Linear Position Sensor for Compact Aircraft Folding Wings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotary position sensors are too large in volume, making them unsuitable for the compact space requirements of aircraft with folding wing configurations, where accurate feedback control of the wing tip position is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A linear position sensor apparatus and method that utilize a follower and sensor arm system with a follower track, either eccentric or helical, to convert rotational motion of a rotary actuator into linear displacement, allowing for compact and accurate position sensing within the constrained space of a folding wing aircraft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional rotary position sensor is used, then accurate position measurement is achieved, but the sensor volume becomes too large for the compact folding wing system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional rotary position sensor with a linear position sensor system that uses a follower track and linear sensor. This substitution transforms the measurement approach from direct rotary sensing to linear displacement sensing, achieving compactness while maintaining measurement accuracy through the geometric relationship between the follower track geometry and rotational motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the rotational motion measurement into linear displacement measurement by introducing a follower track with specific geometric characteristics. The linear sensor measures displacement along a linear axis, and through the follower track's geometric design (eccentric or helical), this linear measurement is transformed to represent the rotational position, achieving compact packaging.
2Volume of moving object
If the space envelope around the folding wing is minimized, then compact configuration is achieved, but the sensor must be lightweight and sensitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes in the follower track geometry (eccentricity, helical parameters) to optimize the relationship between rotational motion and linear displacement. By adjusting these geometric parameters, the system achieves maximum measurement sensitivity within the constrained space envelope, ensuring accurate feedback control despite the compact configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The follower track acts as an intermediary mechanism between the rotary actuator and the linear sensor. It translates rotational motion into linear displacement in a controlled manner, enabling the compact linear sensor to accurately reflect the rotary position without requiring the sensor itself to be large or complex.
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
Enables accurate measurement of rotary actuator output in a compact form, fitting within the limited space of aircraft folding wing systems, while providing lightweight and sensitive feedback for precise control.
Implementation Method 1
the follower track may be arranged eccentric to the main rotational axis
Implementation Method 2
the follower track may be helical whereby it is configured to traverse in a circumferential direction around the main rotational axis and also in the axial direction along the main rotational axis
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus configured to measure the output of a rotary actuator unit includes a rotary actuator unit. The unit includes a stationary portion, a rotating portion, and a main rotational axis (L) that runs in an axial direction from a first end of the rotary actuator unit to a second end of the rotary actuator unit. The first end is opposite the second end. The apparatus also includes a linear position sensor comprising a follower, a sensor, and a sensor arm, wherein the follower is attached to the sensor by sensor arm; and wherein the sensor is attached to the stationary portion. The apparatus also includes a follower track attached or formed in, or on, to the rotating portion. The follower track is aligned in the circumferential direction that is perpendicular to axial direction of the main rotational axis (L). The follower is configured to follow the follower track.