Aircraft Rudder Bar Haptic Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft control systems for managing lateral trajectory on a runway impose a substantial workload on pilots, particularly when using differential braking, and can be uncomfortable for passengers due to heating issues and imprecision in steering and braking operations.
Innovation Solution
A control system with haptic feedback generators on the pedals to provide distinct force profiles for differential braking activation and end-of-travel positions, coupled with a mechanism to simplify pedal movement and coordinate actions, reducing pilot workload and improving precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If differential braking assembly is used to control aircraft lateral trajectory, then steering capability is improved, but pilot workload increases and passenger comfort deteriorates due to heating and imprecision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rudder control and differential braking control into a single rudder bar with two pedals. Each pedal has two degrees of freedom: longitudinal movement controls rudder deflection, while lateral movement controls differential braking. This merging eliminates the need for separate control devices and reduces pilot workload by providing integrated control of both steering mechanisms through one interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The rudder bar pedals are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously. Each pedal can independently control rudder deflection (for directional control) and activate differential braking (for trajectory correction). This multi-functionality allows the pilot to manage both steering systems through a single control device, improving ease of operation while reducing the complexity of having separate controls.
2Adaptability or versatility
If brake pedals are mounted on rudder bar with two degrees of freedom, then control flexibility is improved, but precision deteriorates due to uncoupled movements making simultaneous actuation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates haptic feedback generators that provide tactile feedback to the pilot based on pedal position and activation state. When the pedal reaches the activation position for differential braking, the haptic feedback generates a perceptible signal (such as a change in resistance or vibration) to confirm the activation threshold is reached. This feedback mechanism enhances actuation precision by giving the pilot sensory confirmation of the control state, ensuring accurate and intentional activation of differential braking.
3Ease of operation
If differential braking assembly is actuated for trajectory control, then lateral movement capability is improved, but reliability decreases due to heating and damage risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes a determination module that calculates a threshold value for trajectory parameters before differential braking is activated. This threshold is computed based on current flight conditions, aircraft state, and environmental factors. By determining the activation threshold in advance, the system ensures that differential braking is only activated when necessary and appropriate, preventing unnecessary braking events that could lead to overheating and damage, thus improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the differential braking activation threshold based on real-time parameters such as aircraft speed, weight, runway conditions, and environmental temperature. By changing the activation parameters adaptively, the system optimizes braking usage to avoid conditions that could cause overheating or damage, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving lateral movement capability when needed.
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 system minimizes pilot workload and reduces risks associated with differential braking, enhancing control precision and comfort by providing clear haptic feedback and coordinated pedal movements.
Implementation Method 1
the rudder bar includes a haptic feedback generator configured to apply, to each of the left and right pedals, a first haptic profile when the left, respectively right, pedal is moved from the neutral position to the activation position, and a second haptic profile, distinct from the first haptic profile, when the left, respectively right, pedal is moved from the activation position to the end-of-travel position
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling a lateral trajectory of an aircraft includes a rudder bar. Each pedal of the rudder bar is movable between a neutral position (pn) and an end-of-travel position (pf) along a unique travel. A movement of the pedal between the neutral position (pn) and an activation position (pact) commands a lateral movement by actuating a lateral movement device of a first set including a nose gear wheel, the different braking of the aircraft being nonactive. A movement of the pedal from the activation position (pact) to the end-of-travel position (pf) commands a lateral movement by actuating a device of the first set and the differential braking. A haptic feedback generator applies a first haptic profile to each pedal between the neutral position (pn) and the activation position (pact) and a second haptic profile from the activation position (pact) toward the end-of-travel position (pf).