Optical Air Data System Dynamic Recalibration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical air data systems require frequent recalibration of conversion coefficients, leading to high maintenance costs and the need for certified devices.
Innovation Solution
A system that combines a pressure air data system and an optical air data system, with a system processor that dynamically recalibrates the optical air data system's conversion coefficients using a Kalman filter, allowing for continuous optimization of static air pressure measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If frequent recalibration of conversion coefficients is performed to maintain measurement precision, then measurement precision is improved, but maintenance costs and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pressure air data system and optical air data system into a unified hybrid system where the pressure sensor provides absolute reference measurements and the optical sensor provides continuous monitoring. The system processor merges data from both sensors, using the pressure sensor readings to periodically recalibrate the optical sensor's conversion coefficients, thereby maintaining measurement precision without requiring the optical system to be independently recalibrated frequently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the pressure air data system serves as a reference to continuously monitor and adjust the optical air data system's conversion coefficients. The system processor compares optical sensor readings against pressure sensor readings and automatically updates the conversion coefficients based on the discrepancy, creating a closed-loop feedback system that maintains precision without manual intervention.
2Measurement precision
If frequent recalibration is performed to maintain measurement precision, then measurement precision is improved, but maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid system enables self-service recalibration where the pressure air data system automatically serves as the reference standard to recalibrate the optical air data system. The system processor autonomously performs conversion coefficient updates by comparing measurements from both sensors and adjusting the optical system's coefficients accordingly, eliminating the need for external certified calibration services and reducing maintenance costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the conversion coefficients of the optical air data system based on real-time comparisons with the pressure air data system. By continuously adjusting these parameters (conversion coefficients) rather than performing full recalibration procedures, the system maintains measurement precision while minimizing maintenance activities and associated costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the optical air data system is used as primary with frequent recalibration, then adaptability is improved, but reliability decreases due to higher failure risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a redundant pressure air data system that serves as a backup and reference for the optical air data system. This beforehand cushioning ensures that if the optical system fails or produces inaccurate readings, the pressure system can take over or provide reference measurements for recalibration, thereby maintaining system reliability while allowing the optical system to serve as the primary adaptive sensor.
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 maintenance costs by minimizing the need for frequent recalibration, improves the performance of the optical air data system, and enables it to serve as a backup in case of pressure air data system failure.
Implementation Method 1
Optical air data systems can measure air density because of the proportionality between the air density and the molecular signal backscatter intensity
Implementation Method 2
dynamically recalibrates the optical air data system's conversion coefficients using a Kalman filter
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a pressure air data system comprising non-optical air data sensors that interrogate a region of interest outside of a vehicle to determine a first set of air data measurements comprising a first static air pressure. The system also includes an optical air data system comprising optical air data sensors that interrogate the region of interest to determine a second set of air data measurements comprising a second static air pressure. The second static air pressure is determined using conversion coefficients. A processor receives and processes the first static air pressure; receives and processes the second static air pressure; dynamically recalibrates the conversion coefficients by computing a correction factor; sends the correction factor to the optical air data system to update the second static air pressure; and outputs an optimized static air pressure based on the first static air pressure and the updated second static air pressure.