Remote Actuation System for Mechanical Interface Emulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for de-manning human/machine interfaces are expensive, time-consuming, and difficult to reverse, as they require custom solid-state interfaces that emulate protocols at an electrical level, making them unsuitable for temporary or reversible applications such as flight testing or contamination situations.
Innovation Solution
A remote actuation system with a modular architecture that includes imaging and switch modules, capable of capturing gauge readings and actuating mechanical switches, processes images to estimate values, and generates commands to control switches, allowing for emulation of the human interface protocol at a mechanical level, and is easily reversible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If custom solid-state interfaces are used to de-man human/machine interfaces, then the interface can be remotely controlled, but the system becomes expensive and difficult to reverse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a physical copy of the original instrument panel at a remote location, complete with identical gauges and switches. This copy allows remote operation without requiring complex solid-state interfaces, as the remote panel physically replicates the original interface's functionality and layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the human-machine interface into two separate physical panels: the original panel remains at the machine location while a duplicate panel is placed at the remote location. This segmentation allows the operator to be physically separated from the machine while maintaining full control through the duplicate interface.
2Extent of automation
If cable bundles are cut and solid-state interfaces are hardwired, then de-manning is achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and expensive to implement
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the original interface with time-consuming hardwiring, the patent creates a complete duplicate of the instrument panel that can be independently installed at the remote location. This copying approach eliminates the need for complex cable modifications and reduces implementation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The duplicate instrument panel is pre-configured and prepared in advance with all necessary connections and components. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid deployment at the remote location without requiring time-consuming on-site customization or hardwiring work.
3Extent of automation
If custom solid-state interfaces are implemented, then remote control is possible, but the original interface protocol changes
Solution Approach 1:
The duplicate panel exactly replicates the original interface's physical switches, gauges, and layout, ensuring that the same mechanical interface protocol is maintained. This physical copying preserves protocol compatibility while enabling remote operation, as the duplicate panel interacts with the system through the same mechanical interface methods.
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 cost-effective and efficient de-manning of human/machine interfaces, allowing for temporary or permanent removal of human operators, with the ability to adapt to various interfaces and protocols, reducing operational costs and simplifying the reversal process.
Implementation Method 1
a digital camera in the can that captures a sequence of digital images of the at least one gauge
Implementation Method 2
A light source may be provided in the can to illuminate the gauges
Data Source
AI summary
A remote actuation system for de-manning a human/machine interface emulates the interface protocol to interact with the interface at a mechanical level. The system may function autonomously or with a remote human operator. At least one imaging module and at least one switch module with the same relative positions as and a complementary relief to the interface's gauge(s) and mechanical switch(es) are mounted on the instrument panel. The modules may be individually mounted or provided on a remote actuation panel that fits over the instrument panel. A data cable connects the imaging and switch modules to a processing module having at least one computer processor configured to execute an image-processing sub-module and a switch sub-module to emulate the protocol to interact with the interface at a mechanical level. The estimate of the measured value may be fed back to generate the switch command to control the remote switch actuator.