Node Orientation Detection via Accelerometer Vector Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
In aircraft systems with bussed network topologies, determining the physical location of components is labor-intensive and prone to errors, especially during installation or replacement, as opposed to point-to-point systems which require significant wiring and are heavier.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multi-axis accelerometers to evaluate the physical location of nodes within a network by comparing their acceleration vectors to a reference vector, with a controller using a lookup table to determine the logical function and location of each node, allowing for automated identification and mapping of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If bussed network architecture is used instead of point-to-point wiring, then aircraft weight is reduced, but determining physical location of components becomes labor-intensive and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables components to automatically identify and report their own physical locations through accelerometer-based orientation detection and wireless communication, eliminating the need for manual location recording during installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical identification processes with automated electronic systems using accelerometers, microcontrollers, and wireless communication to determine and transmit component location data
2Loss of information
If manual identification of component locations is performed during installation or replacement, then physical location data can be recorded, but labor costs increase and errors may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Components automatically determine and communicate their own location data through integrated accelerometers and microcontrollers, eliminating manual identification processes and reducing both installation time and error rates
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic location identification during the component installation process itself, rather than requiring separate manual recording steps, thereby integrating location data capture into the normal installation workflow
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 reduces labor costs and minimizes errors by enabling automated self-identification of components in bussed networks, maintaining accurate logical-to-physical mapping without the need for extensive wiring, thus balancing weight reduction with efficient installation processes.
Implementation Method 1
When there is no acceleration of the object, the accelerometer may measure its acceleration vector relative to the force of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for evaluating a physical location of a node in a network comprising a multi-axis accelerometer 102 installed in proximity to the node and in a deterministic spacial orientation, and/or a controller (202) configured to receive an acceleration vector associated with the multi-axis accelerometer and to evaluate the orientation of the node based on the received acceleration vector in comparison to a reference acceleration vector known to the controller and a look-up table in memory (206) configured to contain the logical function and a node location identifier for each spatial orientation. The node may comprise a system component.