Artificial Hair Sensor Array for Real-Time Aerodynamic Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerial systems face challenges in predicting aerodynamic parameters in real-time due to delays caused by inertia and uncertainty in mathematical modeling, especially in flexible systems, which affects flight performance and stability.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising artificial hair sensors and a neural network that processes real-time flow data to generate a time-varying signal representing aerodynamic characteristics, allowing for simultaneous prediction of parameters like lift, velocity, and moment characteristics without obstructing the flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sensors and mathematical modeling are used to predict aerodynamic parameters, then the system can provide aerodynamic information, but delays occur due to inertia and modeling uncertainty, reducing prediction accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/mathematical modeling-based aerodynamic parameter prediction systems with a bio-inspired artificial hair sensor array that directly senses flow phenomena. The artificial hairs, made of glass fibers with carbon nanotube forests, detect flow conditions through physical deformation, eliminating the need for inertial measurements and complex mathematical models, thereby reducing prediction delays and improving accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent copies the sensing mechanism used by natural fliers (bats, locusts, crickets) who use distributed arrays of hair sensors to feel flow and increase flight maneuverability. By mimicking this biological sensing system, the patent creates an artificial hair sensor array that directly detects aerodynamic parameters without relying on traditional sensors and mathematical modeling, thus eliminating inertia-related delays
2Measurement precision
If a large number of traditional sensors are deployed to achieve fly-by-feel capability, then flow sensing capability improves, but system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin glass fiber hairs with carbon nanotube forests that can be densely distributed across the surface without adding significant weight. These flexible, hair-like structures conform to the surface geometry and can be arranged in dense arrays to provide comprehensive flow sensing coverage while maintaining minimal weight addition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sensing parameter from electrical signals (traditional sensors) to mechanical deformation of hair structures that directly correlate with flow conditions. The artificial hairs deform in response to flow, and this mechanical deformation is converted to electrical signals, providing a more direct and lightweight sensing mechanism
3Measurement precision
If traditional sensors are used to sense flow, then aerodynamic data can be obtained, but the sensors obstruct the flow and reduce sensing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial hair sensors are implemented as thin, flexible glass fibers that minimally obstruct the flow field. These hair-like structures have small cross-sections compared to traditional sensor mounts and wiring, allowing flow to pass around them with minimal disturbance while still providing accurate flow direction and speed measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from point-based sensor measurements to distributed surface flow measurements by deploying hair sensors across the entire surface. This dimensional expansion from discrete points to continuous surface coverage provides comprehensive flow information without requiring large individual sensor elements that would obstruct flow
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 delays in aerodynamic parameter prediction, enhancing flight agility, stability, and maneuverability by directly sensing flow phenomena, such as turbulence and gusts, and estimating aerodynamic characteristics with high accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
acquire flow sensory data in real-time of a plurality of dynamic parameters of the surface
Implementation Method 2
one or more artificial hair sensors comprises glass hairs
Implementation Method 3
the one or more artificial hair sensors comprises glass hairs. Additionally, the sensor comprises a carbon nanotube forest in co-axial orientation
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and associated methods for utilizing an artificial hair sensor to gather fluid flow data sensed on a surface. The artificial hair sensors are disposed on a surface to acquire flow sensory data in approximately real-time and for a plurality of dynamic flow parameters on the surface. The sensory data is based on a quantity of the artificial hair sensors that can be configured in an array of sensors. A mapping module, such as a neural network, is operatively coupled to the artificial hair sensor array and receives the sensory data acquired by the artificial hair sensors and generates a time-varying signal, which is based on the quantity of dynamic parameters. A real-time representation of the time-varying signal is generated.