Air Data Probe Cover With Insect Repellent Reservoir
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Solution Overview
Problem
Air data probes on aircraft are vulnerable to insect infestation when grounded, which interferes with their functionality and accuracy by allowing bugs to build nests inside the probes, leading to contamination and inaccurate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A cover for the air data probe head featuring a sleeve with a reservoir for insect repellent that disperses onto the probe head, preventing insects from nesting and maintaining probe functionality even when the cover is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the air data probe is left open for normal operation, then air data measurements can be taken, but insects can enter and build nests inside the probe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-treating the probe head with insect repellent before insects can infest it. The repellent is applied in advance during maintenance or installation, creating a protective barrier that deters insects from entering the probe while allowing normal operation. This resolves the contradiction by preparing the probe beforehand to resist harmful factors without affecting its measurement functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the probe is covered when grounded to prevent insect entry, then insect infestation is prevented, but the probe cannot perform measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by treating only the critical area (probe head and opening) with insect repellent rather than covering the entire probe. This localized treatment creates a protective zone at the entrance where insects would enter, allowing the rest of the probe to remain exposed and functional. The repellent is applied specifically to the probe head surface and interior near the opening, providing protection without requiring a cover that would block measurements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If insect repellent is applied continuously to the probe head, then insects are deterred, but the probe components may degrade from chemical exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by reapplying insect repellent at scheduled intervals rather than maintaining continuous exposure. The repellent is applied during maintenance periods, flight operations, or when insect activity is anticipated, allowing the probe materials to remain unaffected between applications. This periodic treatment maintains insect deterrence while minimizing cumulative chemical exposure that could degrade probe components.
Data Source
AI summary
A cover for a probe head of an air data probe includes a sleeve defining a cavity for enclosing a portion of the probe head of the air data probe, the sleeve including a closed end, an open end opposite the closed end, and an interior surface extending from the open end to the closed end, and a reservoir for holding insect repellent, the reservoir located at least partially within the cavity of the sleeve.