Aircraft Airflow Probe Integrated Calibration Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft airflow data systems face a risk of calibration data mismatch between the airflow data probe and the Air Data Computer (ADC), which can lead to erroneous data outputs due to the lack of physical binding between the calibration data and the probe.
Innovation Solution
The method involves storing calibration data within the aircraft airflow data probe and enabling a remotely connected Air Data Computer (ADC) to automatically validate the correct calibration data without human intervention, thereby reducing the risk of human error and ensuring accurate data outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If calibration data is stored separately in the ADC memory, then the system allows flexible probe replacement, but the risk of calibration data mismatch between probe and ADC increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the calibration data storage with the probe itself by integrating a memory device into the probe assembly. This merging ensures that each probe carries its own unique calibration data, eliminating the risk of mismatch when probes are replaced or moved between different ADCs, while still allowing flexible probe replacement since the calibration data travels with the probe.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification mechanism (such as a serial number or unique identifier) that acts as a mediator between the probe and ADC. The ADC uses this identifier to automatically retrieve and apply the correct calibration data from its memory, ensuring proper matching without requiring manual intervention while maintaining system flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If manual calibration data loading is required, then system configuration is flexible, but human error and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the system automatically performs calibration data matching and loading. When a probe is connected to the ADC, the system automatically identifies the probe through its unique identifier, retrieves the corresponding calibration data from the ADC's memory, and applies it without requiring manual intervention. This eliminates human error while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing calibration data in the ADC memory associated with specific probe identifiers before the probe is actually used. This advance preparation ensures that when the probe is connected, the correct calibration data is already available and can be automatically applied, eliminating the need for manual calibration data loading during operation.
3Reliability
If calibration data is physically bound to the probe, then calibration data mismatch risk is eliminated, but maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a standard memory device (such as EEPROM or Flash memory) that can be integrated into the probe assembly using conventional electronics mounting techniques. This approach ensures that while the probe structure does gain additional functionality (integrated calibration storage), it does so using universal, off-the-shelf components that do not significantly increase manufacturing or maintenance complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft airflow sensor includes one or more pitot inlets, ports, and/or static ports and a calibration data memory physically storing calibration data with the aircraft airflow sensor probe. The aircraft airflow sensor moreover includes where the calibration data is configured to be implemented in an air data computer (ADC).