Cockpit Control Simulation Using Robotic Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The traditional method of designing aircraft cockpit controls is time- and cost-intensive, requiring multiple iterative mock-ups for pilot feedback, which can lead to settling for 'good enough' designs rather than ideal configurations due to the lengthy process.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing computer-controlled robotic or haptic arms in a cockpit simulator, allowing for quick repositioning and adjustment of control members to simulate various ergonomic configurations and force feedback, connected to a flight simulator computer for real-time feedback and virtual reality immersion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional iterative mock-up process is used for cockpit control design, then pilot feedback can be obtained for evaluation, but the design process becomes very time- and cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtual reality copies and simulations of cockpit controls instead of physical mock-ups. The system renders virtual cockpit environments with controllable parameters, allowing multiple design iterations to be tested without building new physical prototypes each time. This dramatically reduces both time and cost while maintaining the ability to gather pilot feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of control parameters within the virtual reality system. Key parameters such as control position, movement range, and force feedback can be modified in real-time during pilot testing, eliminating the need for static physical mock-ups and enabling rapid iteration through software-based changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple physical mock-ups are created for iterative design, then different control configurations can be evaluated, but manufacturing and setup costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual reality system serves multiple functions: it can simulate different cockpit layouts, control configurations, and even different aircraft types within the same platform. A single VR system replaces the need to manufacture multiple specialized physical mock-ups, providing universal testing capability across various design scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic modification of control parameters including position, range of motion, force feedback characteristics, and grip locations. These parameters can be adjusted through software without any physical manufacturing, enabling rapid exploration of different control configurations at negligible cost.
3Measurement precision
If detailed iterative testing is performed on each control aspect separately, then optimal control design can be achieved, but the overall design process extends over many months
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual reality system enables continuous testing and iteration without the interruptions inherent in physical mock-up production and setup. Pilots can provide feedback and design parameters can be adjusted in real-time, maintaining continuous productive action throughout the design process rather than pausing for manufacturing cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows preliminary testing of multiple control configurations before finalizing any design decision. Virtual prototypes can be rapidly created and tested, with results informing subsequent iterations, thereby performing useful evaluation actions in advance without committing to expensive physical manufacturing.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for simulating pilot controls in a cockpit simulator by controlling one or more arms (3,4), on which is/are mounted a control grip (7), pedal or the like, to locate the grip at different positions and allow movement of the grip in a plurality of movement directions and trajectories while allowing varying force feedback.