Aircraft Ground Power Connector With Integrated Sensor Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern aircraft face challenges in securely receiving power and data communications from ground systems due to heavy and difficult-to-manipulate power cables, potential security threats from unauthorized communication interfaces, and the risk of damage to onboard power systems from incompatible electrical power.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a power connector, power sensor, and controller that measures electrical characteristics such as frequency, phase, and voltage, and a data connector and sensor that analyze communication characteristics, preventing coupling if they do not meet specific target values, thereby ensuring secure and compatible power and data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If heavy power cables are used to support high power requirements, then power delivery capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power connection system is divided into multiple segments: a reusable aircraft power connector, a disposable power cable assembly with integrated sensor, and a controller system. The cable assembly is segmented into modular components that can be easily handled and replaced, reducing the operational burden of heavy cables while maintaining high power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A power sensor acts as an intermediary device integrated into the cable assembly, measuring electrical characteristics between the ground power source and aircraft power system. This intermediary provides real-time monitoring and enables automated control, reducing the need for manual cable handling and connection verification by ground crew.
2Power
If ground system power cables are made larger to support high power, then power capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power cable assembly includes an integrated power sensor that automatically measures electrical characteristics and provides feedback to the controller. The system performs self-verification of power compatibility without requiring complex external testing equipment or manual inspection procedures, simplifying the overall system despite high power capacity requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual verification of power compatibility by ground crew is replaced with an automated electronic measurement and control system. The power sensor and controller automatically detect and verify electrical characteristics, eliminating the need for complex manual connection procedures and reducing operational complexity.
3Loss of information
If separate communication cables are used for data transfer, then communication capability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to susceptibility to damage
Solution Approach 1:
Power and data communication functions are merged into a single integrated connector assembly. The same physical connection that delivers electrical power also establishes data communication links, eliminating separate vulnerable communication cables and reducing the number of connection points that could fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The power connector assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: delivering high-power electrical energy, transmitting data communications, and providing sensor feedback. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated communication cables, improving reliability while maintaining full communication capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments described herein provide systems and methods for securing electrical power and/or data communications between a ground system 102 and an aircraft 100 by monitoring characteristics of the electrical power and/or the data communications from the ground system. The ground system may be prevented from providing electrical power and/or data communications to the aircraft when the characteristics are different than expected.