Multimodal Itinerary Planning With Dynamic VTOL Payload Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Challenges exist in creating a practical and safe urban VTOL network that provides a quality user experience while adhering to weight and volume constraints for payloads, ensuring proper seat stroking and payload distribution in VTOL aircraft.
Innovation Solution
Implementing distributed weight measurement using integrated load cells in various transportation modalities to accurately measure passengers, luggage, and other items, allowing for dynamic reallocation of payload compartments and seat attachments, and optimizing seating configurations based on real-time weight and volume data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If distributed weight measurement using integrated load cells is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The weight measurement system is segmented into multiple distributed load cells integrated at different locations (seats, floor, payload compartments) rather than using a single centralized measurement system. This segmentation enables localized weight detection while maintaining overall system manageability through modular deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
Integrated load cells serve as intermediary sensing elements between the payload (passengers, luggage) and the measurement system. These load cells are embedded in seats, floor, and compartments to indirectly measure weight through force distribution, providing accurate measurements without requiring direct contact with the payload.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic reallocation of payload compartments and seat attachments is performed, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seating configuration system transitions from static to dynamic by allowing real-time reallocation of passengers and payload based on measured weight distribution. Seats and payload compartments can be dynamically reassigned to optimize weight balance, center of gravity, and safety requirements during the boarding process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from distributed load cells to continuously monitor weight distribution and automatically adjust seating allocations. The measured weight data feeds into the allocation algorithm, which then reconfigures seat assignments and payload placement to maintain optimal weight balance and comply with safety constraints.
3Reliability
If accurate weight and volume measurements are ensured, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Different measurement precision requirements are applied to different locations within the aircraft. Load cells in critical areas (seats, payload compartments) provide high-precision measurements for safety-critical decisions, while other areas use less precise sensing. This local differentiation of measurement quality optimizes reliability while controlling system complexity.
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
Enhances safety and ride quality by ensuring accurate weight and volume measurements, enabling proper aircraft allocation and seat adjustments, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of VTOL operations.
Implementation Method 1
distributed weight measurement using integrated load cells in various transportation modalities to accurately measure passengers, luggage, and other items
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for planning a multimodal itinerary. The systems and methods may include receiving a transportation request (702). The transportation request may include a starting location, a final destination, and an estimated payload data. During a first leg of the multimodal itinerary (704), an updated payload data may be received. An aerial vehicle may be assigned to a subsequent leg of the multimodal itinerary (708) based on the updated payload data (706).