Dual Redundant Actuation Control System for Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft actuation control systems face stringent reliability requirements due to the need for precise positioning of moveable components like variable area fan nozzle doors, with existing systems struggling to meet high standards of fault tolerance and error detection.
Innovation Solution
A dual redundant actuation control system with two independent component control channels, each connected to all actuators and sensors, ensuring continued operation even with failures in components or connections, and incorporating proximity sensors for accurate positioning and fault reporting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single control channel is used to control actuators, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability decreases due to inability to tolerate component failures
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent control channels (Channel A and Channel B), each capable of independently controlling the actuator. This segmentation allows the system to tolerate failures in one channel while maintaining operation through the other channel, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity by providing fault tolerance without requiring complete system redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter from single-channel control to dual-channel control, where each channel can independently operate. The patent implements this by providing separate control paths with independent wiring harnesses and control logic, allowing the system to maintain actuator control even when one channel fails, thus improving reliability while managing complexity through standardized dual-channel architecture.
2Reliability
If redundant control channels are implemented, then the fault tolerance improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple control channels into a unified actuator control system where both Channel A and Channel B can control the same actuator. The electrical connections are designed so that either channel can independently operate the actuator, and the system includes logic to detect failures in either channel or the actuator itself, providing error detection capability while managing complexity through integrated control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where each control channel monitors the status of the actuator and the other channel. The proximity sensors provide position feedback that is monitored by both channels, enabling failure detection. When a failure is detected in one channel or the actuator, the system can switch to the remaining functional channel, providing error detection capability while managing complexity through coordinated monitoring and switching logic.
3Reliability
If dual redundant control channels are used, then the reliability is enhanced, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control channels are designed with universal functionality where both Channel A and Channel B can independently perform the complete control function for any actuator. The wiring harnesses and control logic are standardized to allow either channel to take over completely if the other fails, providing continued operation capability while simplifying manufacturing through standardized multi-functional components and assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual redundant actuation control system for controlling a plurality of actuators for positioning a plurality of moveable aircraft components. The actuation control system includes a component controller. The component controller includes two component control channels. Each of the plurality of actuators is electrically connected to each of the two component control channels such that either of the two component control channels may control any or all of the plurality of actuators.