Unified Aircraft Inceptor With Haptic Feedback for Lower Pilot Workload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft control systems require multiple input mechanisms and complex feedback systems, increasing cognitive workload and system complexity, while also being inefficient in terms of mass and ergonomics, especially in varying flight regimes and environments.
Innovation Solution
A unified aircraft control system utilizing a single inceptor with integrated haptic feedback and passive soft stops, allowing for reduced input mechanisms and streamlined feedback, enabling efficient control across different flight modes without the need for direct thumb and finger manipulation, and incorporating an adjustable hand rest for improved ergonomics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple input mechanisms and complex feedback systems are used, then control precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cognitive workload increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple input mechanisms into a single inceptor device that integrates pitch and roll controls. The inceptor includes a grip portion with integrated control axes, eliminating the need for separate control sticks or wheels while maintaining full control functionality through a unified interface
Solution Approach 2:
The inceptor is designed as a universal control device that performs multiple functions simultaneously - controlling both pitch and roll axes, providing haptic feedback, and supporting various grip configurations. This multi-functional design replaces traditional separate control mechanisms with a single versatile device
2Measurement precision
If multiple input mechanisms and complex feedback systems are used, then control precision and reliability are improved, but cognitive workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inceptor provides self-service through automatic haptic feedback that guides the operator's hand to the correct neutral position and provides tactile cues for control inputs. The system actively assists the operator rather than requiring complex manual interpretation, reducing cognitive load while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The inceptor incorporates haptic feedback mechanisms that provide real-time tactile information to the operator about control surface positions and aircraft attitude. This feedback loop enables precise control with minimal cognitive effort by allowing the operator to feel the control state rather than interpreting complex visual or auditory signals
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed control systems are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different flight regimes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inceptor incorporates adjustable components including a movable hand rest that can be repositioned along the grip axis and variable resistance mechanisms that adapt to different flight conditions. These dynamic elements allow the control system to optimize performance across hover, transition, and forward flight regimes without requiring multiple fixed control devices
Data Source
AI summary
The aircraft control system 100 includes an inceptor with a set of primary inceptor axes and a set of secondary inceptor inputs. The inceptor can optionally include a hand rest, a thumb groove, a set of finger grooves, passive soft stops, and/or any other additional elements. The aircraft control system can optionally include a flight controller, aircraft sensors, effectors, and a haptic feedback mechanism. However, the aircraft control system 100 can additionally or alternatively include any other suitable components.