Ejection Seat Sequencer Delay Control for Smooth Mode Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ejection seat systems lack flexibility and precision in timing delay control, often resulting in harsh transitions between deployment modes due to binary approaches based on altitude and airspeed boundaries, which can lead to increased injury risk.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a scalable configuration system with a lookup table and weighted voting system for time delay adjustments, allowing for gradual transitions and increased control over ejection seat sequencing, using sensors to determine optimal delay modes and parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If discrete modes and arbitrary boundaries are used for controlling time delay values, then the control system is simple to implement, but the transition between deployment modes is harsh and less precise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static discrete mode boundaries to dynamic continuous mode transitions. The sequencer continuously adjusts time delay values based on real-time sensor inputs (altitude, airspeed, acceleration) rather than switching between fixed discrete modes. This allows the system to adapt smoothly to changing flight conditions, eliminating harsh transitions while maintaining control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by using multiple sensor parameters (altitude, airspeed, acceleration) to dynamically determine time delay values. Instead of relying on single-parameter discrete boundaries, the system continuously varies time delay parameters based on the combination of sensor readings, enabling precise control while avoiding the limitations of arbitrary fixed boundaries.
2Reliability
If binary approaches based on altitude and airspeed boundaries are used, then the control logic is simple, but the injury risk increases due to harsh transitions between modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by implementing smooth transition protocols between deployment modes. The sequencer anticipates mode transitions and adjusts time delay values progressively rather than abruptly, cushioning the transition effects to prevent harsh changes that could increase injury risk. This proactive approach to transition management enhances safety by preparing the system for mode changes in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring sensor inputs (altitude, airspeed, acceleration) and adjusting time delay values in real-time. This closed-loop feedback system allows the sequencer to respond to actual flight conditions rather than relying on pre-programmed binary boundaries, reducing harsh transitions and improving ejection safety through adaptive control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed time delay values are used for each mode, then the system is easier to operate, but the flexibility and adaptability to different flight conditions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the sequencer to automatically determine optimal time delay values based on real-time sensor inputs without requiring manual intervention or complex operator decisions. The system serves itself by continuously adapting to flight conditions through automated sensor processing and dynamic mode transitions, maintaining ease of operation while maximizing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a sequencing system that handles multiple flight conditions and deployment scenarios through a unified continuous control approach. Rather than requiring separate fixed-delay configurations for different modes, the system universally adapts to various flight conditions (different altitudes, airspeeds, accelerations) using the same dynamic adjustment mechanism, enhancing both flexibility and operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
An ejection seat includes an ejection seat sequencing system. The sequencing system enables time delays to various components of the system, such the drogue parachute, the main parachute, and harness release cartridge. A sequence controller receives data for a parameter, such as airspeed, from at least two sensors. The sequence controller selects a sequence timing delay mode to implement the time delays for the components of the sequencing system. The sequence controller also accesses a lookup table in a database accessible by the sequence controller. The sequence controller uses a delay parameter of the lookup table to modify a time delay within the sequence timing delay mode, as configured by a user.