Refueling Boom Command Transformer for Aircraft Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of refueling boom controls across different tanker aircraft types requires extensive training and increases operational expenses due to varying kinematics and control systems, making it difficult for operators to intuitively maneuver the boom.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a command transformer to map operator inputs from a control stick into intermediate commands for roll and pitch movements, ensuring the refueling boom moves in a consistent direction across different types of tanker aircraft, aligning with the intended azimuth and elevation movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different control systems are used for different tanker aircraft types, then each aircraft type can be optimized for its specific refueling boom configuration, but operators require extensive training and operational expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to be universal across different tanker aircraft types (KC-135, KC-46, KC-10) by implementing a standardized interface that works with various refueling boom configurations. The system uses a transformation matrix that can be configured for different aircraft types, allowing one control system design to serve multiple functions across the fleet without requiring operators to learn different control mechanisms for each aircraft type.
2Manufacturing precision
If aircraft-specific control systems are used, then refueling boom positioning can be optimized for each aircraft type, but training time and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains positioning precision across different aircraft types by dynamically changing parameters through transformation matrices. Each aircraft type has specific kinematic parameters stored in a lookup table, and the system selects and applies the appropriate parameter set based on the aircraft type. This allows the control system to adapt its behavior to match the specific characteristics of each aircraft while maintaining a unified control interface.
3Measurement precision
If complex transformation matrices are implemented, then control accuracy across different aircraft types is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations by pre-computing transformation matrices for each aircraft type and storing them in a lookup table. When a refueling operation begins, the system identifies the aircraft type and retrieves the pre-calculated transformation matrix, avoiding the need to perform complex real-time calculations during the actual refueling operation. This reduces computational complexity during operation while maintaining high control accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus comprising a refueling controller (426). The refueling controller (426) is configured to receive a number of operator commands (424) for moving a refueling boom (412) on a tanker aircraft (408) in a desired direction. The number of operator commands (424) defines at least one of an azimuth movement (476) and an elevation movement (478) of the refueling boom (412) during flight of the tanker aircraft (408). The refueling controller (426) is further configured to generate a number of intermediate commands (458) for moving the refueling boom (412) in the desired direction as defined by the number of operator commands (424). The number of intermediate commands (458) defines at least one of a roll movement (480) and a pitch movement (482) such that the refueling boom (412) moves in the desired direction.