Optical Detector Fault Isolation via Signal Baseline Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems in aircraft face challenges in accurately fault-isolating degrading optical detectors, leading to incorrect information being provided to controllers due to contamination or component degradation, especially when multiple redundant sensors are present.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that compare optical signals from multiple detectors to determine faults by analyzing amplitude and decay rate against baseline values, generating a signal split parameter, and tracking it against historical data to identify discrepancies and determine which detector is faulty.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple redundant optical detectors are used, then reliability is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring fault location worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fault detection problem into distinct segments by analyzing different signal characteristics (amplitude and decay rate) separately. By segmenting the analysis into comparing amplitude agreement versus decay rate agreement, the system can isolate which specific detector is faulty without requiring complex overall system analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring optical signals from multiple detectors and comparing them against baseline values. The controller uses this feedback information to dynamically determine fault conditions and adjust system operation, enabling real-time fault isolation in redundant detector configurations.
2Measurement precision
If optical detectors are used, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability worsens due to contamination and degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes baseline values for optical detector signals before degradation occurs. By having these preliminary reference values stored and available, the system can quickly compare current readings against known good performance characteristics, enabling early detection of contamination or degradation effects on optical detectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous comparison of detector signals against baseline values creates a feedback mechanism that monitors detector health in real-time. This feedback allows the system to detect gradual degradation or sudden contamination events, maintaining reliability despite the inherent vulnerability of optical detectors to environmental factors.
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
Effectively isolates faults in optical detectors by distinguishing between optical and electrical issues, providing accurate fault detection and identification, thereby ensuring reliable sensor data and reducing maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
an optical detector configured to receive an optical return beam to generate an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with at least one aspect of this disclosure, a method of detecting a fault in a plurality of optical detectors includes receiving a first return beam from a first optical detector interrogation beam to generate a first optical signal indicative of an atmospheric condition from a first location on board the aircraft and receiving a second return beam from a second optical detector interrogation beam to generate a second optical signal indicative of the atmospheric condition from a second location on board the aircraft. The method includes, comparing each of the first and second optical signals with a baseline value to determine whether there is a fault in at least one optical detector of the plurality of optical detectors.