Aircraft Controller Post-Ejection Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft ejection systems do not have the capability to control the aircraft after crew ejection, leading to costly losses and potential loss of life due to uncontrolled crashes.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a seat-aircraft communication system that includes a seat controller and an aircraft controller, which determines a desired landing destination, stabilizes the aircraft, and directs it to that location by sending command signals once the ejection seat is at a safe distance, utilizing a drogue parachute and main parachute for safe separation and navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an ejection seat is deployed to save the flight crew, then the safety of the crew is improved, but the aircraft is lost due to uncontrolled crashing
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft controller automatically takes control and executes landing procedures without human intervention after detecting ejection seat deployment. The system self-manages stabilization commands, landing gear deployment, and navigation to a safe landing location, eliminating the need for pilot input while preventing uncontrolled crash
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-programs stabilization algorithms and landing sequences that are automatically executed upon detection of ejection. The aircraft controller has pre-stored commands for various flight conditions and automatically selects and executes the appropriate sequence, ensuring controlled landing before the aircraft can crash
2Reliability
If the aircraft controller automatically controls the aircraft after ejection, then controlled landing is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft controller is designed to perform both normal flight control functions and emergency post-ejection control functions. The same hardware and software infrastructure is used for routine operations and emergency stabilization, eliminating the need for separate dedicated emergency control systems and reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A communication system acts as an intermediary between the seat controller and aircraft controller, transmitting ejection status signals and receiving control commands. This standardized interface layer simplifies the integration between subsystems and provides a clear protocol for automatic control activation without requiring complex direct connections
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 controlled aircraft landing after ejection, reducing loss and ensuring safer outcomes by stabilizing and guiding the aircraft to a predetermined or safest available location.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a drogue parachute and main parachute for safe separation and navigation
Implementation Method 2
The drogue parachute and main parachute create aerodynamic drag to slow down the ejection seat and aircraft separation
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for controlling an aircraft in response to deployment of an ejection seat (106) may comprise a seat controller (122) located on the ejection seat and configured to output a signal in response to initiation of an ejection sequence. An aircraft controller (124) may be configured to receive the signal from the seat controller. A tangible, non-transitory memory (142) may be configured to communicate with the aircraft controller. The tangible, non-transitory memory may have instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the aircraft controller, cause the aircraft controller to perform operations, which may comprise receiving the signal from the seat controller, receiving data signals from an operational data source, and sending command signals configured to control a component of the aircraft.