Refueling Boom Connection Detection Using Frequency-Domain Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for determining the connection of a refueling boom with a receiver aircraft are prone to false positives and negatives due to nozzle misalignment or operator subjectivity, requiring highly-trained personnel and adding workload.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize sensors on the boom to measure structural properties, convert signals to a frequency domain, and analyze modes to determine connection status without relying on physical contact sensors or operator judgment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If passive contact sensors are used to detect connection, then connection status can be detected, but false positives and false negatives occur due to nozzle misalignment or binding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based sensors with a signal processing system that analyzes boom dynamics. Sensors measure boom motion and structural properties, which are then converted to frequency domain and analyzed for modes to determine connection status, eliminating reliance on physical contact between nozzle and receptacle
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter being measured from contact force to boom dynamic characteristics. By monitoring changes in boom modes (frequency domain parameters) that occur when connected to the receiver aircraft, the system achieves more reliable detection that is not affected by contact alignment issues
2Ease of operation
If operator situational awareness is used to determine connection, then connection status can be assessed, but operator subjectivity and variability lead to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by having the boom system automatically determine its own connection status through onboard sensors and processing. The boom monitors its own dynamic characteristics and autonomously determines whether it is connected to the receiver aircraft, eliminating the need for operator judgment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces human operator assessment with an automated signal processing system. Sensors on the boom measure dynamic motion and structural properties, which are processed through frequency domain analysis to objectively determine connection status, removing subjectivity and operator variability
3Reliability
If contact sensors are used to detect connection, then connection status can be determined, but additional workload is placed on operators to verify sensor signals
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring boom dynamic characteristics and providing real-time connection status determination. The signal processing system analyzes boom modes and provides automated feedback on connection state, eliminating the need for operators to manually verify contact sensor readings
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
Accurately determines the connection status of the boom with the receiver aircraft in real-time, reducing errors and workload by using frequency domain analysis of sensor data.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the dynamic motion of the boom with a plurality of accelerometers mounted on the boom
Implementation Method 2
converting the signal output from the time domain to a frequency domain
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for determining the connection status of a boom of a tanker aircraft with a receiver aircraft. The detection utilizes sensors mounted on the boom. Signals from the sensors are converted from a time domain to a frequency domain. Modes within the frequency domain are identified and analyzed to determine the connection status of the boom with the receiver aircraft.