the boarding bridge body, electrical control cabinet and other components;

[0011] The height of the column can be adapted to meet site requirements.

[0012] The control cabinet mounting frame is made of sheet metal folded together; the control cabinet mounting frame is folded into a U-shape and fixed to the side of the column with bolts; the control cabinet mounting frame is designed with an electrical control cabinet mounting hole in the middle to facilitate fixing the electrical control cabinet with bolts.

[0013] Furthermore, all mounting holes on the control cabinet mounting bracket are designed as oblong holes, which helps to eliminate errors in the processing and installation of the column and facilitates later installation.

[0014] The control cabinet mounting bracket is installed at a height of approximately 1.5m above the ground for easy operation.

[0015] Even better, the upper part of the column platform is fixed to the building body with bolts to enhance the overall stability of the column platform;

[0016] The support leg consists of two sections, welded together from U-shaped steel or I-beams. The support leg is fixed to two of the uprights with bolts. The section of the support leg that contacts the ground is secured with chemical anchors. The support leg serves two main functions: first, to provide support for the boarding bridge to prevent swaying during ascent and descent; and second, to provide an overlapping section for the two uprights during installation.

[0017] The main function of the connecting plate is to connect the four columns together to make them a whole; the connecting plate can be made by folding sheet metal or cutting steel plate.

[0018] The motor mounting base is made of U-shaped steel and is bolted to the column; the side of the motor mounting base has motor mounting holes, including at least one positioning hole, and the motor bearing housing is fixed to the motor mounting base by a shaft, and then tightened by bolts.

[0019] Even better, the mounting surface of the motor mounting base is at 90° to the electric cylinder actuator, which vertically transmits the force of the electric cylinder to the electric cylinder support base, preventing the electric cylinder bearing housing and the motor mounting base from becoming tight during long-term operation, thus increasing safety.

[0020] The platform is fixed to the column by screws using a thin steel plate; the platform has reinforcing ribs at the bottom.

[0021] Furthermore, the upper surface of the platform has a fishtail pattern or stripes to prevent slipping and dangerous situations.

[0022] Furthermore, steps can be designed on the platform according to the height of the assembled building structures;

[0023] The platform railing is made of aluminum material; the upper part of the platform railing is designed with a thin plate, which serves as a safety protection measure and can also be sprayed or pasted with equipment or company logos.

[0024] The emergency stop control box is mounted on the platform railing with screws; a two-position hold push-button switch is installed on the emergency stop control box. When a dangerous situation occurs, the operator presses the switch and the boarding bridge stops in the current state and does not move.

[0025] The alarm light is red, green, and yellow; the alarm light is installed above the emergency stop control box; the green light is on when the boarding bridge program is fault-free and the boarding bridge is stationary; the yellow light is on when the boarding bridge program is normal and the boarding bridge is rising or falling; and the red light is on when the boarding bridge program reports an error or the boarding bridge is given an emergency stop signal.

[0026] The folding guardrail mechanism is a linkage mechanism, including a small bearing seat, a connecting rod, a connector, a short connecting rod, and a long connecting rod. Utilizing the principle of parallel sides of a parallelogram, the automatic folding and unfolding of the boarding guardrail is achieved through a fully mechanical hardware mechanism. The small bearing seat is installed on the side of the aforementioned column and is connected to the connector via the connecting rod. The bottom of the short connecting rod is equipped with a shaft that connects to a bearing on the side of the bridge. When the boarding bridge is raised, the short and long connecting rods fold under the pull of the connecting rod; when the boarding bridge is lowered, the short and long connecting rods unfold under the push of the connecting rod.

[0027] The short connecting rod and the long connecting rod are connected by a pin structure, and anti-wear pads are added on both sides to reduce the friction of the pin structure;

[0028] Even better, the links of the folding armrest are connected by bearings; furthermore, the bearings of each armrest link are connected by a flat thrust ball bearing to prevent the armrest from wobbling during use.

[0029] The bridge structure includes a central bearing housing, bridge body, bridge deck, and grating sensors; providing a walking passage for personnel.

[0030] The bearing housing is installed on the side of the column. When the bearing housing is installed with the column, a pin is required to reduce the shearing force of the fastening bolts and ensure safety.

[0031] The bridge structure is assembled from aluminum profiles using T-bolts and flange nuts. The exterior of the bridge structure is covered with aluminum plates or composite plastic panels to enhance its aesthetics. The side of the bridge structure is printed with the equipment or company logo. One end of the bridge structure is connected to the column platform via a bearing.

[0032] Even better, the bridge body can be made of a lighter material, which helps to reduce the load on the motor;

[0033] The bridge deck is made of steel plates fixed to the bridge structure with screws; the surface of the bridge deck has fishtail or striped patterns to increase friction and prevent slipping and falling.

[0034] When the boarding bridge is in a horizontal position, the other end of the bridge body is attached to the overlapping platform of the simulator's rear chamber, at which point the boarding bridge body forms a simply supported beam.

[0035] The grating sensors are installed on both sides of the bridge body at a height of 2cm above the bridge surface to detect whether there are objects or people on the bridge surface;

[0036] Optical grating sensors are installed on both sides of the bridge to monitor the safety of the bridge surface. When there are foreign objects on the bridge surface, the optical grating sensors send a signal to the electrical control cabinet, and the boarding bridge cannot be raised.

[0037] The detection device includes a large bearing seat, a support tripod, a limit switch, a hydraulic rod, an actuator, and a bridge deck support seat;

[0038] The large bearing housing and supporting tripod are bolted to the side of the above-mentioned column; they are mainly used to provide the boarding bridge with functions such as installation, testing, and signal acquisition for retraction / extension movements.

[0039] The upper part of the supporting tripod has a hollow structure to facilitate the installation of limit switches; the supporting tripod is made of steel to ensure the structural safety of the tripod.

[0040] The mounting holes for the supporting tripod are oblong, which allows for height adjustment when installed on the column, thereby adjusting the levelness of the boarding bridge deck.

[0041] The main functions of the supporting tripod are: 1) to provide the lowest structural support for the boarding bridge structure; 2) to provide installation space for the limit switches;

[0042] Furthermore, as a load-bearing component of the boarding bridge, the supporting tripod can be first fixed with a pin before using bolts to fix the bracket to the column during installation. This prevents the bracket from sliding down during use due to insecure bolt fixing.

[0043] There are a total of 6 limit switches: 2 upper limit stop switches, 2 lower limit stop switches, 1 upper limit speed change switch, and 1 lower limit speed change switch. The 2 upper limit stop switches and 2 lower limit stop switches are redundant designs to prevent damage to the boarding bridge structure due to signal failure if the limit switches are damaged. The 1 upper limit speed change switch and 1 lower limit speed change switch are mainly used to send speed change signals to the motor for acceleration and deceleration functions during boarding bridge operation, thereby reducing the boarding bridge's running time.

[0044] One end of the hydraulic rod is mounted on the connecting plate of the column through a bearing seat, and the other end is mounted on the lower part of the bridge structure through a bearing. The hydraulic rod provides support to the boarding bridge to prevent motor failure during operation and to maintain the boarding bridge in its current state.

[0045] The actuator consists of a stepper motor and a ball screw; the motor's rotation speed is controlled by controlling the time interval of the sent pulses; the ball screw has a reverse self-locking function, so that if the electric cylinder is de-energized during the boarding bridge's retraction process, the boarding bridge will not fall, thus preventing injury to equipment and personnel; the actuator is mounted on the housing via bearings; the output end of the actuator is mounted on the bridge via a hinge.

[0046] The hardware installation sequence of the boarding bridge is as follows: 1. Install the bottom support of the boarding bridge; 2. Install the uprights, connecting plates, support legs, etc. of the boarding bridge; 3. Install the bearings, support tripods, and limit switches in their respective positions; 4. Install the boarding bridge body onto the boarding bridge upright platform using a gantry crane via bearings; 5. Adjust the distance between the boarding bridge and the simulator, and fix the boarding bridge upright platform to the ground with chemical bolts; 6. Install the actuator, folding guardrail mechanism, emergency stop control box, and other components.

[0047] This invention provides a boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator. The control system mainly consists of an electrical control cabinet, actuators, and limit switches. All internal and external signals of the boarding bridge are processed and responded to through a program within the control cabinet.

[0048] The electrical control cabinet is installed on the side of the column platform; the electrical control cabinet is equipped with status indicator lights and an emergency stop button; the status indicator lights include an up indicator light, an up-to-position indicator light, a down indicator light, and a down-to-position indicator light; the emergency stop button is a two-position press button with a self-locking switch;

[0049] The electrical control cabinet contains a PLC controller, circuit breakers, contactors, frequency converters, connectors, and push-button switches. The boarding bridge and the motion platform have an interlock function to protect both in case of misoperation.

[0050] The electrical control cabinet contains a manual / automatic mode switch, "ascend," "descend," and "fault clear" control buttons. The cabinet is locked and should not be opened under normal circumstances to prevent accidental activation. The only external button is the "emergency stop" button, with one installed on the outside of the cabinet, one in the control room, and one next to the tri-color indicator light on the boarding bridge. There are no other external control buttons outside the cabinet to prevent accidental operation. Inside the electrical control cabinet, the PLC control program displays the real-time operating status of the boarding bridge using indicator lights, including ascent, ascent complete, descent, and descent complete signals. Four indicator lights are grouped together, with one group installed inside the simulator's rear compartment, one on the instructor's control console below the simulator, and one on the electrical control cabinet. One tri-color indicator light is installed on the instructor's control console above the simulator, one on the instructor's control console below the simulator, and one on the boarding bridge platform to display the current operating status of the boarding bridge in real time.

[0051] The "Manual / Automatic" switch is used to switch the control mode of the boarding bridge. In the "Manual" position, the boarding bridge can only be raised and lowered using the "Up" and "Down" buttons in the electrical control cabinet. In the "Automatic" position, the boarding bridge can only be controlled using the motion platform. The "Fault Clear" button is used to restore the PLC control program. After a fault occurs, pressing this button will initialize the PLC control program and thus clear the fault.

[0052] In the above modes, under automatic mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to rise is as follows: the boarding bridge can only rise if all of the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is in its lowest position, the mode switch is in automatic mode, the boarding bridge is on safety, the boarding bridge is at its lower limit, and all safety doors are closed. If any one of these conditions is not met, the boarding bridge will not rise, regardless of whether it receives a rise signal.

[0053] In the above modes, under automatic mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to descend is as follows: the boarding bridge can only descend if all of the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is at its lowest position, the mode switch is in automatic mode, the boarding bridge is at its upper limit position, and all safety doors are closed. If any one of these conditions is not met, the boarding bridge will not descend, regardless of whether it receives a descent signal.

[0054] In the above modes, under manual mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to rise is as follows: the boarding bridge can only rise if all of the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is at its lowest position, the mode switch is in manual mode, the boarding bridge is secure, the boarding bridge is not at its upper limit position, and all safety doors are closed. If any one of these conditions is not met, the boarding bridge will not rise, regardless of whether it receives a rise signal.

[0055] In the above modes, under manual mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to descend is as follows: the boarding bridge can only descend if the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is at its lowest position, the mode switch is in manual mode, the boarding bridge is not at its lower limit position, and all safety doors are closed. If any of these conditions are not met, the boarding bridge will not descend, regardless of whether it receives a descent signal.

[0056] The boarding bridge controller PLC and the motion platform control cabinet transmit signals via dry contact points, all of which are normally open, for a total of 9 channels. The boarding bridge controller PLC sends 5 signals to the motion platform control cabinet: "manual / automatic" mode, upper limit, lower limit, door limit, and safety light curtain signals. The motion platform control cabinet sends 4 signals to the boarding bridge controller PLC: up, down, alarm, and minimum position signals.

[0057] The logic for transmitting each piece of information is as follows:

[0058] 1) When the motion platform is at its lowest position, it sends a signal to the boarding bridge;

[0059] 2) When the motion platform sends "ascend" or "descend", it outputs one signal respectively, and the three-color lights of the boarding bridge turn yellow; when a fault occurs, the "alarm" switch closes and outputs one signal, the three-color lights of the boarding bridge turn red, and the boarding bridge stops and locks itself in an emergency. If no control signal is received, the light turns green.

[0060] 3) When the "Mode" switch is normally open, it is in "Automatic" mode; when the "Mode" switch is closed, it is in "Manual" mode. This switch is a two-position "Toggle switch".

[0061] 4) The manual control mode of the boarding bridge will only be effective when the "lowest position" switch of the motion platform is closed and the "mode" switch of the operation is closed; otherwise, manual operation will be ineffective.

[0062] 5) After the motion platform receives the “mode” closing signal (manual mode) sent by the boarding bridge, the “ascend” or “descend” signal sent by the motion platform to control the boarding bridge is invalid until the “mode” switch is turned off (automatic mode) before the boarding bridge can be controlled.

[0063] 6) If the "lowest position" signal from the motion platform is not in the closed state (whether due to power failure or other reasons), the "manual" mode of the boarding bridge is invalid, which is a violation of the rules, and the three-color indicator light on the boarding bridge will turn red.

[0064] 7) The boarding bridge can only ascend or descend when it receives a signal from the "lowest position" switch of the motion platform.

[0065] 8) When the boarding bridge is in "automatic" mode, and the motion platform controls the boarding bridge to rise / fall, you can manually switch to "manual" mode. The boarding bridge will then be in the "current" position and in a self-locking state (the boarding bridge motor has a power-off self-locking function). The raising and lowering can only be manually controlled by operating the buttons in the control cabinet.

[0066] 9) The boarding bridge controller transmits the collected sensor signals to the motion platform in real time via dry contacts, including the boarding bridge's "upper limit," "lower limit," "gate limit," and "safety light curtain." When there is someone on the boarding bridge (i.e., the safety light curtain is closed), the boarding bridge controller cannot move, regardless of whether it receives an "up" signal from the motion platform.

[0067] Based on the above design, the electrical control cabinet logic can achieve the following functions:

[0068] 1) Boarding bridge lifting function

[0069] The bridge deck is raised in a controlled manner by clicking the "Up" button inside the boarding bridge control box or by receiving an external "Up" signal from the PLC control program.

[0070] 2) Boarding bridge raising function

[0071] The boarding bridge is raised in a controlled manner. After the bridge deck is raised to the maximum position, the limit switch of the raised position is triggered, which makes the boarding bridge stop moving automatically.

[0072] 3) Emergency stop function for boarding bridge as it rises

[0073] When the boarding bridge deck is being raised, clicking the "Emergency Stop" button on the boarding bridge control box panel or receiving an external "Emergency Stop" signal from the PLC control program will stop the bridge deck from moving and keep it in a self-locking stationary state.

[0074] 4) Boarding bridge descent function

[0075] The bridge deck is lowered in a controlled manner by clicking the "lower" button inside the boarding bridge control box or by receiving an external "lower" signal from the PLC control program.

[0076] 5) Boarding bridge descent function

[0077] The boarding bridge is controlled to "descend". After the bridge surface descends to the maximum position, the descent limit switch is triggered, causing the boarding bridge to stop moving automatically.

[0078] 6) Emergency stop function for boarding bridge descent

[0079] When the boarding bridge deck is descending, clicking the "Emergency Stop" button on the boarding bridge control box panel or receiving an external "Emergency Stop" signal from the PLC control program will stop the bridge deck's movement and keep it in a self-locking stationary state.

[0080] 7) Three-color indicator light function on the boarding bridge

[0081] When the motion platform sends "ascend" or "descend", the three-color light on the boarding bridge turns yellow. When a malfunction occurs, the "alarm" switch closes and the three-color light on the boarding bridge turns red. If no control signal is received, the light turns green.

[0082] 8) Manual / automatic switching function

[0083] The boarding bridge control cabinet is equipped with an automatic / manual switching switch, which can realize automatic and manual control according to actual needs;

[0084] 9) Emergency stop cancellation function

[0085] In automatic and manual modes, the boarding bridge remains in a self-locking state after the emergency stop button is released. Clicking the up or down button will allow the boarding bridge to continue operating.

[0086] 10) Safety limit function

[0087] The soft and mechanical limits are connected in parallel. When the boarding bridge reaches its maximum or minimum position, both limits are triggered simultaneously, stopping the bridge in its final position. This dual-layer limit system compensates for the failure of a single limit switch, greatly improving system safety.

[0088] 11) Safety light curtains and safety interlocks are installed on both sides of the boarding bridge deck.

[0089] The boarding bridge is equipped with a bridge surface sensing system. When someone stands on the bridge surface, the bridge surface sensing system will detect the person and send the detection signal back to the boarding bridge control system. At this time, the boarding bridge cannot start the lifting procedure to ensure the safety of personnel.

[0090] 12) Boarding bridge positioning interlock function

[0091] The boarding bridge has electrical interfaces with the motion platform and the building structure to protect the boarding bridge and motion platform in case of misoperation.

[0092] This system has the following beneficial effects:

[0093] 1. Compared to existing boarding bridges, this boarding bridge has a higher degree of modularity, making it easier to transport and assemble, and requiring less sophisticated electric cylinders;

[0094] 2. This boarding bridge control system is simple, low-cost, safe, and reliable;

[0095] 3. All sensors on this boarding bridge are installed inside the main body, forming a self-contained unit with good independence;

[0096] 4. This boarding bridge has a wide range of applications and can be installed in various occasions where boarding equipment needs to be deployed and retracted. Attached Figure Description

[0097] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the accompanying drawings required in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0098] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the boarding bridge provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the boarding bridge platform structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a boarding bridge detection device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the folding guardrail structure of the boarding bridge provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the boarding bridge structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the boarding bridge control cabinet panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical control interconnection of the boarding bridge provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] Figure 8 This is a logic diagram for controlling the raising of the boarding bridge in automatic mode, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Figure 9 This is a logic diagram for controlling the descent of the boarding bridge in automatic mode, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Figure 10 This is a logic diagram for controlling the raising of the boarding bridge in manual mode, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Figure 11 This is a logic diagram for controlling the descent of the boarding bridge in manual mode, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] Figure 12 The schematic diagram of the PLC control program for the boarding bridge provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Figure 13 Input principle of PLC control program for boarding bridge provided in embodiments of the present invention Figure 1 .

[0111] Figure 14 Input principle of PLC control program for boarding bridge provided in embodiments of the present invention Figure 2 .

[0112] Figure 15 The schematic diagram of the PLC control program output for the boarding bridge provided in this embodiment of the invention.

[0113] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0114] 1. Boarding bridge platform; 2. Electrical control cabinet; 3. Folding guardrail mechanism; 4. Bridge structure; 5. Detection device; 101. Bottom support; 102. Column; 103. Control cabinet mounting bracket; 104. Support leg; 105. Small connecting plate; 106. Large connecting plate; 107. Motor mounting base; 108. Platform; 109. Platform guardrail; 110. Emergency stop control box; 111. Alarm light; 301. Small bearing seat; 302. Connecting rod; 303. Connector; 304. Shaft; 305. Short connecting rod; 306. Long connecting rod; 401. Middle bearing seat; 402. Bridge body; 403. Bridge deck; 404. Grating sensor; 501. Large bearing seat; 502. Support tripod; 503. Limit switch; 504. Hydraulic rod; 505. Actuator; 506. Bridge deck support seat. Detailed Implementation

[0115] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0116] Reference Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of a boarding bridge for a flight simulator provided by the present invention. The boarding bridge structure mainly includes: a boarding bridge platform 1, a control cabinet 2, a folding guardrail mechanism 3, a bridge body 4, and a detection device 5.

[0117] Reference Figure 2 The boarding bridge platform 1 is composed of a bottom support 101, a column 102, a control cabinet mounting bracket 103, a support leg 104, a small connecting plate 105, a large connecting plate 106, a motor mounting base 107, a platform 108, a platform guardrail 109, an emergency stop control box 110, and an alarm light 111.

[0118] The bottom support 101 is assembled from four U-shaped steel bars with screws and fixed to the ground with chemical bolts.

[0119] The column 102 is composed of 4 U-shaped steel bars; the bottom of the column 102 is fixed to the bottom bracket 101 by bolts to provide support for the boarding bridge, electrical control cabinet and other components;

[0120] The control cabinet mounting frame 103 is made of sheet metal folding; the control cabinet mounting frame 103 is folded into a U-shape and fixed to the side of the column with bolts; the control cabinet mounting frame 103 is designed with mounting holes for the electrical control cabinet 2 in the middle, so as to facilitate fixing the electrical control cabinet 2 with bolts;

[0121] The control cabinet mounting bracket 103 is installed at a height of about 1.5m above the ground, which facilitates personnel operation;

[0122] All mounting holes on the control cabinet mounting bracket 103 are designed as oblong holes.

[0123] The support leg 104 consists of two legs, welded together from U-shaped steel or I-beams. The support leg 104 is fixed to two of the uprights 102 by bolts. The part of the support leg 104 that contacts the ground is fixed to the ground with chemical anchors. The support leg 104 has two main functions: first, to provide support for the boarding bridge to prevent swaying during ascent and descent; second, to provide an overlapping area for the two uprights 102 during installation, facilitating installation.

[0124] There are five small connecting plates 105 in total, which connect the columns 102 in the front and rear directions together;

[0125] There are four large connecting plates 106 in total, which connect the left and right columns 102 together;

[0126] The motor mounting base 107 is an improvement on the large connecting plate 106; it is mounted on the column 102 by bolts using U-shaped steel; the motor mounting base 107 has mounting holes for the actuator 505 on its side, including at least one positioning hole, and the large bearing seat 501 of the motor is fixed to the motor mounting base 107 by a shaft, and then tightened by bolts.

[0127] The platform 108 is made of 2mm thin steel plate and fixed to the column 102 with screws; the platform 108 has reinforcing ribs at the bottom to enhance stability; the upper surface of the platform 108 has a fishtail pattern or stripes.

[0128] The platform guardrail 109 is made of aluminum material; the upper part of the platform guardrail 109 is designed with a thin plate, which serves as a safety protection measure and can also be sprayed or pasted with equipment or company logos.

[0129] The emergency stop control box 110 is mounted on the platform railing 109 with screws; a two-position hold-press switch is installed on the emergency stop control box 110.

[0130] The warning light 111 is installed above the emergency stop control box 110;

[0131] Reference Figure 4 The folding guardrail mechanism 3 is a linkage mechanism, including a small bearing seat 301, a connecting rod 302, a connector 303, a shaft 304, a short connecting rod 305, a long connecting rod 306, etc.

[0132] The small bearing seat 301 is installed on the side of the column 102 and is connected to the connector 303 via the connecting rod 302; the bottom of the short connecting rod 305 is equipped with a shaft 304, which is connected to the bearing on the side of the bridge structure 4. When the boarding bridge is raised, the short connecting rod 305 and the long connecting rod 306 are folded under the pull of the connecting rod 302; when the boarding bridge is lowered, the short connecting rod 305 and the long connecting rod 306 are unfolded under the push of the connecting rod 302.

[0133] The short connecting rod 305 and the long connecting rod 306 are connected by a pin structure, and anti-wear pads are added on both sides;

[0134] Reference Figure 5 The bridge structure 4 includes a central bearing seat 401, a bridge body 402, a bridge surface 403, and a grating sensor 404;

[0135] The bearing housing 401 is installed on the side of the column 102. When the bearing housing 401 is installed on the column 102, a pin is required to reduce the shearing force of the fastening bolt and ensure safety.

[0136] The bridge body 402 is made of aluminum profiles and assembled with T-bolts and flange nuts; the exterior of the bridge body 402 is wrapped with aluminum plates or composite plastic plates to enhance its aesthetics; the side of the bridge body 402 is printed with the logo of the equipment or company; one end of the bridge body 402 is connected to the column 102 platform through a bearing 401.

[0137] The bridge deck 403 is made of 2mm steel plate and fixed to the bridge body 402 with screws; the surface of the bridge deck 403 has fishtail or striped patterns to increase friction and prevent slipping and falling.

[0138] The grating sensor 404 is installed on both sides of the bridge body 402 at a height of 2cm from the bridge surface 403;

[0139] Reference Figure 3The detection device 5 includes a large bearing seat 501, a support tripod 502, a limit switch 503, a hydraulic rod 504, an actuator 505, and a bridge deck support seat 506.

[0140] The large bearing seat 501 and the supporting tripod 502 are bolted to the side of the column 102.

[0141] The upper part of the supporting tripod 502 has a hollow structure, and a limit switch 503 is installed therein; the supporting tripod 502 is made of steel to ensure the structural safety of the tripod 502.

[0142] The mounting holes of the supporting tripod 502 are oblong holes, which facilitate height adjustment when installed on the column 102, thereby adjusting the levelness of the boarding bridge deck 403;

[0143] When the support tripod 502 is installed with the boarding bridge column 102 as a boarding bridge, it can be fixed with a pin first, and then bolts can be used to fix the support tripod 502 to the column 102 to prevent the support tripod 502 from sliding down during use due to the bolts not being securely fixed.

[0144] There are a total of 6 limit switches 503, namely 2 upper limit stop switches, 2 lower limit stop switches, 1 upper limit speed change switch, and 1 lower limit speed change switch. The 2 upper limit stop switches and 2 lower limit stop switches are redundant designs to prevent damage to the boarding bridge structure due to the inability to send signals after the limit switches are damaged. The 1 upper limit speed change switch and 1 lower limit speed change switch are mainly used to send speed change signals to the motor for acceleration and deceleration functions during the operation of the boarding bridge, thereby reducing the running time of the boarding bridge.

[0145] One end of the hydraulic rod 504 is mounted on the connecting plate 107 of the column 102 via the bearing seat 501, and the other end is mounted on the lower part of the bridge body 402 via the bearing. The hydraulic rod 504 provides support force to the boarding bridge to prevent motor failure during operation and to provide support force to keep the boarding bridge in its current state.

[0146] The actuator 505 consists of a stepper motor and a ball screw; the motor's rotation speed is controlled by controlling the time interval of the sent pulses; the ball screw has a reverse self-locking function, so that if the electric cylinder is de-energized during the boarding bridge's retraction process, the boarding bridge will not fall, thus preventing injury to equipment and personnel; the actuator 505 is mounted on the housing via bearings; the output end of the actuator 505 is mounted on the bridge body 402 via the bridge deck support 506;

[0147] The hardware installation sequence of the boarding bridge is as follows: 1. Install the bottom support 101 of the boarding bridge; 2. Install the uprights 102, small connecting plates 105, large connecting plates 106, support legs 104, etc. of the boarding bridge; 3. Install the bearings 301 / 401 / 501, support tripods 502, limit switches 503, etc., into their respective positions; 4. Using a gantry crane, install the boarding bridge body 402 onto the boarding bridge upright platform 102 via bearings; 5. Adjust the distance between the boarding bridge and the simulator, and fix the boarding bridge upright platform 1 to the ground with chemical bolts; 6. Install the actuator 506, folding guardrail mechanism 3, emergency stop control box 110, and other components.

[0148] Reference Figures 6-15 This invention provides a boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator. The control system mainly consists of an electrical control cabinet 2, actuators 505, and limit switches 503. All internal and external signals of the boarding bridge are processed and responded to through a program within the control cabinet.

[0149] The electrical control cabinet 2 is installed on the side of the column platform 1; the electrical control cabinet 2 is equipped with status indicator lights and an emergency stop button on the outside; the status indicator lights include an up indicator light, an up-to-position indicator light, a down indicator light, and a down-to-position indicator light; the emergency stop button is a two-position press button with a self-locking switch;

[0150] The electrical control cabinet contains a PLC control program, circuit breakers, contactors, frequency converters, connectors, and push-button switches. The boarding bridge and the motion platform have an interlock function to protect both in case of misoperation.

[0151] Reference Figure 7 The electrical control cabinet contains a manual / automatic switch, an "ascend," an "ascend," and a "fault clear" control button. The cabinet is locked and should not be opened under normal circumstances to prevent accidental activation. The only external button is the "emergency stop" button, with one installed on the outside of the cabinet, one in the control room, and one next to the tri-color indicator light on the boarding bridge. There are no other external control buttons outside the cabinet to prevent accidental operation. Inside the electrical control cabinet, the PLC control program displays the real-time operating status of the boarding bridge using indicator lights, including ascend, ascend to position, descend, and descend to position signals. Four indicator lights are grouped together, with one group installed inside the simulator's rear compartment, one on the instructor's control console below the simulator, and one on the electrical control cabinet. One tri-color indicator light is installed on the instructor's control console above the simulator, one on the instructor's control console below the simulator, and one on the boarding bridge platform to display the current operating status of the boarding bridge in real time.

[0152] The "Manual / Automatic" switch is used to switch the control mode of the boarding bridge. In the "Manual" position, the boarding bridge can only be raised and lowered using the "Up" and "Down" buttons in the electrical control cabinet. In the "Automatic" position, the boarding bridge can only be controlled using the motion platform. The "Fault Clear" button is used to restore the PLC control program. After a fault occurs, pressing this button will initialize the PLC control program and thus clear the fault.

[0153] Reference Figure 8 In the above modes, under automatic mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to rise is as follows: the boarding bridge can only rise if all of the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is in its lowest position, the mode switch is in automatic mode, the boarding bridge is on safety, the boarding bridge is in its lower limit position, and all safety doors are closed. If any one of these conditions is not met, the boarding bridge will not rise, regardless of whether it receives a rise signal.

[0154] Reference Figure 9 In the above modes, under automatic mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to descend is as follows: the boarding bridge can only descend if the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is at its lowest position, the mode switch is in automatic mode, the boarding bridge is at its upper limit position, and all safety doors are closed. If any one of these conditions is not met, the boarding bridge will not descend, regardless of whether it receives a descent signal.

[0155] Reference Figure 10 In the above modes, under manual mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to rise is as follows: the boarding bridge can only rise if all of the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is at its lowest position, the mode switch is in manual mode, the boarding bridge is secure, the boarding bridge is not at its upper limit position, and all safety doors are closed. If any of these conditions are not met, the boarding bridge will not rise, regardless of whether it receives a rise signal.

[0156] Reference Figure 11 In the above modes, under manual mode, the logic for controlling the boarding bridge to descend is as follows: the boarding bridge can only descend if the following conditions are met simultaneously: the motion platform is at its lowest position, the mode switch is in manual mode, the boarding bridge is not at its lower limit, and all safety doors are closed. If any of these conditions are not met, the boarding bridge will not descend, regardless of whether it receives a descent signal.

[0157] Reference Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the PLC control program for a boarding bridge provided in an embodiment of the present invention; the PLC control program schematic diagram is divided into an input section, an output section, and a communication section;

[0158] The input terminal of the input section is connected to multiple input signals from field devices;

[0159] The input terminals X10.2, X10.2, and X10.4 are respectively the inputs for the up, down, and emergency stop buttons on the boarding bridge control cabinet, used to manually control the up, down, and emergency stop of the boarding bridge;

[0160] The input terminals X10.5 and X10.6 are the upper and lower limit signals emitted by the magnetic sensors installed at the top and bottom of the electric cylinder of the boarding bridge, respectively. When the electric cylinder reaches the top or bottom, the magnetic sensor emits the corresponding limit signal, and the electric cylinder stops moving up or down.

[0161] The input terminal X10.7 is a remote emergency stop input signal installed on the boarding bridge, used to manually control the boarding bridge to stop suddenly;

[0162] The input terminals X10.8 and X11.1 are manual / automatic control input signals installed on the boarding bridge control cabinet, used to control the switching between the two modes;

[0163] The input terminal X11.2 is the input signal for the fault confirmation button on the boarding bridge control cabinet, used to clear the current boarding bridge fault status information;

[0164] The input terminals X11.3, X11.4, X11.6, and X11.7 are the limit input signals of the mechanical travel switches at the rising and falling points of the boarding bridge, respectively, used to indicate the movement of the boarding bridge to the corresponding position;

[0165] The input terminal X11.8 is the interlock input signal for the safety light curtain, which is triggered when someone is on the boarding bridge;

[0166] The input terminals X11.9 and X11.10 are rise / fall dry contact input signals. When the boarding bridge is in automatic mode, the motion platform controls the rise / fall of the boarding bridge.

[0167] The input terminal X11.14 is an emergency stop input signal installed inside the simulator room, used for emergency stop operations by personnel inside the simulator during training.

[0168] The input terminal X11.5 is the simulator's door feedback input signal, which is triggered when the simulator hatch door is not closed.

[0169] The input terminal X11.6 is the least significant bit input signal, which is triggered when the boarding bridge reaches its lowest position.

[0170] The input terminal X11.7 is an alarm input signal. When the boarding bridge malfunctions or an alarm message is received, this input signal is triggered, and the boarding bridge performs corresponding control actions.

[0171] The main function of the output terminals is for the PLC to control the relevant actuators of the simulator boarding bridge through these output ports;

[0172] The output terminal X12.2 is the power-on output signal of the frequency converter, used to control the power supply of the frequency converter;

[0173] The output terminal X12.3 is the output signal of the tri-color lamp buzzer, used to control the sounding of the tri-color lamp buzzer;

[0174] The output terminal X12.5 is the automatic mode output signal. When the boarding bridge control cabinet is switched to "automatic mode", the boarding bridge outputs the automatic mode output signal to the motion platform.

[0175] The output terminals X12.7-X12.10 are respectively the up status indicator, down status indicator, up position status indicator and down position status indicator of the boarding bridge inside the simulator. When the boarding bridge is in different positions and states, the corresponding indicator lights will light up to indicate the current boarding bridge status to the personnel inside the simulator.

[0176] The output terminal X13.2 is the motor braking control output signal. When a fault occurs or the emergency stop button is pressed, the motor braking control output signal is triggered, and the motor brakes to maintain the current position.

[0177] The output terminal X13.3 is a three-color red light output signal. When the boarding bridge malfunctions or the emergency stop button is pressed, the three-color red light output signal is triggered, and the three-color red light lights up to indicate the current abnormal status.

[0178] The communication section uses an RS485 communication interface to connect to the PLC's communication ports A and B;

[0179] The communication interface is used to exchange data with external devices (such as frequency converters, host computers, HMIs, etc.);

[0180] The RS485 is used to send control commands from the PLC to the frequency converter, or to obtain status feedback from the frequency converter, providing a real-time control and monitoring platform for the entire system.

[0181] The workflow of the PLC control system is as follows:

[0182] 1) Signal input: Field sensors (magnetic sensors, limit switches, emergency stop buttons, etc.) feed back the status to the PLC, and the PLC determines the current system status based on this input information;

[0183] 2) Logic processing: The PLC performs logic processing according to the pre-written program to determine how to respond to the input signal (e.g., start the motor, stop the motor, or trigger an alarm).

[0184] Signal output: Based on the processing results, the PLC sends commands to the actuator through the output terminals, such as controlling the frequency converter to adjust the motor speed, starting or stopping the brake, etc.

[0185] Communication control: The PLC can also monitor the operating status of the frequency converter in real time via RS485 to ensure the smooth operation of the entire boarding bridge system.

[0186] Reference Figure 13 The input principle of the PLC control program provided in the embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1 The PLC input principle Figure 1 The main input signals are S1, S2E, S3E, S4E, and S5.

[0187] Most of the input signals come from feedback signals from push-button switches or other devices, which are used to control the operation of the simulator's boarding bridge;

[0188] The input signal S2E is a rise button switch (NO, normally open contact) installed on the boarding bridge control cabinet; when the button is pressed, the control signal is sent to the PLC (via 24V voltage) to tell the system to start the rise operation. This button is used to start the rise movement of the boarding bridge in manual mode control.

[0189] The input signal S3E is a descent button switch (NO, normally open contact) installed on the boarding bridge control cabinet; when the button is pressed, the system receives a signal, and the button is used to control the descent operation of the boarding bridge in manual mode.

[0190] The input signal S1 is an emergency stop button installed on the boarding bridge control cabinet, which is a normally closed contact (NC). When the button is opened, the system stops running. Its main function is to quickly stop the movement of the boarding bridge in an emergency.

[0191] The input signal S4E is a fault confirmation button installed on the boarding bridge control cabinet, used to manually reset or confirm the problem when a system fault occurs; after the button is pressed, the signal is transmitted to the PLC, indicating that the fault has been confirmed and the system enters normal operation.

[0192] The input signal S5 is a mode switching switch (NO, normally open contact) installed on the boarding bridge control cabinet, used to switch the system's operating mode; the switching switch is used to switch the boarding bridge's manual mode and automatic mode, and after switching, the signal is transmitted to the PLC to determine the system's operating status;

[0193] Reference Figure 14 The input principle of the PLC control program provided in the embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2 The PLC input principle Figure 2 The upper and lower mechanical limit sensors (mechanical upper limit 1, mechanical lower limit 1, mechanical upper limit 2, mechanical lower limit 2) of the boarding bridge and the deceleration input control signal on the electric cylinder are shown; the limit sensors include SQ1, SQ2, SQ4, SQ5, SQ6, and SQ7;

[0194] The limit sensors SQ1 and SQ4 are upper limit switches, which are installed inside the rear of the support tripods 502 on both sides of the boarding bridge. The switches are triggered when the boarding bridge reaches the upper limit position.

[0195] The limit sensors SQ2 and SQ5 are lower limit switches, which are installed inside the front of the support tripod 502 on both sides of the boarding bridge. The switches are triggered when the boarding bridge reaches the lower limit.

[0196] The limit sensors SQ6 and SQ7 are deceleration limit switches for the electric push rod of the boarding bridge; the SQ6 and SQ7 switches are installed in the middle position inside the supporting tripod 502;

[0197] In "Auto" mode, the boarding bridge rises at 30% of full speed, passing the limit sensor SQ4 of mechanical upper limit 2, then the speed switches to 90% of full speed, and reaches the limit sensor SQ6 of magnetic induction deceleration limit, then the speed switches to 20% of full speed. In any mode, it rises to the limit sensor SQ1 of mechanical upper limit 1 and stops.

[0198] In "Auto" mode, the boarding bridge descends at 30% of full speed. After passing the limit sensor SQ5 of the mechanical lower limit 2, the speed switches to 90% of full speed. When it reaches the limit sensor SQ7 of the magnetic induction deceleration limit, the speed switches to 20% of full speed. In any mode, the descent stops when it reaches the limit sensor SQ2 of the mechanical lower limit 1.

[0199] Reference Figure 15 The above is a schematic diagram of the PLC control program output provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The PLC output schematic diagram includes output signals of multiple relays KA1~KA7 and KA9~KA10, which are responsible for controlling the operation of various types of equipment.

[0200] The output signal KA1 is used to control the buzzer of the tri-color lamp; the status of KA1 is controlled by the PLC output signal for status alarm.

[0201] The output signal KA2 is used to control the red light of the three-color indicator light to display the equipment fault or warning status;

[0202] The output signal KA3 is used to control the output of the automatic mode, indicating that the equipment is in automatic operation mode and the boarding bridge is connected to the motion platform for automatic control.

[0203] The output signal KA4 is used to control the upward movement of the boarding bridge. The output signal controls the extension of the electric cylinder to raise the boarding bridge.

[0204] The output signal KA5 is used to control the descent of the boarding bridge, and drives the electric cylinder to shorten and lower the boarding bridge.

[0205] The output signal KA6 is used to control the status indicator light inside the simulator chamber to illuminate when the device has reached the set rising position, indicating that the device has reached the set rising position.

[0206] The output signal KA7 is used to control the status indicator light inside the simulator chamber to illuminate when the device has descended to the set position, indicating that the device has reached the set descent position.

[0207] The output signal KA9 is used to control the power supply of the frequency converter, and to start or stop the power supply of the frequency converter.

[0208] The output signal KA10 is used to control the motor brake, typically for emergency stops or to keep the motor stopped.

[0209] The aforementioned output signals are used to control the operating status, alarm indication, and feedback signals of the equipment via relays; the corresponding output signals of the relays are connected to the corresponding actuators, such as lights, buzzers, motors, frequency converters, etc.

[0210] The above-described embodiments are preferred embodiments of the present invention and are only used to facilitate the illustration of the present invention. They are not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Any person skilled in the art who makes local modifications or alterations to the technical content disclosed in the present invention without departing from the scope of the technical features of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the technical features of the present invention.

Claims

1. A boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator, the boarding bridge structure comprising a boarding bridge platform, a control cabinet, a folding guardrail mechanism, a bridge body structure, and a detection device; the boarding bridge control system comprising an electrical control cabinet, actuators, and limit switches, characterized in that: The boarding bridge platform includes a bottom support, columns, control cabinet mounting bracket, support legs, connecting plates, platform, platform railings, control box, and alarm lights. The various components of the boarding bridge platform are assembled with bolts, providing a stable and reliable mechanical structure for the boarding bridge. The folding guardrail mechanism includes a linkage mechanism, comprising a small bearing seat, linkage, connector, short linkage, and long linkage. Utilizing the principle of parallel sides of a parallelogram, the mechanism achieves automatic folding and unfolding of the boarding guardrail through a fully mechanical hardware structure. The bridge structure includes a central bearing housing, bridge body, bridge deck, and grating sensors, providing a walking passage for personnel; The detection device includes a large bearing housing, a support tripod, limit switches, hydraulic rods, an actuator, and a bridge deck support, which are used to provide signal acquisition functions for the installation, detection, and retraction / extension movements of the boarding bridge. The electrical control cabinet contains a PLC controller, circuit breakers, contactors, frequency converters, connectors, and push-button switches, which are used to provide internal and external signal acquisition and logic processing functions for the boarding bridge.

2. The boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator according to claim 1, characterized in that... The bottom support and columns are all assembled from I-beams or U-shaped steels by bolts. The length of the bottom support can be adapted or removed according to the width of the trench below. The control cabinet mounting frame is made of sheet metal folded into a U-shape, and all the mounting holes on the control cabinet mounting frame are designed as waist-shaped holes.

3. The boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator according to claim 1, characterized in that... The support leg has two sections, which are welded together from U-shaped steel or I-beams. The support leg is fixed to two of the columns by bolts. The part of the support leg that contacts the ground is fixed to the ground by chemical bolts. The motor mounting base is made of U-shaped steel and is installed on the column by bolts. The side of the motor mounting base has a motor mounting hole, including at least one positioning hole. The mounting surface of the motor mounting base is at 90° with the electric cylinder actuator, so that the force of the electric cylinder is vertically transmitted to the electric cylinder support base.

4. The boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator according to claim 1, characterized in that... The small bearing seat is installed on the side of the above-mentioned column and is connected to the connector via a connecting rod; the bottom of the short connecting rod is equipped with a shaft and connected to the bearing on the side of the bridge body. When the boarding bridge is raised, the short connecting rod and the long connecting rod are folded under the pull of the connecting rod; when the boarding bridge is lowered, the short connecting rod and the long connecting rod are unfolded under the push of the connecting rod; the short connecting rod and the long connecting rod are connected by a pin structure and anti-wear pads are added on both sides.

5. The boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator according to claim 1, characterized in that... The upper part of the supporting tripod has a hollow structure and is equipped with limit switches. The supporting tripod is made of steel to ensure the structural safety of the tripod. The mounting holes of the supporting tripod are oblong holes, which facilitate height adjustment when installed on the column, thereby adjusting the level of the boarding bridge deck.

6. The boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator according to claim 1, characterized in that... There are a total of 6 limit switches: 2 upper limit stop switches, 2 lower limit stop switches, 1 upper limit speed change switch, and 1 lower limit speed change switch. The 2 upper limit stop switches and 2 lower limit stop switches are redundant designs to prevent damage to the boarding bridge structure caused by the failure of the limit switches to transmit signals. The 1 upper limit speed change switch and 1 lower limit speed change switch are mainly used to send speed change signals to the motor for acceleration and deceleration functions during the operation of the boarding bridge, thereby reducing the running time of the boarding bridge.

7. The boarding bridge and control system for a flight simulator according to claim 1, characterized in that... The electrical control cabinet contains a manual / automatic mode switch, "ascend," "descend," and "fault clear" control buttons. Externally, there is only an "emergency stop" control button, with one installed on the outside of the cabinet, one in the control room, and one next to the tri-color indicator light on the boarding bridge. The boarding bridge PLC control program in the electrical control cabinet displays the boarding bridge's operating status in real time via indicator lights, including ascent, ascent complete, descent, and descent complete signals. Four indicator lights are grouped together, with one group installed inside the simulator's rear compartment, one on the instructor's control console below the simulator, and one on the electrical control cabinet. One tri-color indicator light is installed on the instructor's control console above the simulator, one on the instructor's control console below the simulator, and one on the boarding bridge platform to display the current operating status of the boarding bridge in real time.

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