Helicopter Movable Sensor With Retractable Sheath
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Sensors located on the outer surface of helicopters are exposed to environmental factors such as dust, sand, and rain, which can damage them, and they also contribute to aerodynamic drag when not in use.
Innovation Solution
The helicopter features a movable sensor system with a flexible sheath that seals the sensor when retracted into the body, protecting it from environmental damage and reducing aerodynamic drag by allowing the sensor to be stowed away when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are located on the outer surface of the helicopter, then they can obtain flight data and detect external threats, but they cause aerodynamic drag
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is made movable between an extended position (for data collection) and a retracted position (for reducing drag). The sensor can be dynamically positioned based on operational requirements, allowing the system to switch between functionality and aerodynamic efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is nested within a cavity in the helicopter body when not in use. The sensor fits into a recessed space, allowing it to be stored inside the body structure, thereby eliminating its aerodynamic impact when retracted
2Reliability
If sensors are located on the outer surface of the helicopter, then they can obtain flight data, but they are damaged by external factors such as dust, sand, or rain water
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible protective cover made of elastomeric material is used to seal the sensor when retracted. This flexible shell conforms to the sensor shape and provides protection against environmental factors while allowing the sensor to move in and out of the cavity
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cover is positioned to cover the sensor before environmental damage can occur. When the sensor is retracted, the cover automatically seals over it, providing preemptive protection against dust, sand, and water
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective cover is added to seal the sensor, then the sensor is protected from environmental factors, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single flexible elastomeric cover is used instead of complex rigid sealing mechanisms. The flexible material naturally conforms to the sensor and cavity shape, providing effective sealing through its elasticity and flexibility without requiring complex joints or fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible protective cover is designed to automatically seal over the sensor when retracted without requiring active control mechanisms. The elastomeric material's natural properties enable it to conform and seal automatically, reducing the need for additional control systems
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 effectively protects sensors from environmental factors while reducing aerodynamic drag, enabling the sensors to function reliably and efficiently, both in and out of the body.
Implementation Method 1
a sheath (6) made of a flexible material, which seals the lateral walls in the first position (I) and the second position (II)
Implementation Method 2
The sheath (6) can be folded as the sensor (4) moves from the second position (II) to the first position (I)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a body (2); a cut out (3) located on the body (2); a sensor (4) located in the cut out (3) so as to move outwards from the body (2), and enabling the data requested by the user to be obtained; at least one control unit (5) that controls operation of the sensor (4); a first position (I) in which the sensor (4) is substantially located in the cut out (3); a second position (II) to which the sensor (4) is brought by moving, and in which the sensor (4) extends through the cut out (3) outward from the body (2).