Coupling Module Position Sensor for Aircraft Door Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passenger boarding bridge coupling modules require manual operator alignment and control, often resulting in inefficient operation due to lack of training and time pressure, especially when quickly approaching aircraft doors that are higher than the bridge.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a position sensor and pivoting motor with a control unit that automatically aligns the coupling module and ground facility to a geodetically horizontal position, eliminating the need for manual horizontal positioning by the operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operator alignment is used to position the coupling module, then the operator can control the horizontal position of the ground facility, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming due to lack of training and time pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment by automatically determining its own horizontal position using the position sensor and adjusting the coupling module accordingly, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and reducing both operational complexity and time requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The position sensor provides continuous feedback about the horizontal position of the ground facility to the control unit, which then automatically adjusts the coupling module to achieve proper alignment, creating a closed-loop control system that simplifies operation and reduces time
2Reliability
If the coupling module is manually aligned by the operator, then the horizontal position can be adjusted, but misalignment occurs frequently due to operator inexperience and time pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical alignment process is replaced with an automated electronic control system that uses a position sensor to detect horizontal position and a control unit to automatically adjust the coupling module, eliminating human error and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically monitors and adjusts its own horizontal alignment using the position sensor and control unit, ensuring consistent and accurate positioning without relying on operator skill or attention, thereby improving reliability while reducing operational complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If a position sensor is added to automatically measure the inclination of the ground facility, then the horizontal alignment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Complex manual alignment procedures are replaced by a straightforward electronic measurement system using a position sensor that automatically detects horizontal inclination, and a control unit that processes the data and actuates adjustment, simplifying the overall system despite adding electronic components
Solution Approach 2:
The position sensor enables the system to self-measure its horizontal alignment status, and the control unit automatically processes this information to adjust the coupling module, achieving high precision alignment while keeping the control logic integrated and manageable
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
Simplifies the operation of the passenger boarding bridge by automatically maintaining the coupling module in a horizontal position, ensuring proper alignment with the aircraft door, reducing the risk of misalignment and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling module has a position sensor, by means of which an inclination of the ground facility in relation to a geodetically horizontal position can be measured
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a dome module (100) for coupling a passenger boarding bridge (1) to an aircraft, wherein the dome module (100) has a canopy (3) and a floor structure (4) spanned by the canopy (3), and wherein the dome module (100) and/or the floor structure (4) is pivotably mounted on a cabin (5) of the passenger boarding bridge (1) about a horizontal pivot axis (6, 6') relative to the cabin (5), wherein the dome module (100) has a position sensor (7) by means of which an inclination of the floor structure (4) with respect to a geodetically horizontal position can be measured.