Air Data Probe Edge Monitoring for Real-Time Failure Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft-based health monitoring systems lack sophistication in analyzing data for real-time prediction of remaining useful life and predicted failure of air data probes, requiring data transmission to a ground station and cumbersome updates to monitoring parameters.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic health monitoring system using an edge device with a processing unit, communication interfaces, and modular applications for real-time data analysis and prediction, including coarse data processing and dynamic application modules for advanced analytics, which sends outputs to a smart coordinator and cloud infrastructure for detailed analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If data is transmitted to a ground station for analysis, then complex health monitoring algorithms can be executed, but real-time prediction capability is lost and system response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments health monitoring algorithms into two categories: coarse data processing algorithms executed locally on the probe for immediate predictions, and complex algorithms reserved for ground station analysis. This segmentation enables real-time local predictions while maintaining comprehensive analysis capabilities at the ground station.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a spatial dimension to data processing by distributing computational tasks across two locations: the probe (edge device) for time-critical coarse processing, and the ground station for comprehensive complex analysis. This dimensional distribution resolves the contradiction between real-time response and analytical depth.
2Adaptability or versatility
If monitoring parameters are updated in current systems, then the system can adapt to new requirements, but the module must be removed and reinstalled increasing maintenance complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic parameter updates through a software-based configuration mechanism. Monitoring parameters can be modified remotely without physical module replacement, transforming a static hardware-dependent system into a dynamic software-configurable system that adapts to new requirements through updates alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical hardware update process (removal and reinstallation of modules) with a software-based parameter configuration approach. This substitution eliminates the need for physical intervention during parameter updates, significantly reducing maintenance complexity.
3Reliability
If heating element is used to prevent ice formation, then probe measurement accuracy is maintained, but prolonged usage leads to heating element failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary health monitoring of the heating element by continuously tracking its electrical characteristics. By detecting early signs of degradation through coarse data processing, the system can predict heating element failure before it occurs, enabling proactive maintenance scheduling that prevents measurement accuracy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback monitoring of heating element parameters (voltage, current, resistance) to detect degradation trends. This continuous feedback enables the system to adjust heating control strategies or alert operators to replace the heating element before complete failure, thereby maintaining probe measurement accuracy throughout the heating element's operational life.
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
Enables accurate real-time prediction of air data probe failure and estimation of remaining useful life, reducing the need for unnecessary probe replacements and minimizing operational disruptions.
Implementation Method 1
resistive heating elements are installed in the air data probes to prevent ice formation. To heat the probe, an operational voltage is provided through the heating element.
Data Source
AI summary
An edge device for use in a system for monitoring a vehicle-borne probe includes a first communication interface configured to receive sensed data related to a characteristic of a heating element of a first probe, a core application module configured to host a plurality of core applications, a dynamic application module configured to host a plurality of dynamic applications, and a processing unit configured to implement the plurality of core applications on the sensed data. The plurality of core applications includes a coarse data processing application configured to monitor and analyze the sensed data to generate a first data output.