Galvanically Isolated Gas Sensor System for Aerospace
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft gas sensors used for detecting flammable gases in aerospace applications require galvanic isolation to prevent ignition sources, which is challenging with traditional copper wiring-based systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a galvanically isolated sensor system using optical communication between a power and communications module and a sensor module, where the sensor module is powered optically and communicates with gas sensors within an enclosed aircraft space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If copper wiring is used to power and communicate with gas sensors, then electrical power and data transmission are achieved, but the risk of ignition from electrical current increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical wiring system with an optical fiber communication and power transmission system. Optical fibers transmit data and power as light signals instead of electrical current, eliminating the ignition hazard while maintaining reliable communication and power delivery to gas sensors in flammable environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical fibers as an intermediary medium between the power/communication module and gas sensors. This intermediary transmits energy and information as light rather than electricity, creating galvanic isolation and preventing electrical sparks that could ignite flammable gases
2Object-affected harmful factors
If optical fibers are used for power and communication, then ignition risk is eliminated, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes optical fibers perform multiple functions simultaneously: data communication, power transmission, and galvanic isolation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems, actually reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced technology used
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
This solution effectively detects flammable and non-flammable gases while minimizing the risk of combustion from electrical current, ensuring aviation safety by using optical fibers that do not transmit electrical signals.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting the optical signal to a sensor module disposed within the enclosed space
Implementation Method 2
converting the received optical signal to an electrical signal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
An aircraft sensing system includes a power and communications module, a sensor module in optical communication with the power and communications module, the sensor module being disposed in an at least partially enclosed space within the aircraft, and at least one gas sensor in communication with the sensor module, the at least one gas sensor being disposed in the at least partially enclosed space. The at least one gas sensor is configured to sense at least one flammable gas species or non-flammable gas species, and the sensor module and the at least one gas sensor are galvanically isolated from the power and communications module.