Aerial Refueling Positioning System Using Optical Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerial refueling systems face challenges in accuracy and reliability, particularly due to dependence on wireless data connections between tanker and refueled aircraft, which can lead to errors and time lags, and are not compatible with all types of aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system that uses one-way signal transmission from the drogue or boom nozzle to the aircraft, employing optical or acoustic signals detected by a receiver to automatically maneuver the aircraft into position for refueling, minimizing errors and ensuring compatibility with any aircraft type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If wireless data connection is used for two-way communication between tanker plane and aircraft to be refueled, then automation control is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to time lag and errors in the data link
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical signals (light) as an intermediary medium for position information transmission between the drogue and the aircraft. This replaces the unreliable wireless data link for position feedback with a direct optical signaling system that provides real-time, lag-free position information to the aircraft pilot or control system.
2Extent of automation
If two-way wireless data connection is implemented, then control automation is enhanced, but error likelihood increases due to time lag in the data link
Solution Approach 1:
Optical signals serve as an intermediary that transmits position information directly and immediately from the drogue to the aircraft, eliminating the time lag and information loss associated with two-way wireless data communication. The optical signals provide continuous, real-time position feedback without digital processing delays.
3Productivity
If existing aerial refueling system is used, then refueling of specific aircraft types is enabled, but adaptability deteriorates as not any unmanned aircraft can be refueled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal positioning system using optical signals that can be integrated with any aircraft type equipped with a receiver, regardless of whether it is manned or unmanned. The system provides a standardized interface for position information transmission that works across different aircraft platforms, making the refueling capability adaptable to diverse aircraft types.
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
The system significantly improves the accuracy and reliability of aerial refueling by reducing time lag-related errors and enabling refueling of any aircraft type, as the control unit processes signals to guide the aircraft to a precise connection with the drogue or boom nozzle.
Implementation Method 1
optical signals from the drogue are detected by the receiver on the aircraft
Implementation Method 2
acoustic signals from the drogue are detected by the receiver on the aircraft
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a positioning system (1) for aerial refueling of an aircraft (8) provided with a first means (10; 34) for connection with a second means (4; 36) arranged on a tanker plane (6), which first and second means (10; 34, 4; 36) are adapted to feed fuel from the tanker plane (6) to the aircraft (8). A receiver (14) on the aircraft (8) is arranged to receive signals from the second means (4; 36) and in that a control unit (16) on the aircraft (8) controls the aircraft (8) depending on the signals to steer the aircraft (8) to a position for connecting the first and second means (10; 34, 4; 36).