Flight Control Position Sensor Using Pulley Rotation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to estimate the position of a flight control surface on an aircraft without using cumbersome sensing equipment that adds weight, particularly in confined aircraft structures, where existing solutions require modifications to the control system.
Innovation Solution
A flight control surface position sensor assembly that includes a position indicator on a pulley secured to the aircraft, which engages a cable associated with the control surface, using a sensor to detect the rotation of the pulley, allowing for accurate tracking of the control surface position without altering the existing control system or adding weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sensing equipment is used to detect control surface position, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device weight increases and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the existing control system components. By using the pulley and cable assembly that already exists for control surface actuation, and adding only a position indicator and sensor, the measurement function is separated from the need for complex traditional sensing equipment, thereby reducing weight while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified measurement system that copies the essential motion transmission path of the control system. By placing a position indicator on the pulley that mirrors the cable movement, the system captures control surface position information through a lightweight optical or magnetic sensor rather than heavy traditional sensors
2Measurement precision
If traditional sensing equipment is used to detect control surface position, then measurement accuracy is improved, but installation complexity increases due to confined aircraft structure space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the position indication function with the existing pulley component. By attaching a position indicator directly to the pulley that is already part of the control system, the patent eliminates the need for separate mounting structures and complex installation procedures required by traditional sensing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The pulley serves dual functions: it continues to perform its original role in cable-driven control surface actuation while simultaneously serving as a mounting platform for the position indicator. This multi-functionality reduces installation complexity by utilizing existing structural elements
3Measurement precision
If sensing equipment is associated with the control system, then control surface position can be measured, but the control system must be modified which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function from the control system's primary actuation function. By using a separate position indicator and sensor system that independently measures pulley rotation, the patent avoids integrating complex sensing elements into the control system's cable and pulley mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The position indicator acts as an intermediary between the pulley's mechanical rotation and the sensor's detection. This intermediary component translates mechanical motion into a detectable signal without requiring modifications to the control system's existing cables, pulleys, or actuation mechanisms
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
Enables precise estimation of the flight control surface position without adding weight or requiring modifications to the control system, accommodating confined environments and providing accurate tracking of linear travel and direction of the control surface.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor which senses rotation of the position indicator with rotation of the pulley
Data Source
AI summary
A flight control surface position sensor assembly for an aircraft including a position indicator positioned on a pulley wherein the pulley is secured to the aircraft and the pulley engages a cable associated with a flight control surface of the aircraft. The flight control surface position sensor assembly further includes a sensor which senses rotation of the position indicator with rotation of the pulley.