Aircraft Part Control System Using Mobile Sensor Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft part inspection methods are time-consuming and prone to errors, especially for inexperienced inspectors, as they rely on visual identification of parts using serial numbers or barcodes, which can lead to discrepancies and require additional verification.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a mobile device with a sensor system to determine the presence of parts in specific locations by reading RFID tags and providing location information, reducing the need for visual identification and minimizing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection methods using serial numbers or barcodes are used, then inspectors can identify parts, but the inspection process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection system with an automated sensor-based detection system. Sensors (such as cameras, barcode scanners, or vision systems) automatically detect and verify part presence and identity, eliminating the need for inspectors to manually read serial numbers or barcodes. This substitution of mechanical/visual inspection with automated sensing technology simultaneously improves accuracy and reduces inspection time.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection system performs self-verification by automatically comparing detected part characteristics against expected part data stored in a database. The system autonomously determines whether parts are correctly installed without requiring inspector intervention for each verification step, thereby reducing both time and potential human error while maintaining high identification accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If inexperienced inspectors perform visual inspections, then the inspection process can be performed by any personnel, but errors increase and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing manual visual inspection with automated sensor systems and computer vision algorithms, the patent eliminates the dependency on inspector experience and skill level. The automated system provides consistent, reliable detection regardless of operator expertise, thereby maintaining ease of operation (any personnel can operate the system) while significantly improving reliability (consistent accurate results).
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated feedback mechanisms where sensor data is immediately processed and compared against expected part configurations. The system provides real-time verification feedback, automatically flagging discrepancies without requiring inspector judgment. This feedback loop ensures consistent accuracy regardless of the inspector's experience level while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple verification steps are performed to ensure part correctness, then accuracy improves, but the inspection process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple verification functions into a single integrated sensor system. Instead of separate steps for detecting part presence, reading identifiers, and verifying against databases, the system combines these functions into one automated inspection process. The sensor simultaneously captures part information, the system retrieves expected data, and verification occurs in a unified workflow, reducing process complexity while maintaining high accuracy through comprehensive verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated inspection system performs verification continuously as parts are installed or inspected, rather than through discrete manual steps. The sensor system continuously monitors and verifies part presence and identity, eliminating gaps between verification steps. This continuous operation maintains high accuracy while simplifying the process by removing the need for multiple separate verification actions.
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
This approach significantly reduces the time required to verify part locations and minimizes errors, improving efficiency and accuracy, especially for inexperienced inspectors working with new aircraft or vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A determination is made as to whether the part is present in the location with a sensor system in the mobile device when the mobile device is in a zone including the location
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for managing parts. Location information is displayed for a part on an aircraft on a mobile device. A determination is made as to whether the part is present in a location using a sensor system in the mobile device when the mobile device is in a zone including the location. A presence of the part in the location is indicated in response to the part being present in the location.