Electromechanical Actuator Reconfiguration Logic Testing Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a robust and efficient method to test the complex autonomous reconfiguration logic of multi-redundant electromechanical actuators in fly-by-wire systems, ensuring optimal, repeatable, and timely verification of their functionality, especially in safety-critical aircraft applications.
Innovation Solution
A comprehensive testing framework and methodology are developed to automate the testing of autonomous reconfiguration logic in multi-redundant actuators, capable of executing multiple test cases and analyzing output data to verify proper functionality and timing, even in corner cases and failure scenarios, using a combination of software and hardware components like programmable logic devices and computer models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual testing methods are used for autonomous reconfiguration logic, then testing can be performed, but testing time and effort are excessive and repeatability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system uses automated test case execution and result analysis that performs testing without continuous human intervention. The system automatically executes test cases, collects output data, compares results against expected outcomes, and generates test reports, enabling the testing process to serve itself and eliminating manual labor in each testing cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-defines multiple test cases covering normal operation, corner cases, and failure scenarios before actual testing begins. These test cases are prepared in advance with expected outcomes, allowing the testing framework to systematically verify autonomous reconfiguration logic without ad-hoc manual testing during execution.
2Reliability
If comprehensive test cases covering all scenarios are executed, then testing completeness is improved, but testing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing framework divides comprehensive testing into discrete, manageable test cases that can be executed independently. Each test case targets specific aspects of autonomous reconfiguration logic (normal operation, corner cases, failure scenarios), allowing the complex testing task to be segmented into reusable units that simplify overall test management and execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing framework is designed as a universal system capable of handling multiple types of test cases through a common execution engine. The same framework infrastructure executes all test cases uniformly, comparing outputs against expected results regardless of test scenario type, thereby managing complexity through a single multi-functional platform rather than separate specialized tools.
3Ease of operation
If automated testing framework is implemented, then testing repeatability and efficiency are improved, but initial setup complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The testing framework uses computer models that replicate the actuator's autonomous reconfiguration logic and behavior. These virtual copies allow testing to be performed on simulated systems rather than requiring multiple physical actuators, enabling repeated testing of the same logic without additional hardware complexity while maintaining testing fidelity.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework introduces programmable logic devices as intermediaries between the test cases and the actuator system. These devices facilitate automated test execution and data collection, acting as a mediator that handles the complexity of automated testing infrastructure while presenting a simplified interface for test case management and result analysis.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for testing autonomous reconfiguration logic for an electromechanical actuator includes executing a plurality of test cases against a computer model configured and operable to implement autonomous reconfiguration logic for an electromechanical actuator including a plurality of electromechanical motors to generate a first set of test results. The method further includes executing the plurality of test cases against a programmable logic device configured and operable to implement the autonomous reconfiguration logic for the electromechanical actuator to generate a second set of test results and comparing the first set of test results to the second set of test results.