Computer-Aided Sensor Alignment for Aircraft Platforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aligning sensors on aircraft platforms are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to errors due to the need for manual handling of gyroscopic reference units, which are affected by Earth's movement, requiring leveling and precise tooling at each sensor location.
Innovation Solution
A computer-aided measurement system that uses a platform model and graphical user interface to generate instructions for computer-aided measurement devices to automatically align sensors, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing error by calculating alignments based on measurements taken at multiple feature locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual gyroscope handling and measurement process is used, then measurement capability is achieved, but time consumption and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical gyroscope handling system with an automated computer-aided measurement system. The system uses computer-controlled measurement devices to automatically position and measure sensors at multiple locations, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining measurement accuracy. This substitution directly addresses the contradiction by reducing time consumption without sacrificing measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-planning measurement sequences and pre-positioning measurement devices before actual measurements begin. The computer-aided system prepares measurement instructions and device positions in advance, allowing measurements to be executed efficiently without manual setup time at each location, thus reducing overall alignment process time.
2Measurement precision
If manual gyroscope handling is used, then measurement capability is achieved, but labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated computer-controlled measurement devices. The system automatically positions devices, executes measurements, and processes data without requiring manual handling of gyroscopes or complex tooling operations, significantly reducing labor intensity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-service by automatically positioning itself and executing measurements without continuous human intervention. The computer-aided system manages its own operation, including device positioning, measurement execution, and data collection, thereby reducing the operational burden on personnel while maintaining accurate sensor alignment measurements.
3Measurement precision
If extended measurement time is used to complete all sensor locations, then comprehensive measurement coverage is achieved, but gyroscope precession error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary planning of measurement sequences to minimize the time each gyroscope remains away from its reference position. By pre-optimizing the measurement path and sequence, the system achieves comprehensive coverage of all sensor locations while limiting the duration of each measurement cycle, thereby reducing accumulated precession errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the measurement process into segmented cycles, where measurements at multiple sensor locations are completed in rapid succession before returning the gyroscope to its reference position. This segmentation allows comprehensive measurement coverage to be achieved through multiple short measurement cycles rather than one extended cycle, reducing the accumulation of precession errors while maintaining reliability.
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 significantly reduces the time and labor required for sensor alignment, enhances precision, and minimizes accumulated error by automating the alignment process, allowing for more efficient data collection and improved sensor accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The platform is leveled with the Earth and the gyroscope is powered up and allowed to stabilize
Implementation Method 2
A gyroscope is used to establish the primary reference location on the platform
Implementation Method 3
The gyroscope is removed from the primary location and placed in a tray at a sensor location
Implementation Method 4
the angular position of the gyroscope is zeroed so that the current attitude of the gyroscope can be the reference to which all future measurements will be registered
Data Source
AI summary
The different advantageous embodiments provide a method for alignment of platform features. A number of feature locations for a platform is identified using a platform model. A number of platform instructions for taking measurements at the number of feature locations is identified using the platform model. Instructions are generated having a number of measurement locations for each feature location in the number of feature locations for the platform.