Rotor Mast LiDAR Scanning for 360-Degree Foreign Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for detecting hazards near rotary-wing and VTOL aircraft are costly and require multiple non-cooperative sensors for 360-degree coverage, which is prohibitively expensive for many applications.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight LiDAR-based sensor module installed on a rotor mast that provides continuous 360-degree surveillance by emitting and scanning laser beams through rotation, with data processed to identify and report objects within a torus-like detection volume, using a self-powered system that wirelessly transmits data to a Processing Computer for alerting the pilot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple non-cooperative sensors are installed at separate locations on the airframe to provide 360-degree coverage, then object detection coverage is improved, but system cost and complexity increase prohibitively
Solution Approach 1:
The detection task is segmented into multiple passes, with each sensor covering a specific angular sector. The rotor mast rotation divides the 360-degree coverage into discrete angular segments that are sequentially scanned, allowing complete coverage with fewer sensors than would be needed for simultaneous static coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static sensor mounting to dynamic scanning by mounting sensors on the rotating rotor mast. This dynamic configuration allows a single sensor to cover multiple angular positions over time, reducing the total number of sensors required while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are installed for 360-degree surveillance, then hazard detection capability is improved, but installation cost becomes prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor functions are merged into a single rotating sensor package mounted on the rotor mast. The system combines the detection tasks that would otherwise require multiple separate sensors into one integrated unit that rotates with the mast, significantly reducing component count and installation cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor package mounted on the rotor mast serves multiple detection functions simultaneously - it can detect objects in various angular sectors, measure distances at different azimuths, and provide comprehensive hazard surveillance throughout the rotation cycle, replacing what would require multiple specialized sensors.
3Area of stationary object
If LiDAR beams are emitted through the rotor system, then detection coverage is improved, but beam blockage by rotor blades occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor package rotates with the rotor mast, dynamically positioning the LiDAR beams to be emitted between the rotor blades rather than through them. By synchronizing the beam emission timing with the blade positions, the system achieves complete angular coverage without blockage.
Solution Approach 2:
The LiDAR emits beams in periodic pulses synchronized with the rotor rotation cycle. Each rotation period includes emission windows when blades are in non-interfering positions, allowing beams to reach all angular sectors without blockage while maintaining continuous surveillance through repeated cycles.
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
The solution provides cost-effective, unobstructed 360-degree surveillance of the environment around the aircraft, reducing the risk of rotor damage and crashes by accurately detecting and alerting pilots to nearby hazards without modifying the existing mast and rotor system.
Implementation Method 1
Objects within the beam of the laser light (wall, person, pole, other aircraft etc.) reflect back a portion of the emitted laser light energy which may be reflected back and enter a detector
Implementation Method 2
Circuits may then measure the time-of-flight and determine the distance the light traveled (emitter to object to detector)
Implementation Method 3
As the mast rotates, the LiDAR is pulsed providing a range to objects near the rotor system as the LiDAR emitted beams are scanned through the 360 degree rotation of the rotor mast
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide for the detection/identification of objects near a rotary-wing/VTOL aircraft such as a helicopter, drone, or an eVTOL (electric Vertical Take Off & Landing) aircraft using LiDAR. Various aspects of the present invention may include installation of one or more LiDAR devices on a mast of a rotor system of a rotary-wing/VTOL aircraft. The LiDAR device(s) may be pointing outward from the central axis of the mast and may be aligned to avoid interference form the rotor blades. Multiple LiDAR devices may be oriented/pointed above, below or in-plane with the rotor system. As the mast rotates, the LiDAR is pulsed providing a range to objects near the rotor system as the LiDAR emitted beams are scanned through the 360 degree rotation of the rotor mast. A processor determines whether objects detected within the detection envelope/volume represent a threat or hazard condition to the aircraft.