Aircraft Testing With Live Simulation Data Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft testing methods either rely solely on computer simulations or physical test aircraft, lacking a comprehensive approach to integrate and utilize both types of data effectively, which is costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that combines measurement data from a test aircraft with predictive data from digital simulations, allowing real-time comparison and synchronization of both datasets to identify differences, update digital models, and optimize aircraft design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If computer simulation testing is used, then testing cost is reduced, but measurement precision and real-time performance data availability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges computer simulation testing and physical test aircraft testing into a unified system. The simulation system receives actual performance data from physical test aircraft sensors and uses this data to update and refine digital models, creating a hybrid approach that combines the cost-effectiveness of simulations with the measurement precision of physical testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously receiving actual performance data from physical test aircraft, comparing it against simulation predictions, and using the differences to update the digital models. This feedback loop enables the simulation system to improve its accuracy over time based on real-world performance data.
2Measurement precision
If physical test aircraft with sensors are used, then measurement precision and real-time data availability are improved, but device complexity and testing cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy (digital model) of the physical test aircraft that replicates its performance characteristics. This digital twin allows the system to analyze performance data without requiring complex physical modifications to the actual aircraft, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision through the digital representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system makes the digital model universal by using it for multiple purposes: predicting performance, analyzing sensor data, identifying differences between simulation and actual performance, and updating models. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate testing systems and simplifies the overall testing approach.
3Device complexity
If separate testing processes are used for simulation and physical testing, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and time efficiency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate simulation and physical testing processes into a unified integrated system. The simulation system and physical test aircraft work together seamlessly, with real-time data exchange between the two, thereby improving productivity and testing efficiency while maintaining manageable device complexity through structured integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by using simulation models to predict performance before physical testing occurs. This allows for pre-analysis and preparation, enabling more efficient use of physical test aircraft time and resources, thereby improving overall productivity without requiring complex separate testing processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of evaluating aircraft behavior. The systems and methods perform simulated testing using computer-based models to determine predicted behavior of the aircraft. The systems and methods further use measurement data collected during operation of a test aircraft to determine actual behavior of the aircraft. The systems and methods provide for comparing the predicted and actual behaviors to provide for more accurate analysis of the aircraft. In some examples, the systems and methods provide for live flight test optimization which eliminates and/or reduces the need for extraneous flight testing.