Force Measurement System Using Strain Gauge Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for measuring the force exerted by a pilot on a control stick in air vehicles, especially during flight tests, lack accuracy and require manual methods or additional equipment, which are impractical and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A force measurement system utilizing strain gauge arms connected to a control stick, a trim actuator, and a control unit with an algorithm that calculates the pilot's force exerted on the stick or pedals by processing data from sensors and positional changes, without the need for extra equipment, using strain gauge arms and sensors to measure strain and generate force data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual force measurement methods are used in ground tests, then the force values can be obtained, but the accuracy and reliability are insufficient for flight test conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical force measurement with an automated electronic measurement system using strain gauge arms and sensors. The strain gauge arms convert mechanical force into electrical signals that are processed by a control unit, eliminating the need for manual operation while improving measurement accuracy and reliability for flight test conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-calibration and automatic data processing through the control unit. The system automatically calculates force values from sensor readings and trim actuator positions without requiring manual intervention, enabling the system to serve itself during both ground and flight tests.
2Extent of automation
If force transducers are used during flight tests, then automated measurement is achieved, but additional equipment increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauge arms are designed to serve multiple functions: they act as both structural support elements for the control stick and as sensing elements for force measurement. The control unit processes multiple types of data (sensor readings, trim actuator positions) to perform both control and measurement functions, reducing the need for separate dedicated measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the force measurement function with the existing control stick structure by integrating strain gauge arms into the control line. This merging of measurement functionality with existing structural components avoids adding separate complex measurement equipment, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation.
3Measurement precision
If strain gauge arms are integrated into the control stick, then measurement accuracy improves, but the system requires sophisticated algorithms for accurate force calculation
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit implements feedback processing by continuously monitoring sensor readings and trim actuator positions, then adjusting force calculations based on the relationship between these variables. The algorithm uses feedback from multiple data sources to compensate for system variations and improve measurement accuracy, making the sophisticated algorithm necessary for achieving precise force measurements from the integrated strain gauge arms.
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
Provides accurate and practical force measurement calculations for pilots on air vehicle control elements during both prototype and flight stages, enhancing measurement accuracy and eliminating the need for additional equipment, thus improving pilot comfort and system design.
Implementation Method 1
at least one strain gauge arm located on the body in connection with the control stick, for measuring a strain for the control stick
Data Source
AI summary
A control stick extending outward from a body located at an air vehicle enables the pilot to control tasks such as position and speed of the air vehicle. A strain gauge arm located on a control line in connection with the control stick measures a strain transferred to the control stick. A trim actuator located on the related strain gauge arm on the control line measures positional changes of the air vehicle. A sensor located on the strain gauge arm generates force data at a rate predetermined by the user upon a force exerted on the control stick. A control unit receives force data from sensors and positional percentage values from the trim actuator.