Force Gradient Switch With Non-Contact Proximity Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional force gradient mechanisms in aircraft control systems require frequent adjustments and are prone to mechanical wear, leading to reliability issues and inconvenience in maintaining proper operating conditions.

Innovation Solution

A force gradient design incorporating a non-contact proximity sensor, which eliminates mechanical contact and adjustments by using a spring and a proximity sensor to signal the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) state changes, reducing the need for manual alignment and maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a mechanical actuator mechanism is used in the force gradient switch, then the AFCS operation can be controlled, but frequent adjustments and maintenance are required due to mechanical wear

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforce gradient switch reliabilityVSAvoidmaintenance convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical actuator mechanism with a non-contact proximity sensor that detects the position of a target member on the shaft. This eliminates mechanical contact and wear, thereby improving reliability and reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining the ability to control AFCS operation based on cyclic stick position

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If a mechanical actuator mechanism is used in the force gradient switch, then the switch can control AFCS operation, but the mechanism requires frequent adjustment to maintain proper operating conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforce gradient switch operationVSAvoidadjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The proximity sensor provides contactless detection of shaft position, eliminating the need for mechanical alignment and adjustment. The sensor automatically detects the target member's position without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining ease of operation while eliminating time-consuming adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The proximity sensor system is self-aligning and requires no manual adjustment to maintain proper operating conditions. The sensor automatically adapts to the shaft position through its non-contact detection mechanism, making the system self-servicing and eliminating maintenance downtime

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of repair

If a mechanical actuator mechanism is used in the force gradient switch, then the switch can signal AFCS state changes, but disassembly is required to service inner parts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent accessibilityVSAvoidforce gradient switch structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By replacing the complex mechanical actuator mechanism with a proximity sensor and target member arrangement, the patent simplifies the overall structure. The sensor can be mounted externally on the force gradient housing and detect the target member on the shaft without requiring internal mechanical linkages, making components more accessible and reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution provides a more reliable and convenient control system with reduced mechanical wear, improved pilot feedback, and accurate filtering of intended and unintended inputs, enhancing the overall operational reliability and ease of maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

a non-contact proximity sensor mounted on the second end. The spring has a first position and is compressed to a second position so that the non-contact proximity sensor signals an AFCS to change state

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectProximity sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS7784340B2Force gradient using a non-contact proximity sensor

Publication Date: 2010.08.31 BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC

AI summary

An improved design for a force gradient using a proximity sensor is disclosed. A force gradient comprises a shaft having a first end and a second end. The switch includes a spring contained between the first end and the second end and a non-contact proximity sensor mounted on the second end. The spring has a first position and is compressed to a second position so that the non-contact proximity sensor signals an AFCS to change state.