High-Lift Assembly Control Feedback for Clear Pilot Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilot confusion arises in the control of an aircraft's high-lift assembly due to inconsistencies between the manually selected configuration and the automatically commanded configuration by the control unit, particularly during automatic functions.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a manual control device featuring a movable member that returns to a rest position and emits signals for distinct positions, connected to a lift control unit that generates control vectors based on sensor data, ensuring clear indication of aerodynamic configuration changes and preventing automatic control inconsistencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an autopilot automatically controls the slat and flap actuators regardless of lever position, then automation capability is improved, but pilot confusion increases due to inconsistency between selected and actual configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit receives information about the actual slat and flap positions from sensors and compares this with the commanded positions. This feedback loop allows the system to detect and correct inconsistencies between selected and actual configurations, preventing pilot confusion while maintaining automatic control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the manual control device and the actuators. It processes the pilot's lever position input, determines the appropriate configuration based on control laws and sensor data, and commands the actuators accordingly. This intermediary function resolves the conflict between manual selection and automatic execution by intelligently mediating between the two.
2Reliability
If control laws prohibit flap and slat extension based on current speed, then flight safety is improved, but control responsiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control laws are designed to be dynamic rather than static, continuously adjusting their restrictions based on real-time speed measurements from sensors. As speed changes during flight, the control laws automatically modify their prohibitions and allowances, enabling safe yet responsive control that adapts to current flight conditions rather than applying fixed limitations.
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 system effectively reduces pilot confusion by providing clear visual and signal-based feedback on aerodynamic configuration changes, ensuring consistent manual and automatic control of the high-lift assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a device for resiliently returning the movable member to the rest position
Data Source
AI summary
A control system is for a high lift assembly of an aircraft. The assembly is controllable in two aerodynamic configurations each with different lift. The control system includes a manual control device operable by a pilot of the aircraft. The manual control device includes at least one member movable relative to a base body. The movable member can be moved relative to the base body between a rest position, a first position and a second distinct position. The manual control device includes a resilient return device for the movable member in the rest position. The manual control device issues a signal when the movable member reaches either the first or second position, to move the high lift assembly between two of the aerodynamic configurations.