Angle-of-Attack Sensor Vane Inspection Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for checking the geometry and operation of angle-of-attack sensor vane assemblies on aircraft are inadequate, as they often require removal of the sensors for inspection, are not reliable, and can damage the vane assemblies, especially when damage is not visually apparent.
Innovation Solution
A device with specifically configured stages and optional instrumentation, such as photoelectric cells and lasers, allows for precise and reliable on-aircraft inspection of vane assemblies, including visual and detailed verification, using motorized stages, image sensors, and communication modules, facilitating quick and accurate checks without damaging the sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If visual inspection methods are used to check vane assemblies, then the checking process is simple and quick, but it cannot detect non-visible damage and is not reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple visual inspection with instrumented measurement systems including laser beams, photoelectric cells, and cameras to detect geometric deviations and damage of the vane assembly, enabling reliable detection of non-visible damage while maintaining quick checking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement device that includes a laser beam and photoelectric cell to detect geometric deviations of the vane assembly without direct physical contact, allowing reliable detection of damage while maintaining inspection speed
2Reliability
If rules or straight-edges are used to check for twisting, then the checking method is effective, but it causes difficulty in interpretation and may damage the vane assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical rules and straight-edges with optical measurement systems including laser beams and photoelectric cells that objectively measure geometric deviations without requiring manual interpretation, eliminating interpretation difficulties and avoiding damage to the vane assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copies and images of the vane assembly geometry captured by cameras and analyzed by processing means to determine deviations, replacing direct physical contact methods that cause interpretation difficulties and potential damage
3Measurement precision
If angle-of-attack sensors are removed for checking, then detailed inspection can be performed, but it increases maintenance time and reduces availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary checking of the vane assembly geometry directly on the aircraft using instrumented devices before the sensor is removed, allowing detailed inspection to be performed in-situ and reducing the time required for complete maintenance procedures
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 solution enables quick, reliable, and precise on-aircraft checks of angle-of-attack sensors, reducing interpretation errors and allowing for pre-flight or post-flight maintenance, while being portable and safe for the sensors, thus improving maintenance efficiency and reducing mechanical stress on the sensors.
Implementation Method 1
photoelectric cell
Implementation Method 2
laser
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices for checking the geometry of an angle-of-attack sensor belonging to an aircraft are provided. The device includes one or more stages, a stage comprising a slot the geometric dimensions of which are specifically configured to accept a portion of the said angle-of-attack sensor. The device allows a visual inspection but can also be instrumented (photoelectric cell, laser, camera) in order to verify the geometry of the sensor in detail. Developments notably describe the use of signal indicators, motorized stages, one or more image sensors, specific materials, communications with computers, or placement by drone and/or robotic arm. Software aspects are described.