Aircraft Inceptor Force Profiles for Tactile Mode Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilots of fly-by-wire aircraft face confusion when switching between different operating modes of the inceptor, as existing systems do not provide clear tactile feedback to indicate the current mode, leading to potential operational errors.
Innovation Solution
A control system for an aircraft that includes an inceptor with motors and a controller to apply variable force based on different tactile feedback profiles, transitioning between profiles to match the selected operating mode, such as rate command and attitude command modes, enhancing pilot awareness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating modes are provided for the inceptor, then the adaptability of the control system is improved, but the pilot's ability to detect and identify the current mode deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides tactile feedback through the inceptor that corresponds to the current operating mode. Different modes generate distinct tactile sensations (e.g., different force characteristics, vibration patterns, or resistance levels) that allow the pilot to intuitively identify the active mode through touch, eliminating the need for visual confirmation and solving the mode identification problem while maintaining multi-mode adaptability
2Ease of operation
If tactile feedback is added to indicate operating mode, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inceptor serves multiple functions: it acts as both the primary flight control input device and the tactile feedback display mechanism. The same actuator that moves the inceptor to control flight parameters also generates tactile feedback sensations to indicate operating mode. This multi-functionality approach improves ease of operation without significantly increasing device complexity, as the feedback capability is integrated into the existing control mechanism rather than adding a separate display system
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 system provides clear tactile feedback, reducing pilot confusion and improving operational accuracy by allowing pilots to intuitively identify and adjust to the current mode through the feel of the inceptor, minimizing reliance on visual cues.
Implementation Method 1
one or more motors connected to the grip portion to apply a variable force to the grip portion
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for providing tactile feedback via an inceptor. A control system for an aircraft includes an inceptor and a controller. The inceptor includes a grip portion moveable between a plurality of positions and one or more motors to apply a variable force to the grip portion. The controller is coupled to the one or more motors. The controller includes an electronic processor and a memory. The controller is configured to operate in a first operating mode, select a first tactile feedback profile associated with the first operating mode, and control the one or more motors based on the first tactile feedback profile. The controller is further configured to detect a transition from the first operating mode to a second operating mode, select a second tactile feedback profile associated with the second operating mode, and control the one or more motors based on the second tactile feedback profile.