Systems and methods for detecting angle of airflow

Abstract

To provide a system and method for detecting an angle of an airflow.SOLUTION: A sensor includes an emitter electrode at a first position and exposed to a fluid airflow. The emitter electrode generates charged particles proximate the emitter electrode. The sensor includes an array of collector electrodes at a second position and exposed to the fluid airflow. Each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes detects a current associated with an electric field of the charged particles during relative movement of the fluid airflow. The array of collector electrodes includes: a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position; a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction; and a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. Outputs from the array of collector electrodes indicate an angular direction of relative movement of the fluid airflow.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for detecting the angle of an airflow. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] As air traffic continues to grow, the safety and reliability of aircraft operations become correspondingly more important. One way that aircraft operators ensure safe and reliable operations is through various types of sensors onboard the aircraft. For example, angle-of-attack sensors can provide information about the angle at which the aircraft is positioned relative to incoming air masses. This data is used for the proper functioning of flight control systems, especially during critical phases of flight such as takeoff, landing, and maneuvering.

[0003]

[0003] Aircraft sensors should be accurate, and redundant sources of accurate information should be available to the flight crew. Inaccurate angle-of-attack measurements can confuse the flight crew and put them in a dangerous flight situation. Redundant sensors act as a fail-safe mechanism, allowing the flight crew to cross-check data from multiple sources and quickly identify inconsistencies or failures. This redundancy increases the overall reliability of the aircraft's systems and expands safety margins, especially in scenarios where accurate angle-of-attack information is used to facilitate stable flight.

[0004]

[0004] Furthermore, redundant sensors contribute to the resilience of an aircraft when faced with various environmental factors. Adverse weather conditions, such as icing or turbulence, can affect sensor performance and lead to unreliable measurements. With multiple sensors installed, the aircraft can maintain accurate flight data even under harsh conditions. Therefore, redundant sensors can be important for the aircraft to operate in a variety of operating conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one particular embodiment, an aircraft includes an exterior skin. The aircraft also includes an emitter electrode disposed at a first location proximate the exterior skin and exposed to atmospheric air. The emitter electrode is configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode. The aircraft also includes an array of collector electrodes disposed at a second location proximate the exterior skin and exposed to atmospheric air, where the second location is aft of the first location. Each collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes is configured to detect a current associated with a flow of charged particles during movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference location. The array of collector electrodes also includes a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction. The array of collector electrodes also includes a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. The output from the array of collector electrodes is indicative of the aircraft's angle of attack.

[0006] In another specific embodiment, a sensor includes an emitter electrode disposed at a first position and configured to be exposed to the fluid airflow. The emitter electrode is configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode. The sensor also includes an array of collector electrodes disposed at a second position and configured to be exposed to the fluid airflow. The second position is offset from the first position. Each collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes is configured to detect a current associated with the flow of charged particles during movement of the fluid airflow. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position. The array of collector electrodes also includes a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction. The array of collector electrodes also includes a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. An output from the array of collector electrodes indicates an angular direction of relative movement of the fluid airflow.

[0007] In another specific embodiment, a method includes emitting charged particles at an emitter electrode disposed at a first location and exposed to atmospheric air. The method also includes detecting a current in an array of collector electrodes based on the flow of charged particles. The current is indicative of an angle of the airflow. The array of collector electrodes is disposed at a second location and exposed to atmospheric air, where the second location is rearward of the first location relative to the airflow. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference location. The array of collector electrodes also includes a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction. The array of collector electrodes also includes a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary system for detecting an angle of an airflow according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2]

[0009] 1 illustrates an example of a portion of an aircraft including a sensor for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3]

[0010] 1 illustrates an exemplary system including an emitter electrode relative to a collector electrode of an array of collector electrodes, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]

[0011] 10 illustrates an example diagram of a relationship between respective magnitudes of currents associated with sensor signals to generate angle-of-attack parameter values, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5]

[0012] 10 illustrates another example diagram of a relationship between respective magnitudes of currents associated with sensor signals to generate angle-of-attack parameter values, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6]

[0013] 1 illustrates an exemplary sensor for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]

[0014] 1 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a computing environment including a computing device configured to support aspects of computer-implemented methods and computer-executable program instructions (or code) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]

[0016] 1 is a flowchart of an example method illustrating the life cycle of an aircraft including a sensor for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10]

[0017] 1 illustrates an exemplary aircraft including components for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009]

[0018] The systems and methods disclosed herein enable detection of airflow angle by providing a sensor that can be implemented as a solid-state, non-mechanical sensor with no moving parts that can be integrated into a vehicle flush with a surface (e.g., the skin of a vehicle) to improve sensor reliability and maintainability. The systems and methods disclosed herein emit charged particles exposed to atmospheric air and detect a current in an array of collector electrodes based on the flow of charged particles, where the current is indicative of the airflow angle.

[0010]

[0019] A technical advantage of the present disclosure is that it enables efficient and reliable sensor operation. For example, angle of attack sensors implemented using the systems and methods disclosed herein may substantially eliminate known vulnerabilities of mechanical swept-vane angle of attack sensors, such as damage and failure due to ground intrusion, bird strikes, ice, improper maintenance, etc.

[0011]

[0020] Another technical advantage of the present disclosure is that it allows for the use of charged currents to provide multiple types of air data, such as angle of attack, airspeed, static pressure, and total air temperature.

[0012]

[0021] The drawings and the following description illustrate several specific, exemplary embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, even if not explicitly described or shown herein, they may devise various configurations that embody the principles described herein and are within the scope of the claims that follow. Furthermore, any examples described herein are intended to aid in the understanding of the principles of the disclosure and are not intended to be limiting. Consequently, the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments or examples described below, but is limited by the claims and their equivalents.

[0013]

[0022] Certain embodiments are described herein with reference to the drawings. In the description, common features are marked with common reference numerals throughout the drawings. Various terminology is used herein only to describe particular implementations and is not intended to be limiting. For example, the singular forms "a" and "the" are intended to include the plural (unless the context clearly dictates otherwise). Furthermore, some features described herein may exist in the singular in some embodiments and in the plural in other embodiments. To illustrate, FIG. 8 illustrates a computing environment 800 that includes one or more processors ("(one or more) processors" 820 in FIG. 8). This indicates that in some embodiments, the computing environment 800 includes a single processor 820, and in other embodiments, the computing environment 800 includes multiple processors 820. For ease of reference herein, such features are generally introduced as "one or more" features, followed by a single or optionally multiple features (typically indicated by "s"). This is unless it is explicitly stated that multiple aspects relate to multiple features.

[0014]

[0023] Furthermore, the terms "comprise," "comprises," and "comprising" are used interchangeably with "include," "includes," and "including." Furthermore, the term "wherein" is used interchangeably with the term "where." As used herein, "exemplary" indicates an example, an implementation, and / or an aspect and should not be construed as limiting or as indicating a preferred or preferred implementation. As used herein, ordinal terms (e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc.) modifying elements such as structures, components, acts, etc. do not in themselves indicate a priority or order of one element over another, but merely distinguish one element from another element having the same name (apart from its use as an ordinal term). As used herein, the term "set" refers to a grouping of one or more elements, and the term "plurality" refers to a plurality of elements.

[0015]

[0024] As used herein, "generating," "calculating," "using," "selecting," "accessing," and "determining" are interchangeable unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, "generating," "calculating," or "determining" a parameter (or signal) can refer to actively generating, calculating, or determining a parameter (or signal), or can refer to using, selecting, or accessing a parameter (or signal) that has already been generated, for example, by another component or device. As used herein, "coupled" may include "communicatively coupled," "electrically coupled," or "physically coupled," or may also (or alternatively) include any combination thereof. Two devices (or components) can be directly or indirectly coupled (communicatively coupled, electrically coupled, or physically coupled) via one or more other devices, components, wires, buses, networks (wired networks, wireless networks, or combinations thereof), etc. Two devices (or components) that are electrically coupled can be included in the same device or different devices and can be connected via electronics, one or more connectors, or inductive coupling, as illustrative, non-limiting examples. In some implementations, two devices (or components) that are communicatively coupled, such as via electrical communication, can send and receive electrical signals (digital signals or analog signals) directly or indirectly via one or more wires, buses, networks, etc. As used herein, "directly coupled" is used to describe two devices that are coupled (e.g., communicatively coupled, electrically coupled, or physically coupled) without any intervening components.

[0016]

[0025] 1 illustrates an exemplary system 100 for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some implementations, the system 100 includes a sensor 102. The sensor 102 includes an emitter electrode 106 and an array 104 of collector electrodes.

[0017]

[0026] In some embodiments, the sensor(s) 102 may include, correspond to, or be contained within one or more vehicles (e.g., aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, etc.), as described below with respect to FIG. 2. In the same or alternative embodiments, the sensor(s) 102 may include, correspond to, or be contained within one or more other surfaces (e.g., aircraft models used in wind tunnels, test surfaces, etc.). In the same or alternative embodiments, the sensor is a solid-state angle-of-attack sensor. The sensor includes an emitter electrode 106, an array of collector electrodes 104, and a DC high-voltage power supply, as described below with respect to FIG. 8.

[0018]

[0027] In some embodiments, the emitter electrode 106 is configured to provide an electric potential between the emitter electrode 106 and the array of collector electrodes 104. The emitter electrode 106 is configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode 106. For example, the emitter electrode 106 may be configured to generate positively charged ions to generate a plasma cloud around the emitter electrode 106.

[0019]

[0028] In some embodiments, the emitter electrode 106 is positioned at a first position 107 and exposed to the fluid gas flow 108. In some aspects, as described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 3 , the first position 107 is a position that extends above a boundary layer associated with the relative movement of the fluid gas flow 108. In the same or alternative aspects, the emitter electrode 106 is shaped to define an apex to focus field ionization. For example, the emitter electrode 106 may have a substantially conical shape. In further the same or alternative aspects, at least one collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes 104 has a blunted shape. The blunted shape may be configured to increase the surface area of ​​the portion of the collector electrode configured to receive charged particles.

[0020]

[0029] In some implementations, the array of collector electrodes 104 is positioned at a second location 109 and configured to be exposed to the fluid airflow 108. The second location 109 may be offset from the first location 107. For example, if the sensor 102 is mounted on an aircraft, the second location 109 may be aft of the first location 107. In some aspects, the second location 109 is sufficiently spaced relative to the first location 107 to substantially prevent arcing between the emitter electrode 106 and the array of collector electrodes 104, as described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 3 .

[0021]

[0030] In some implementations, each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes 104 is configured to detect a current associated with the electric field of the charged particles during relative movement of the fluidic airflow 108. For example, if the emitter electrode 106 generates positively charged ions around the emitter electrode 106, the relative movement of the fluidic airflow 108 will cause a corresponding movement of the ions toward the array of collector electrodes 104. Each collector electrode may be configured to detect a current associated with the electric field of the ions received at the respective collector electrode.

[0022]

[0031] In some aspects, the array of collector electrodes 104 includes a first collector electrode 117 aligned with the emitter electrode 106 at a reference position. For example, the emitter electrode 106 and the first collector electrode 117 may be aligned along an axis 120. The array of collector electrodes 104 may also include a first set of collector electrodes 110 that are angularly offset from the first collector electrode 117 in a first direction 114.

[0023]

[0032] In one particular aspect, the first set of collector electrodes 110 includes a plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a first direction 114 and angularly offset from one another across a first range of interest associated with a first angle of relative movement of the fluid airflow 108. For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 1 , the first set of collector electrodes 110 may include six electrodes. The electrodes of the first set 110 may be angularly arranged along the first direction 114 across the first range of interest. For example, the position of the last offset electrode of the first set 110 may be aligned with the emitter electrode 106 along an axis 118. An angle 122 between the axis 118 and the axis 120 may define a first range of interest. The first range of interest may be associated with a first angle of relative movement of the fluid airflow 108. For example, for angle of attack measurements, it may only be of interest to calibrate the sensor 102 for a subset of angle measurements. In one particular configuration, the sensor 102 may be implemented to return angle of attack measurements within a range of ±60 degrees relative to a reference position, as described in more detail below with respect to Figure 4. The first range of interest may be associated with a range of zero to 60 degrees relative to the reference position.

[0024]

[0033] The collector electrodes of the first set 110 can be angularly offset from one another along the first direction 114. In one particular aspect, the collector electrodes are angularly offset from one another at substantially equal angular intervals along the first extent of interest. In the same or alternative particular aspects, the electrodes of the first set 110 are positioned equidistant from the emitter electrode 106.

[0025]

[0034] 1 shows a particular number of electrodes in the first set of collector electrodes 110, the first set of collector electrodes 110 may include more or fewer electrodes in the same or alternative configurations. For example, as described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 6, the first set of collector electrodes 110 may include 12 electrodes spaced approximately 5 degrees apart from each other along the first direction 114, the 12 electrodes being spaced at substantially equal angular intervals along a first range of interest that includes an approximately 60-degree arc relative to the first collector electrode 117. As another example, the first range of interest may include an approximately 30-degree arc relative to the first collector electrode 117.

[0026]

[0035] In some aspects, the array of collector electrodes 104 may also include a second set of collector electrodes 112 angularly offset from the first collector electrode 117 in the second direction 116. In one particular aspect, the second set of collector electrodes 112 includes a plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along the second direction 116 and angularly offset from one another over a second range of interest associated with a second angle of relative movement of the fluid airflow 108. For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 1 , the second set of collector electrodes 112 may include six electrodes. The electrodes of the second set 112 may be angularly arranged along the second direction 116 over a second range of interest. The second range of interest may be associated with a second angle of relative movement of the fluid airflow 108. For example, for angle of attack measurements, it may only be of interest to calibrate the sensor 102 for a subset of angle measurements. In one particular configuration, the sensor 102 may be implemented to return angle of attack measurements within a range of ±60 degrees relative to a reference position, as described in more detail below with respect to Figure 4. A second range of interest may be associated with a range of zero to negative 60 degrees relative to the reference position.

[0027]

[0036] The collector electrodes of the second set 112 can be angularly offset from one another along the second direction 116. In one particular aspect, the collector electrodes are angularly offset from one another at substantially equal angular intervals along the second range of interest. In the same or alternative particular aspects, the electrodes of the second set 112 are positioned equidistant from the emitter electrode 106.

[0028]

[0037] 1 shows a particular number of electrodes in the second set of collector electrodes 112, the second set of collector electrodes 112 may include more or fewer electrodes in the same or alternative configurations. For example, as described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 6, the second set of collector electrodes 112 may include 12 electrodes spaced approximately 5 degrees apart from each other along the second direction 116, the 12 electrodes being spaced at substantially equal angular intervals along a second range of interest that includes an approximately 60-degree arc relative to the first collector electrode 117. As another example, the first range of interest may include an approximately 30-degree arc relative to the first collector electrode 117.

[0029]

[0038] In some embodiments, the sensor 102 may also include an array of current sensors, as described below with respect to Figure 8. Each sensor in the array of current sensors is coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes 104.

[0030]

[0039] In one particular aspect, each sensor in the array of current sensors is also configured to output a sensor signal. As described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 4-5 , the system 100 may also include one or more processors connected to receive the sensor signals from the array of current sensors and configured to calculate an angular direction parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between the magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals. The direction of relative movement of the fluid airflow 108 is indicated by the angular direction parameter value. As described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 4-5 , the processor may also be configured to calculate the fluid airflow direction parameter value based at least on peaks of the current in the array of collector electrodes 104.

[0031]

[0040] As an example operation, the relative movement of the fluid airflow 108 may include the operation of the sensor 102 in the atmosphere. For example, the sensor 102 may be coupled to the skin of an aircraft moving through the atmosphere. The emitter electrode 106 may be configured to generate a plasma of positively charged ions. The ions may be moved by the relative movement of the fluid airflow 108 toward the array of collector electrodes 104. In one particular configuration of the array of collector electrodes 104, the reference position may include a zero-angle reference position, the first direction 114 may be a positive angular direction, and the second direction 116 may be a negative angular direction. When the ions are received by the array of collector electrodes 104, an array of current sensors coupled to the array of collector electrodes 104 may detect induced currents in each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes 104 and output a plurality of sensor signals. The processor(s) may receive the sensor signals and calculate angular orientation parameter values ​​based on the relationship between the respective magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals.

[0032]

[0041] The angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid airflow 108 may be based on the angular direction parameter value and may include the angular measurement output of the sensor 102. In the particular exemplary configuration described above, the first set of collector electrodes 110 includes a first plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a first direction 114 and angularly offset from one another over a first range of interest associated with a positive angular measurement output of the sensor 102. The second set of collector electrodes 112 includes a second plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a second direction 116 and angularly offset from one another over a second range of interest associated with a negative angular measurement output of the sensor 102. For example, the angular direction parameter value may be based at least in part on the magnitude of each of the currents associated with the sensor signals associated with the first plurality of electrodes for a positive angular portion of the angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid airflow 108, and may be based at least in part on the magnitude of each of the currents associated with the sensor signals associated with the second plurality of electrodes for a negative angular portion of the angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid airflow 108.

[0033]

[0042] In one particular configuration, movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere includes movement of the aircraft's lateral axis and movement of the airfoil's chord line relative to the airflow as the airfoil moves through the atmosphere. The lateral movement results in a change in the aircraft's angle of attack. In one such configuration, the reference position includes a zero-angle reference position, the first direction 114 includes a positive angular direction, and the second direction 116 includes a negative angular direction.

[0034]

[0043] 2 illustrates an example of a portion of an aircraft 200 including a sensor for detecting an angle of an airflow, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some implementations, aircraft 200 includes an exterior skin 202 and a sensor 204 coupled to exterior skin 202. Sensor 204 generally corresponds to sensor 102 of FIG. 1.

[0035]

[0044] In some implementations, sensor 204 includes an emitter electrode (e.g., emitter electrode 106 of FIG. 1 ) positioned at a first location 206 proximate exterior skin 202 and exposed to atmospheric air. In one particular aspect, first location 206 is elevated from exterior skin 202 and extends above a boundary layer associated with the atmospheric air during movement of aircraft 200 through the atmosphere. The emitter electrode is configured to generate charged particles proximate to the emitter electrode, as described in more detail above with respect to FIG. 1 .

[0036]

[0045] The sensor 204 may also include an array of collector electrodes (e.g., the array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1 ) disposed at a second location 208 proximate the exterior skin 202 and exposed to ambient air. The second location 208 may be aft of the first location 206. In some aspects, the second location 208 is sufficiently spaced relative to the first location 206 to substantially prevent arcing between the emitter electrode 106 and the array of collector electrodes 104, as described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 3 .

[0037]

[0046] 2 illustrates certain features of aircraft 200, there may be more, fewer, and / or different components of aircraft 200 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, aircraft 200 may include an array of current sensors. Each sensor in the array of current sensors is coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes and configured to output a sensor signal. Aircraft 200 may also include one or more processors connected to receive the sensor signals from the array of current sensors.

[0038]

[0047] 3 illustrates an exemplary system 300 including an emitter electrode 302 relative to a collector electrode 304 of an array of collector electrodes, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, the emitter electrode 302 corresponds to the emitter electrode 106 of FIG. 1, and the collector electrode 304 corresponds to one of the collector electrodes of the array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1.

[0039]

[0048] In some implementations, the emitter electrode 302 is positioned at a first position (e.g., first position 107 in FIG. 1 , first position 206 in FIG. 2 , etc.), and the collector electrode 304 is positioned at a second position (e.g., second position 109 in FIG. 1 , second position 208 in FIG. 2 , etc.). Both the emitter electrode 302 and the collector electrode 304 are exposed to the fluid airflow 108 in FIG. 1 . For example, as described above with respect to FIG. 2 , the emitter electrode 302 and the collector electrode 304 may be positioned proximate to the exterior skin of the aircraft and exposed to atmospheric air. In such a configuration, the second position is aft of the first position.

[0040]

[0049] In some aspects, the second location of the collector electrode 304 is sufficiently spaced from the first location of the emitter electrode 302 to substantially prevent arcing between the emitter electrode 302 and the collector electrode 304. For example, the distance 306 between the emitter electrode 302 and the collector electrode 304 may be 30.78 mm. In the same or alternative aspects, the first location, the second location, or both extend above a boundary layer associated with the relative movement of the fluid gas stream 108. For example, the distance 308 between the emitter electrode 302 and the surface 312 on which the emitter electrode 302 is disposed may be approximately 2.54 mm. The distance between each electrode and the surface 312 may be the same or different for the emitter electrode 302 and the collector electrode 304. For example, the distance 310 between the collector electrode 304 and the surface 312 on which the collector electrode 304 is disposed may be approximately 1.90 mm. Furthermore, the distance 310 may be the same or different for multiple collector electrodes 304 in a particular configuration of the array of collector electrodes 104 in FIG.

[0041]

[0050] In some aspects, the first position of the emitter electrode 302 may extend above the boundary layer while remaining close to the edge of the boundary layer. Measuring the propagation of ionized air molecules close to the boundary layer of a sensor (e.g., sensor 102 of FIG. 1) may enable accurate calculation of the angle of attack of the aircraft.

[0042]

[0051] 4 illustrates an example diagram 400 of a relationship between respective magnitudes of currents associated with sensor signals (e.g., sensor signals 881 of FIG. 1 , sensor signals 881 of FIG. 8 , or some combination thereof) to generate angle-of-attack parameter values, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some aspects, an angle of attack of an aircraft (e.g., aircraft 200 of FIG. 2 ) is indicated by the angle-of-attack parameter value.

[0043]

[0052] The exemplary diagram 400 shows a plurality of data points plotted along a first axis 404 and a second axis 402. In one particular aspect, the first axis 404 includes values ​​associated with the angle of attack of the aircraft, including values ​​reflecting first and second ranges of interest described in more detail above with respect to FIG. 1 . For example, the exemplary diagram 400 includes the first axis 404 including values ​​from a negative 60 degree angle of attack to a positive 60 degree angle of attack. The second axis 402 may include values ​​associated with a current associated with a particular collector electrode of an array of collector electrodes (e.g., the array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1 ). For example, the second axis 402 may include values ​​of current measured in milliamperes.

[0044]

[0053] In some embodiments, the diagram 400 includes a first set 406 of data points and a second set 408 of data points. Each of the sets 406, 408 of data points includes an exemplary 13 data points, where each data point corresponds to a respective collector electrode in the exemplary array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1 . For example, the array of collector electrodes 104 may include a first collector electrode 117, a first set 110 of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode 117 in a first direction 114, and a second set 112 of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode 117 in a second direction 116. As shown in the exemplary sensor 102 of FIG. 1 , the first set 110 and the second set 112 each include six collector electrodes equidistantly spaced from the emitter electrode 106 and equidistantly spaced from each other. In one exemplary configuration, each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes 104 may correspond to a gradient of a range of interest with respect to the angular direction of relative movement of the fluid airflow 108. Thus, the first collector electrode 117 may be associated with a zero angular reference position, the first set 110 may be associated with a first range of interest in a positive angular direction, and the second set 112 may be associated with a second range of interest in a negative angular direction.

[0045]

[0054] In one exemplary configuration described above, the first set 110 includes six collector electrodes. Each collector electrode in the first set 110 may be associated with a different value within the first range of interest at regular intervals. That is, the collector electrode closest to the first collector electrode 117 in FIG. 1 may be associated with a positive 10-degree angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid airflow 108. By way of example, the collector electrode in the first set 110 closest to the first collector electrode 117 may be associated with a positive 10-degree angular direction, the next collector electrode along the first angular direction 114 may be associated with a positive 20-degree angular direction, etc. Similarly, the collector electrode in the second set 112 closest to the first collector electrode 117 may be associated with a negative 10-degree angular direction, the next collector electrode along the second direction 116 may be associated with a negative 20-degree angular direction, etc.

[0046]

[0055] In the exemplary diagram 400, sets 406, 408 each include a data point for each of the exemplary collector electrodes. As described in more detail above with respect to FIG. 1, the value of each data point along the second axis 402 may be related to the current detected at the respective collector electrode, which may be received from the sensor signal(s). The data points are plotted along the axes 402, 404 to generate a statistical fit for each set of data points. For example, sets 406, 408 in FIG. 4 show a substantially Gaussian distribution of the data points in sets 406, 408.

[0047]

[0056] In some implementations, one or more processors may be configured to calculate a fluid airflow direction parameter value (e.g., an angle of attack parameter value) based at least in part on a peak in the current at the array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1 . In one particular aspect, the current peak may be identified from a peak in a statistical fit to the data points for a particular data set. For example, data set 406 shows a peak current 410 associated with a zero degree angle of attack. Data set 408 shows a peak current 412 associated with a positive 10 degree angle of attack. By identifying a peak value from a statistical analysis of the data sets associated with the relative current magnitude from the array of collector electrodes, the processor(s) may calculate the fluid airflow direction parameter value.

[0048]

[0057] 5 illustrates another example diagram 500 of a relationship between respective magnitudes of currents associated with sensor signals (e.g., sensor signals 881 of FIG. 1 , sensor signals 881 of FIG. 8 , or some combination thereof) to generate angle-of-attack parameter values, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some aspects, an angle of attack of an aircraft (e.g., aircraft 200 of FIG. 2 ) is indicated by the angle-of-attack parameter value.

[0049]

[0058] Exemplary diagram 500 shows multiple data points plotted along first axis 404 and second axis 402 of FIG. 4. In some embodiments, diagram 500 includes a first set of data points 503, a second set of data points 505, and a third set of data points 507. Each of sets 503, 505, and 507 may include multiple data points. As described in more detail above with respect to FIG. 4, each data point corresponds to a respective collector electrode of exemplary array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1 at a particular time point. In one implementation of diagram 500, each of sets 503, 505, and 507 is analyzed to identify a statistical fit. For example, first set 503 has a corresponding first fit 502, second set 505 has a corresponding second fit 504, and third set 507 has a corresponding third fit 506. As described above with respect to FIG. 4 , the one or more processors may be configured to identify the peak value of each fit 502, 504, 506 to identify the fluid airflow direction parameter value for a particular point in time associated with the particular fit 502, 504, 506.

[0050]

[0059] In some aspects, diagram 500 illustrates a set 508 of anomalous data points. In the example of FIG. 5, set 508 includes data points from each of sets 503, 505, and 507. In one particular configuration, processor(s) may be configured to identify the anomalous data point(s), identify a particular collector electrode associated with the anomalous data point(s), identify a particular collector electrode as providing an anomalous reading, or some combination thereof. For example, processor(s) may be configured to identify the anomalous data point(s) by identifying one or more data points that are outside a statistical fit threshold from an identified statistical fit. In this manner, sensors providing data points for sets 503, 505, and 507 may be configured to generate self-diagnostic information.

[0051]

[0060] Diagram 500 illustrates the use of sensor signal data to generate a fluid airflow direction parameter value. For example, a particular data set may include data points associated with currents in an array of collector electrodes, but a statistical fit associated with the particular data set may provide a better measure of the fluid airflow direction parameter value. For example, third set of data points 507 includes multiple data points 507A having a magnitude lower than the peak of second fit 506 and multiple data points 507B having a magnitude higher than the peak of second fit 506. Analyzing the relationship between the respective magnitudes of the currents may provide a better measure of the fluid airflow direction parameter value.

[0052]

[0061] Further, each of the fits 502, 504, 506 is associated with a particular point in time. In one particular aspect, the points in time associated with each of the fits 502, 504, 506 are close enough together so that the fits 502, 504, 506 can be analyzed collectively to provide a more accurate measure of the fluid airflow direction parameter value. For example, the current peaks associated with each of the fits 502, 504, 506 can be averaged to provide an overall current peak value.

[0053]

[0062] Although diagram 500 shows particular data points and statistical analyses of those data points, more, fewer, and / or different data points, analyses, etc. may be present without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, a given system may not produce anomalous data points, may have a different number of collector electrodes (and correspondingly a different number of data points (associated with the relative magnitudes of current)), etc.

[0054]

[0063] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary sensor 600 for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, the sensor 600 corresponds to the sensor 102 of FIG. 1 , the sensor 204 of FIG. 2 , or some combination thereof. In some implementations, the sensor 600 includes an emitter electrode 106 disposed at a first position 107 and configured to be exposed to the fluid airflow 108 of FIG. 1 . The sensor 600 also includes an array of collector electrodes 104 disposed at a second position 109. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode 117 aligned with the emitter electrode 106 at a reference position, a first set of collector electrodes 110 angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction 114, and a second set of collector electrodes 112 angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction 116.

[0055]

[0064] Sensor 600 includes 25 collector electrodes in array 104 of collector electrodes, with 12 electrodes in each of first and second sets 110 and 112 of collector electrodes angularly offset from first collector electrode 117. The 12 collector electrodes in each set 110, 112 are spaced substantially equidistant from emitter electrode 106 at approximately 5 degrees from each other. The configuration illustrated in sensor 600 allows measurement of airflow direction parameter values ​​for a range of interest of approximately 60 degrees (e.g., first range of interest, second range of interest, or a combination thereof in FIG. 1). The configuration shows first set 110 of collector electrodes aligned from axis 118 to axis 120. Angle 122 is approximately 60 degrees.

[0056]

[0065] In some implementations, sensor 600 is a solid-state angle-of-attack sensor. Sensor 600 includes a plurality of coupling points 612 disposed between an outer periphery 602 of sensor 600 and an inner periphery 606 of sensor 600. Inner periphery 606 may generally be related to the angular offset of sets of collector electrodes 110, 112. Intermediate circumference 604 identifies exemplary locations of exemplary coupling points 612. In one example of FIG. 6 , distance 608 between a pair of coupling points 612 and other dimensions of sensor 600 are selected to allow sensor 600 to be installed in place of conventional angle-of-attack sensors. For example, when used on a Boeing® commercial aircraft, the distance 608 between a pair of attachment points 612 is approximately 2.859 inches, the inner circumference 606 is approximately 3.25 inches, the middle circumference 604 is approximately 4.185 inches, and the outer circumference 602 is approximately 4.87 inches (Boeing® is a registered trademark of The Boeing Company, a Delaware corporation).

[0057]

[0066] In some embodiments, the surface including sensor 600 is substantially planar and elevated sufficiently from the mounting surface to extend above the boundary layer associated with the relative movement of the fluid airflow. For example, the surface may extend approximately 0.125 inches above the exterior skin of an aircraft (e.g., aircraft 200 of FIG. 2).

[0058]

[0067] 7 is a flowchart of an example method 700 for detecting an angle of an airflow, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Method 700 may be initiated, performed, or controlled by one or more processors executing instructions, such as processor(s) 820 of FIG. 8 executing instructions 834 from memory 830. Method 700 may also be initiated, performed, or controlled by sensor 102 of FIG. 1, sensor 204 of FIG. 2, system 300 of FIG. 3, sensor 600 of FIG. 6, or a combination thereof.

[0059]

[0068] In some embodiments, method 700 includes emitting charged particles at an emitter electrode disposed at a first location and exposed to ambient air at block 702. For example, sensor 102 of FIG. 1 may be configured to emit charged particles at emitter electrode 106 disposed at first location 107 and exposed to fluid airflow 108.

[0060]

[0069] At block 704, the method 700 includes detecting a current in an array of collector electrodes based on the flow of charged particles. The current indicates an angle of the airflow, and the array of collector electrodes is positioned at a second position and exposed to ambient air. The second position is rearward of the first position with respect to the airflow. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position, a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction, and a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. For example, the sensor 102 of FIG. 1 may be configured to detect a current in the array of collector electrodes 104 based on the flow of charged particles. The current indicates an angle of the fluid airflow 108. The array of collector electrodes 104 is positioned at a second position 109 and exposed to the fluid airflow 108. The second position 109 is rearward of the first position 107 with respect to the fluid airflow 108. The array of collector electrodes 104 includes a first collector electrode 117 aligned with the emitter electrode 106 at a reference position (e.g., along an axis 120). A first set of collector electrodes 110 is angularly offset from the first collector electrode 117 in a first direction 114. A second set of collector electrodes 112 is angularly offset from the first collector electrode 117 in a second direction 116.

[0061]

[0070] In some implementations, method 700 may include more, fewer, and / or different steps without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, method 700 may also include receiving sensor signals from an array of current sensors coupled to respective collector electrodes of the array of collector electrodes. Method 700 may also include generating angular orientation parameter values ​​based at least in part on a relationship between respective magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals.

[0062]

[0071] 7 may be implemented to achieve one or more of the technical advantages described in more detail above. For example, method 700 may enable a more reliable and maintainable angle-of-attack sensor.

[0063]

[0072] 8 is a block diagram of a computing environment 800 including a computing device 810 configured to support aspects of computer-implemented methods and computer-executable program instructions (or code) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, computing device 810, or portions thereof, are configured to execute instructions to initiate, perform, or control one or more of the operations described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 1-7. In one particular aspect, computing device 810 may include, correspond to, or be included in a computing device, one or more servers, one or more virtual devices, or a combination thereof.

[0064]

[0073] The computing device 810 includes one or more processors 820. The processor(s) 820 are configured to communicate with a system memory 830, one or more storage devices 850, one or more input / output interfaces 840, one or more communication interfaces 860, or any combination thereof. The system memory 830 includes volatile memory devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM) devices), non-volatile memory devices (e.g., read-only memory (ROM) devices, programmable read-only memory, and flash memory), or both. The system memory 830 stores an operating system 832, which may include a basic input / output system for booting the computing device 810 and a full operating system for enabling the computing device 810 to interact with a user, other programs, and other devices. The system memory 830 stores system (program) data 838, such as current magnitudes 839 from sensor signals 881.

[0065]

[0074] The system memory 830 includes one or more applications 834 (e.g., sets of instructions) executable by the processor(s) 820, such as an angular orientation parameter calculator 837. As one example, the one or more applications 834 include instructions 836 executable by the processor(s) 820 to initiate, control, or perform one or more operations described with reference to Figures 1-7. Illustratively, the one or more applications 834 include instructions 836 executable by the processor(s) 820 to initiate, control, or perform one or more operations described with respect to receiving sensor signals 881 from the array of current sensors of Figure 1 and calculating an angular orientation parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between respective magnitudes 839 of the currents associated with the sensor signals 881.

[0066]

[0075] In one particular implementation, system memory 830 includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., a computer-readable storage device) having stored thereon instructions 836 that, when executed by processor(s) 820, cause processor(s) 820 to initiate, perform, or control operations for detecting an angle of airflow, including receiving sensor signals from an array of current sensors and calculating an angular orientation parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between the respective magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals.

[0067]

[0076] In the same or alternative specific embodiments, system memory 830 includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., a computer-readable storage device) having stored thereon instructions 836 that, when executed by processor(s) 820, cause processor(s) 820 to initiate, perform, or control operations for detecting an angle of airflow, including receiving sensor signals from an array of current sensors and calculating an angular orientation parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between the respective magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals.

[0068]

[0077] The one or more storage devices 850 include non-volatile storage devices such as magnetic disks, optical disks, or flash memory devices. In a particular embodiment, the storage devices 850 include both removable and non-removable memory devices. The storage devices 850 are configured to store an operating system, operating system images, applications (e.g., one or more applications 834), and program data (e.g., program data 838). In a particular aspect, the system memory 830, the storage devices 850, or both, comprise tangible computer-readable media. In a particular aspect, one or more of the storage devices 850 reside external to the computing device 810.

[0069]

[0078] The one or more input / output interfaces 840 enable the computing device 810 to communicate with one or more input / output devices 870 to facilitate interaction with a user. For example, the one or more input / output interfaces 840 may include a display interface, an input interface, or both. For example, the input / output interface 840 may be adapted to receive input from a user, receive input from another computing device, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, input / output interface 840 conforms to one or more standard interface protocols, including a serial interface (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) interface or (IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) interface standard), a parallel interface, a display adapter, an audio adapter, or a custom interface ("IEEE" is a registered trademark of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. of Piscataway, NJ). In some embodiments, input / output device(s) 870 include one or more user interface devices and displays, including any combination of buttons, keyboards, pointing devices, displays, speakers, microphones, touchscreens, and other devices.

[0070]

[0079] The processor(s) 820 are configured to communicate with a device or controller 880 via one or more communication interfaces 860. For example, the one or more communication interfaces 860 may include a network interface. The device or controller 880 may include, for example, the sensor(s) 102 of FIG. 1 , the sensor 204 of FIG. 2 , the system 300 of FIG. 3 , the sensor 600 of FIG. 6 , or some combination thereof. In some implementations, the device or controller 880 may include a direct current (“DC”), high-voltage power supply 825 and an array of current sensors 815, or a combination thereof. For example, as described in more detail above with respect to FIG. 1 , a sensor 102 configured as a solid-state angle-of-attack sensor may include a DC high-voltage power supply 825. As another example, the sensor 102 may include an array of current sensors 815, where each sensor in the array of current sensors is coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes 104 of FIG. 1 and configured to output a sensor signal 881.

[0071]

[0080] In some implementations, a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., a computer-readable storage device) stores instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to initiate, perform, or control operations to perform some or all of the functions described above. For example, the instructions may be executable to perform one or more of the operations or methods of FIGS. 1-7. In some implementations, some or all of one or more of the operations or methods of FIGS. 1-7 may be performed by one or more processors (e.g., one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs)), or any combination thereof, that execute instructions using dedicated hardware circuitry.

[0072]

[0081] 9 is a flowchart of an example method 900 illustrating a life cycle of an aircraft including a sensor for detecting an airflow angle, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. During pre-production, method 900 includes, at 902, specification and design of an aircraft, such as the portion of aircraft 200 described with reference to FIG. 2 . During the specification and design of the aircraft, method 900 may include specification and design of sensor 102. At 904, method 900 includes sourcing materials. The sourcing of materials may include sourcing materials for sensor 102.

[0073]

[0082] During production, method 900 includes, at 906, manufacturing of components and subassemblies and, at 908, system integration with the aircraft. For example, method 900 may include manufacturing of components and subassemblies of sensor 102 and system integration of sensor 102. At 910, method 900 includes certification and delivery of the aircraft and, at 912, placing the aircraft in service. Certification and delivery may include certification of sensor 102 for use. While in service by a customer, the aircraft may be scheduled for periodic maintenance and service (which may also include modifications, reconfigurations, refurbishments, etc.). At 914, method 900 includes performing maintenance and service on the aircraft. The maintenance and service may include performing maintenance and service on sensor 102.

[0074]

[0083] Each of the processes of method 900 may be performed or implemented by a system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator (e.g., a customer). For purposes of this description, a system integrator may include, but is not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major system subcontractors, a third party may include, but is not limited to, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers, and an operator may be an airline, a leasing company, a military organization, a service organization, etc.

[0075]

[0084] Figure 10 illustrates an example aircraft 1000 (e.g., using method 700 of Figure 7) including a component 1040 for detecting an angle of an airflow, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment of Figure 10, aircraft 1000 includes an airframe 1018 having a number of systems 1020 and an interior 1022. Examples of systems 1020 include one or more of a propulsion system 1024, an electrical system 1026, an environmental system 1028, and a hydraulic system 1030. Any number of other systems may be included.

[0076]

[0085] In the example of Figure 10, component 1040 includes sensor 102 of Figure 1, sensor 204 of Figure 2, sensor 600 of Figure 6, or a combination thereof. In some implementations, component 1040 may be configured to perform specific operations, such as those described above with respect to method 700 of Figure 7.

[0077]

[0086] To illustrate, in some embodiments, component 1040 is included within airframe 1018. In one embodiment, component 1040 includes or corresponds to an exterior component of aircraft 1000, such as a skin portion of aircraft 1000. Alternatively or additionally, in other embodiments, component 1040 includes or corresponds to another component of aircraft 1000, such as a component of interior 1022 that includes sensor 102, sensor 204, sensor 600, or a combination thereof.

[0078]

[0087] The illustrations of the various embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. These illustrations are not intended to exhaustively describe all elements and features of apparatus and systems that utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments may become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, method actions may be performed in a different order than shown in the figures, or one or more method actions may be omitted. Therefore, the present disclosure and the figures should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0079]

[0088] Furthermore, while specific examples have been shown and described herein, any subsequent configurations designed to achieve the same or similar results may be substituted for the specific embodiment shown. The present disclosure is intended to include any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above-described embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon review of this specification.

[0080]

[0089] The Abstract of the Disclosure is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described within a single embodiment for the purpose of conciseness of the disclosure. The above examples are illustrative of the disclosure, not limiting. Furthermore, many modifications and variations are possible in accordance with the principles of the disclosure. As reflected in the following claims, claimed subject matter may not be directed to all features of any disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosure is defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

[0081]

[0090] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following examples.

[0082]

[0091] According to Example 1, an aircraft includes an exterior skin. The aircraft also includes an emitter electrode disposed at a first location proximate the exterior skin and exposed to atmospheric air. The emitter electrode is configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode. The aircraft also includes an array of collector electrodes disposed at a second location proximate the exterior skin and exposed to atmospheric air. The second location is aft of the first location. Each collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes is configured to detect a current associated with a flow of charged particles during movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference location, a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction, and a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. An output from the array of collector electrodes is indicative of an angle of attack of the aircraft.

[0083]

[0092] Example 2 includes the aircraft of example 1, further comprising an array of current sensors, wherein each sensor in the array of current sensors is coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes and configured to output a sensor signal.

[0084]

[0093] Example 3 includes the aircraft of example 2, further comprising a processor coupled to receive the sensor signals from the array of current sensors, the processor configured to calculate an angle-of-attack parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between respective magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals, wherein an angle of attack of the aircraft is indicated by the angle-of-attack parameter value.

[0085]

[0094] Example 4 includes the aircraft of example 3, in which the processor is configured to calculate an angle-of-attack parameter value based at least in part on peaks of current in the array of collector electrodes.

[0086]

[0095] Example 5 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1-4, wherein the movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere includes movement of a lateral axis of the aircraft and movement of a chord line of the airfoil relative to the airflow as the airfoil moves through the atmosphere, wherein the lateral movement results in a change in the angle of attack of the aircraft, wherein the reference position includes a zero-angle reference position, the first direction includes a positive angular direction, and the second direction includes a negative angular direction.

[0087]

[0096] Example 6 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1 to 5, wherein the emitter electrode is configured to provide an electrical potential between the emitter electrode and the array of collector electrodes.

[0088]

[0097] Example 7 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1-6, in which the first position includes a position elevated from the exterior skin and extending above a boundary layer associated with atmospheric air during movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere.

[0089]

[0098] Example 8 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1 to 7, wherein the emitter electrode is shaped to define an apex for concentrating the field ionization.

[0090]

[0099] Example 9 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1 to 8, wherein at least one collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes has a blunted shape.

[0091]

[0100] Example 10 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1-9, in which the first set of collector electrodes includes a first plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a first direction and angularly offset from one another over a first range of interest associated with positive angle-of-attack measurements for the aircraft.

[0092]

[0101] Example 11 includes the aircraft of example 10, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are positioned at substantially equal angular intervals across a first range of interest.

[0093]

[0102] Example 12 includes the aircraft of example 10 or 11, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are positioned equidistant from the emitter electrode.

[0094]

[0103] Example 13 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 10 to 12, wherein the first set of electrodes includes 12 electrodes.

[0095]

[0104] Example 14 includes the aircraft of example 13, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are spaced apart by approximately 5 degrees.

[0096]

[0105] Example 15 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 10 to 14, wherein the first area of ​​interest includes an approximately 30 degree arc relative to the first collector electrode along the first direction.

[0097]

[0106] Example 16 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1-15, in which the second set of collector electrodes includes a second plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a second direction and angularly offset from one another over a second range of interest associated with negative angle-of-attack measurements for the aircraft.

[0098]

[0107] Example 17 includes the aircraft of example 16, wherein the second plurality of electrodes is positioned at substantially equal angular intervals across a second range of interest.

[0099]

[0108] Example 18 includes the aircraft of example 16 or 17, wherein the second plurality of electrodes are positioned equidistant from the emitter electrode.

[0100]

[0109] Example 19 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 16 to 18, wherein the second set of electrodes includes 12 electrodes.

[0101]

[0110] Example 20 includes the aircraft of example 19, wherein the second plurality of electrodes are spaced apart by approximately 5 degrees.

[0102]

[0111] Example 21 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 16 to 20, wherein the second range of interest includes an approximately 30 degree arc relative to the first collector electrode along the second direction.

[0103]

[0112] Example 22 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1 to 21, wherein the second location is sufficiently spaced relative to the first location to substantially prevent arcing between the array of emitter electrodes and collector electrodes.

[0104]

[0113] Example 23 includes the aircraft of any one of examples 1-22, further including a solid-state angle-of-attack sensor including an emitter electrode, an array of collector electrodes, and a DC high voltage power supply.

[0105]

[0114] According to Example 24, a sensor includes an emitter electrode disposed at a first position and configured to be exposed to the fluid airflow. The emitter electrode is configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode. The sensor also includes an array of collector electrodes disposed at a second position and configured to be exposed to the fluid airflow. The second position is offset from the first position. Each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes is configured to detect a current associated with the flow of charged particles during relative movement of the fluid airflow. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position, a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction, and a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction. An output from the array of collector electrodes indicates an angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid airflow.

[0106]

[0115] Example 25 includes the sensor of example 24, further comprising an array of current sensors, wherein each sensor in the array of current sensors is coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes and configured to output a sensor signal.

[0107]

[0116] Example 26 includes the sensor of example 25, further comprising a processor coupled to receive sensor signals from the array of current sensors, the processor configured to calculate an angle of attack parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between respective magnitudes of the currents associated with the sensor signals, wherein a direction of relative movement of the fluid airflow is indicated by the angular direction parameter value.

[0108]

[0117] Example 27 includes the sensor of example 26, in which the processor is configured to calculate the angular orientation parameter value based at least in part on peaks of current in the array of collector electrodes.

[0109]

[0118] Example 28 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 27, wherein the emitter electrode is configured to provide an electrical potential between the emitter electrode and the array of collector electrodes.

[0110]

[0119] Example 29 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 28, wherein the first location includes a location extending above a boundary layer associated with the relative movement of the fluid airflow.

[0111]

[0120] Example 30 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 29, wherein the emitter electrode is shaped to define an apex for focusing the field ionization.

[0112]

[0121] Example 31 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 30, wherein at least one collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes has a blunted shape.

[0113]

[0122] Example 32 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 31, in which the first set of collector electrodes includes a first plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a first direction, the first plurality of electrodes angularly offset from one another over a first range of interest associated with a first angle of relative movement of the fluid airflow.

[0114]

[0123] Example 33 includes the sensor of example 32, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are substantially equally angularly spaced across a first range of interest.

[0115]

[0124] Example 34 includes the sensor of example 32 or 33, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are positioned equidistant from the emitter electrode.

[0116]

[0125] Example 35 includes the sensor of any one of examples 32 to 34, wherein the first set of electrodes includes 12 electrodes.

[0117]

[0126] Example 36 includes the sensor of example 35, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are spaced apart by approximately 5 degrees.

[0118]

[0127] Example 37 includes the sensor of any one of examples 32 to 36, wherein the first range of interest includes an approximately 30 degree arc relative to the first collector electrode along the first direction.

[0119]

[0128] Example 38 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 37, in which the second set of collector electrodes includes a second plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a second direction, the second plurality of electrodes angularly offset from one another over a second range of interest associated with a second angle of relative movement of the fluid airstream.

[0120]

[0129] Example 39 includes the sensor of example 38, wherein the second plurality of electrodes are substantially equally angularly spaced across a second range of interest.

[0121]

[0130] Example 40 includes the sensor of example 38 or 39, wherein the second plurality of electrodes are positioned equidistant from the emitter electrode.

[0122]

[0131] Example 41 includes the sensor of any one of examples 38 to 40, wherein the second set of electrodes includes 12 electrodes.

[0123]

[0132] Example 42 includes the sensor of example 41, wherein the second plurality of electrodes are spaced apart by approximately 5 degrees.

[0124]

[0133] Example 43 includes the sensor of any one of examples 38 to 42, wherein the second range of interest includes an approximately 30 degree arc relative to the first collector electrode along the second direction.

[0125]

[0134] Example 44 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 43, wherein the second location is sufficiently spaced relative to the first location to substantially prevent arcing between the array of emitter and collector electrodes.

[0126]

[0135] Example 45 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 44, further including a solid-state angle-of-attack sensor including an emitter electrode, an array of collector electrodes, and a DC high voltage power supply.

[0127]

[0136] Example 46 includes the sensor of any one of examples 24 to 45, wherein the relative movement of the fluid stream includes movement of the sensor within the atmosphere.

[0128]

[0137] Example 47 includes the sensor of example 46, where the angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid stream comprises the angular measurement output of the sensor.

[0129]

[0138] Example 48 includes the sensor of example 47, where the reference position includes a zero angle reference position, the first direction includes a positive angular direction, and the second direction includes a negative angular direction.

[0130]

[0139] Example 49 includes the sensor of example 47 or 48, in which the first set of collector electrodes includes a first plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a first direction and angularly offset from one another over a first range of interest associated with positive angle-of-attack measurements of the aircraft.

[0131]

[0140] Example 50 includes the sensor of example 48 or 49, wherein the second set of collector electrodes includes a second plurality of electrodes angularly arranged along a second direction and angularly offset from one another over a second range of interest associated with negative angle-of-attack measurements of the aircraft.

[0132]

[0141] According to Example 51, a method includes emitting charged particles at an emitter electrode disposed at a first position and exposed to ambient air. The method also includes detecting a current in an array of collector electrodes based on the flow of charged particles. The current is indicative of an angle of the airflow. The array of collector electrodes is disposed at a second position and exposed to ambient air. The second position is rearward of the first position relative to the airflow. The array of collector electrodes includes a first collector electrode aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position, a first set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction, and a second set of collector electrodes angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a second direction.

Claims

1. An aircraft (200), Exterior skin (202), an emitter electrode (106) disposed at a first location (206) proximate the exterior skin and exposed to atmospheric air (108), the emitter electrode configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode; and an array of collector electrodes (104) exposed to ambient air and disposed at a second location (208) adjacent the exterior skin, the second location being aft of the first location; each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes configured to detect a current associated with the flow of charged particles during movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere; The array of collector electrodes comprises: a first collector electrode (117) aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position; a first set of collector electrodes (110) angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction (114); and a second set of collector electrodes (112) angularly offset from the first collector electrodes in a second direction (116); An aircraft, wherein the output from the array of collector electrodes is indicative of an angle of attack of the aircraft.

2. 10. The aircraft of claim 1, further comprising an array of current sensors, each sensor in the array of current sensors coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes and configured to output a sensor signal.

3. 3. The aircraft of claim 2, further comprising: a processor connected to receive the sensor signals from the array of current sensors, the processor configured to calculate an angle of attack parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between magnitudes of each of the currents associated with the sensor signals, wherein the angle of attack of the aircraft is indicated by the angle of attack parameter value.

4. The aircraft of claim 3 , wherein the processor is configured to calculate the angle of attack parameter value based at least in part on peaks of current in the array of collector electrodes.

5. the movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere includes movement of the aircraft's lateral axis and movement of the airfoil's chord line relative to the airflow as the airfoil moves through the atmosphere, the lateral movement resulting in a change in the angle of attack of the aircraft; the reference position comprises a zero angle reference position; the first direction comprises a positive angular direction; The aircraft of claim 1 , wherein the second direction comprises a negative angular direction.

6. The aircraft of claim 1 , wherein the emitter electrode is configured to provide an electrical potential between the emitter electrode and the array of collector electrodes.

7. 2. The aircraft of claim 1, wherein the first location comprises a location elevated from the exterior skin and extending above a boundary layer associated with the atmospheric air during the movement of the aircraft through the atmosphere.

8. 10. The aircraft of claim 1, wherein the emitter electrode is shaped to define an apex for concentrating field ionization.

9. The aircraft of claim 1 , wherein at least one collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes has a blunted shape.

10. 2. The aircraft of claim 1, wherein the first set of collector electrodes comprises a first plurality of electrodes angularly disposed along the first direction and angularly offset from one another over a first range of interest associated with positive angle of attack measurements for the aircraft.

11. The aircraft of claim 10 , wherein the first plurality of electrodes are positioned at substantially equal angular intervals across the first range of the object of interest.

12. The aircraft of claim 10 , wherein the first plurality of electrodes are spaced equidistant from the emitter electrode.

13. 11. The aircraft of claim 10, wherein the first set of electrodes includes 12 electrodes.

14. 14. The aircraft of claim 13, wherein the first plurality of electrodes are spaced approximately five degrees apart.

15. A sensor (102, 204, 600) comprising: an emitter electrode (106) disposed at a first position (107) and configured to be exposed to a fluid gas stream (108), the emitter electrode configured to generate charged particles proximate the emitter electrode; and an array of collector electrodes (104) disposed at a second location (109) and configured to be exposed to the fluid gas stream, the second location being offset from the first location; each collector electrode of the array of collector electrodes is configured to detect a current associated with an electric field of the charged particles during relative movement of the fluid stream; The array of collector electrodes comprises: a first collector electrode (117) aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position; a first set of collector electrodes (110) angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction (114); and a second set of collector electrodes (112) angularly offset from the first collector electrodes in a second direction (116); The sensor wherein the output from the array of collector electrodes indicates the angular direction of the relative movement of the fluid streams.

16. 16. The sensor of claim 15, further comprising an array of current sensors, each sensor in the array of current sensors coupled to a respective collector electrode in the array of collector electrodes and configured to output a sensor signal.

17. 17. The sensor of claim 16, further comprising: a processor connected to receive the sensor signals from the array of current sensors, the processor configured to calculate an angular direction parameter value based at least in part on a relationship between the magnitudes of each of the currents associated with the sensor signals, wherein a direction of the relative movement of the fluid stream is indicated by the angular direction parameter value.

18. 16. The sensor of claim 15, wherein the sensor is a solid-state sensor including the emitter electrode, the array of collector electrodes, and a DC high voltage power supply.

19. The sensor of claim 15 , wherein the first location comprises a location extending above a boundary layer associated with the relative movement of the fluid-airflow.

20. emitting (702) charged particles at an emitter electrode (106) disposed at a first position (107) and exposed to atmospheric air (108); and 7. A method (700) comprising detecting (704) a current in an array (104) of collector electrodes based on the flow of charged particles, the current is indicative of the angle of the airflow; the array of collector electrodes is disposed at a second location (109) and exposed to atmospheric air, the second location being rearward of the first location relative to the airflow; The array of collector electrodes comprises: a first collector electrode (117) aligned with the emitter electrode at a reference position; a first set of collector electrodes (110) angularly offset from the first collector electrode in a first direction (114); and a second set of collector electrodes (112) angularly offset from the first collector electrodes in a second direction (116).

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