Adaptive Aircraft Brake Turnaround Threshold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the turnaround threshold for aircraft brakes are based on worst-case scenarios, leading to unnecessary delays as they assume the brakes are at the end of their lifecycle, resulting in overheating and potential failure during aborted takeoffs.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that measures brake temperature and heat sink mass using sensors and wear measuring devices, calculating an adaptive turnaround threshold to allow safe takeoff without overheating, incorporating factors like aircraft weight and air pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the turnaround threshold is determined based on worst-case scenario assumptions (minimal heat sink mass), then brake safety is ensured, but unnecessary delays occur in aircraft turnaround time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static, fixed turnaround threshold (based on worst-case assumptions) to a dynamic, adaptive threshold that changes in real-time based on actual brake conditions. The system continuously monitors heat sink mass and brake temperature, then dynamically calculates and adjusts the turnaround threshold accordingly. This allows the threshold to adapt to the actual lifecycle stage of the brakes, enabling earlier departure when brakes are in better condition while maintaining safety margins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by using real-time measurements of heat sink mass and brake temperature to calculate an adaptive turnaround threshold. Instead of using a fixed conservative value, the system changes the threshold parameter based on actual measured parameters (heat sink mass and temperature), allowing optimization of turnaround time while ensuring brake safety under actual operating conditions.
2Productivity
If the turnaround threshold is lowered to allow earlier departure, then turnaround time is reduced, but brake overheating risk increases during aborted takeoff
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring actual brake conditions (heat sink mass and temperature) and using this information to adjust the turnaround threshold. The system measures the current state of the brakes, compares it against safety criteria, and dynamically determines the appropriate threshold. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the turnaround threshold always reflects actual brake capability, allowing earlier departure when safe and preventing overheating by enforcing appropriate limits when brakes are worn.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces delays by allowing aircraft to depart when brakes are below a dynamically determined safe temperature, optimizing turnaround time based on actual brake condition rather than worst-case assumptions.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a brake temperature of an aircraft brake using a sensor
Implementation Method 2
determining a brake heat sink mass of the aircraft brake using a wear measuring device
Data Source
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AI summary
A method includes measuring a brake temperature of an aircraft brake using a sensor, 20; determining a brake heat sink mass of the aircraft brake using a wear measuring device, 22; and calculating a turnaround threshold based upon the measured brake temperature and the determined brake heat sink mass.