Propulsion Nacelle Force Detection Using Segmented Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the direction and amplitude of forces applied to a propulsion nacelle, such as those from impacts with floating objects, require a large number of stress sensors to be installed and calibrated over its surface, which is complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that measure mechanical deformations between a static and movable portion of the nacelle using a limited set of angularly distributed sensors, processing distance measurements to determine force direction and amplitude, with optional finite element method calculations and threshold-based data saving for impact analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If stress sensors are arranged over the entire surface of the moveable housing to ensure precise measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The housing surface is segmented into discrete measurement zones where only specific sensors are positioned at critical locations (front, rear, sides) rather than covering the entire surface. This segmentation allows precise measurement of impact forces from different directions while reducing the total sensor count and installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each stress sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: measuring impact force magnitude, determining impact direction, and providing structural mounting integration. This multi-functionality allows fewer sensors to achieve comprehensive measurement coverage, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple stress sensors are installed and calibrated across the housing surface, then measurement coverage is improved, but installation time and calibration effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor mounting positions and calibration parameters are predetermined during the design phase based on finite element analysis and expected impact scenarios. Sensors are pre-configured with their specific measurement zones and calibration factors, allowing rapid installation without time-consuming on-site calibration for each sensor position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes automated calibration routines that use feedback from test impacts to automatically adjust sensor sensitivity and zero-point offsets. This feedback mechanism reduces manual calibration time while ensuring reliable measurement coverage across all sensor positions.
3Ease of operation
If a single calibration step is used for the sensor system, then ease of installation is improved, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses parameter changes in the measurement approach rather than multiple calibration steps. A single calibration establishes the baseline relationship between sensor output and force magnitude, while the measurement system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters (such as sensor weighting and combination algorithms) based on the specific impact scenario being measured, maintaining precision through adaptive parameter selection rather than repeated calibration.
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 approach simplifies the determination of force characteristics with fewer sensors and a single calibration step, enabling efficient monitoring of propulsion nacelle impacts and scheduling maintenance operations.
Implementation Method 1
the mechanical deformations being applied to the movable portion under the effect of said force are measured by measuring a distance between the static portion and the movable portion in the direction of application of the force
Implementation Method 2
the distance measurements are processed to determine the amplitude and direction of the force
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the direction and the amplitude of a force applied to a system (IO) comprising a stationary portion (13) and a mobile portion (12) which can deform when exposed to said force. Mechanical deformations applied to the mobile portion when exposed to said force are measured by measuring a distance between the stationary portion and the mobile portion in the direction of application of the force, and the distance measurements are processed in order to determine the amplitude and the direction of the force.