In-flight Refueling Data Transmission via Boom Electro-magnetic Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication methods between tanker and receiver aircraft during in-flight refueling operations, particularly in radio silence environments, are inadequate for transmitting data messages effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an electro-magnetic connection for transmitting data messages, involving digital data frames, conversion to analog signals, and modulation processes like Frequency-Shift Keying, allowing simultaneous data and voice message transmission between the aircraft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual signals and voice communications are used for communication between tanker and receiver aircraft, then the communication system is simple to implement, but the communication effectiveness and reliability are insufficient, especially in radio silence environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary electro-magnetic connection system between the tanker and receiver aircraft. This intermediary system converts digital data frames into analog signals suitable for transmission through the existing electro-magnetic connection (coils 17, 18), enabling reliable data communication without requiring new dedicated communication channels or complex external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual signal transmission system (PDL lights and visual gestures) with an electro-magnetic signal transmission system. By converting digital data into analog electro-magnetic signals that can be transmitted through the existing coils in the boom connection, the system achieves more reliable and information-rich communication while utilizing existing physical infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the existing electro-magnetic connection is used for both contact detection and audio communication, then the system structure is simplified, but the communication capability is limited and cannot transmit data messages effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing electro-magnetic connection system universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: contact detection, audio communication, and digital data message transmission. The same coils (17 in the boom nozzle, 18 in the receptacle) that were originally used only for audio intercom now also carry modulated data signals, eliminating the need for separate communication channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the electro-magnetic connection by introducing Frequency-Shift Keying (FSK) modulation. Digital data frames are converted to analog signals with specific frequency deviations (f2 for logic 0, f3 for logic 1) that can be transmitted through the existing electro-magnetic connection. This parameter transformation enables data communication without requiring new hardware infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If digital data frames are transmitted through the electro-magnetic connection, then communication precision and information transfer are improved, but the signal transmission and reception process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication process into distinct functional blocks: a transmitting device in the tanker aircraft that converts digital data frames to analog signals, and a receiving device in the receiver aircraft that converts analog signals back to digital data frames. This segmentation allows each end to handle only the conversion process, simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling precise digital communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms in the signal conversion process. The transmitting device monitors the digital data frame conversion to analog signal, and the receiving device verifies the analog-to-digital conversion accuracy. This feedback ensures data integrity and transmission precision, allowing the system to correct errors and maintain high communication reliability despite the complexity of signal conversion.
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
Enables reliable and efficient digital communication between tanker and receiver aircraft, enhancing the precision and safety of in-flight refueling operations, especially in radio silence environments.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting the signal obtained in the previous step to the target aircraft via said electro-magnetic connection
Implementation Method 2
the transformation of the digital data signal into an analog data signal is performed by means of a Frequency-Shift Keying modulation process obtaining a modulated signal in two frequencies f2, f3 for the logic levels 0 and 1
Data Source
AI summary
Transmission of data and audio messages between tanker and receiver aircrafts to facilitate air refueling operations using a boom device, wherein the method includes transmitting a data message from one aircraft to the other aircraft as an analog signal via the electro-magnetic connection which is also used for transmission of audio messages between the aircrafts which may be operating in a radio silence environment.