Digital Air Data System with Integrated Sensor Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air data systems are difficult to maintain and costly due to their complex architecture and reliance on separate pneumatic tubing connections for measuring air data parameters.
Innovation Solution
An all-digital interface air data system with multiple air data components connected to centralized avionics systems via digital connections, providing redundancy, improved measurement accuracy, and easier maintenance through wireless or wired digital transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional air data systems use separate pneumatic tubing connections for each air data component, then measurement coverage is comprehensive, but system complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple air data components (Pitot probe, static ports, temperature probes) into integrated assemblies where each component shares common mounting structures and connection points. The pneumatic tubing system is consolidated into shared conduits that serve multiple sensors, reducing the overall number of separate connections and simplifying the system architecture while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal mounting structures and connection interfaces that serve multiple functions. For example, integrated probe assemblies simultaneously perform Pitot pressure measurement, static pressure measurement, and temperature sensing through shared physical structures. The pneumatic tubing system is designed as a multi-functional network that distributes pressure signals to multiple components through standardized connections
2Reliability
If conventional air data systems use separate pneumatic tubing connections for each air data component, then measurement coverage is comprehensive, but maintenance cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the air data system into modular integrated assemblies (e.g., combined Pitot-static probes, integrated temperature sensors) that can be independently accessed and maintained. Each module contains its own mounting structure and connection points, allowing technicians to service individual components without disturbing the entire pneumatic tubing system, thereby improving maintenance ease while preserving measurement accuracy
3Measurement precision
If air data components are placed in optimal locations for measurement, then measurement accuracy improves, but system installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested integrated probe assemblies where multiple sensors are housed within compact hierarchical structures. For example, temperature probes are integrated within Pitot probe housings, and static ports are incorporated into the same mounting structure. This nesting allows optimal placement of multiple sensors at precise locations while reducing installation complexity by treating them as single integrated units rather than separate components requiring individual mounting
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 system enhances reliability, reduces measurement errors, and simplifies maintenance by allowing optimal placement of air data components and integrated heating elements for de-icing, while mitigating signal degradation issues in traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
The system enhances reliability, reduces measurement errors, and simplifies maintenance by allowing optimal placement of air data components and integrated heating elements for de-icing
Data Source
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AI summary
An air data system (100) with a digital interface (103)includes least one air data component (102a-q), a receiving system (104a-c) and at least one digital connection (106). The at least one digital connection is between the receiving system and the air data component. A method (200) for transmitting data in an air data system with a digital interface includes measuring (202) at least one air data parameter with at least one air data component. The method includes generating (204) a digital signal representative of the at least one air data parameter with the at least one air data component, sending (206) the digital signal to a receiving system, and processing (208) the at least one air data parameter with the receiving system.