Aircraft Airbag Controller Using Dual-Sensor Cross-Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft airbag systems require controllers that can operate for over 10 years without battery replacement and be adaptable to various seat configurations, presenting unique design challenges due to their battery-powered nature and need for cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
An electronic module assembly (EMA) with a processing unit that receives signals from crash sensors and accelerometers to control airbag deployment, including test circuits for battery and relay functionality, and visual indicators to ensure system readiness, allowing for precise timing and adaptability to different seat configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the controller is designed to operate for 10 years plus 1 additional year without battery replacement, then the duration of action is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to battery degradation over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary self-tests before the battery is fully depleted, checking system functionality and battery status at predetermined intervals. This allows the controller to identify and address potential failures before they occur during actual operation, ensuring reliable airbag deployment even after extended periods without battery replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors battery voltage and system status, providing feedback on operational readiness. Visual indicators communicate system status to passengers, and the controller adjusts its operation based on battery condition, allowing it to maintain reliability throughout the extended operational period by adapting to declining battery performance
2Adaptability or versatility
If the controller is designed to be adaptable to various seat configurations without hardware redesign, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller uses software-based configuration rather than fixed hardware wiring. Seat configuration parameters such as timing requirements and sensor connections are stored in memory and can be programmed to match different aircraft seat layouts. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the same hardware to adapt to various seat configurations without physical redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed as a universal unit that can interface with multiple types of sensors, inflators, and seat configurations through standardized communication protocols. The same controller hardware can serve different aircraft models and seat arrangements by loading appropriate configuration data, eliminating the need for model-specific hardware variants
3Reliability
If the processor receives signals from both crash sensor and accelerometer before producing firing signals, then the reliability is improved by confirming sensor accuracy, but the response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors sensor status and pre-processes incoming signals even before a crash event is detected. By having signal processing routines ready and sensors continuously active, the system minimizes the time required to validate crash signals and initiate deployment, reducing the effective response time penalty of cross-validation
Solution Approach 2:
The controller adjusts its decision thresholds and signal validation parameters based on the specific crash scenario detected. By dynamically changing the criteria for signal validation based on the pattern and magnitude of detected deceleration, the system can reduce validation requirements in high-confidence crash scenarios, thereby reducing response time while maintaining reliability
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 EMA ensures reliable and timely airbag deployment, confirming sensor accuracy, battery life, and seatbelt latching, providing a cost-effective solution for diverse aircraft seat configurations while preventing accidental deployments.
Implementation Method 1
the electronics module assembly includes an accelerometer in addition to the crash sensor that produces a signal in the event of a sudden deceleration
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic module assembly for controlling the deployment of one or more airbags in an aircraft includes a power source, a crash sensor configured to produce a signal in response to a crash event and an accelerometer that is configured to produce a signal in response to a crash event. A processor starts a timer upon detection of the signal from the crash sensor. When the processor receives a signal from the crash sensor, the processor is configured to determine if a signal has also been received from the accelerometer and if signals from both the crash sensor and the accelerometer indicate a crash event then the processor reads a memory associated with an inflator. The processor reads a timing value selected for the inflator and fires the inflator when the timer has a value equal to the timing value selected for the inflator.