Integrated Self-Defense System Installation Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large aircraft face challenges with complex and weight-intensive self-defense systems due to the need for multiple sensor and laser installations, which create aerodynamic issues, increase installation complexity, and complicate pressurization, especially when sensors are mounted under the chin, leading to noise generation and performance impacts.
Innovation Solution
An integrated self-defense system is located in the aft un-pressurized compartment of the fuselage, featuring forward and aft looking missile warning sensors and a laser system mounted on integrated panels, with a processor and control systems in the cockpit, reducing complexity and weight while eliminating chin-mounted sensor-related issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sensors and lasers are distributed at extremities of the aircraft body, then comprehensive missile detection capability is improved, but installation complexity and system weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple missile warning sensors and laser systems into a single integrated pod mounted in the tail section of the aircraft. This merging approach maintains comprehensive detection capability by using multiple sensors within the pod while dramatically reducing the number of mounting locations from several extremities to one centralized position, thereby simplifying installation and reducing system complexity.
2Reliability
If sensors are mounted under the chin of the aircraft, then forward missile detection is improved, but aerodynamic noise and performance degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the sensor system from the traditional chin-mounted position to the tail section of the aircraft, utilizing a different spatial dimension and location. This relocation eliminates the aerodynamic noise and performance issues associated with chin-mounted sensors while maintaining effective missile detection capability through the pod's strategic positioning and sensor orientation.
3Reliability
If multiple component locations are modified on the aircraft, then self-defense system functionality is improved, but pressurization requirements and modification complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all self-defense system components (missile warning sensors, laser systems, and associated electronics) into a single integrated pod that mounts to one location on the aircraft. This eliminates the need to modify multiple separate component locations, thereby reducing pressurization requirements and simplifying the modification process while maintaining full self-defense functionality.
4Device complexity
If a belly mounted pod is used to contain all components, then integration is improved, but wheels up landing issues and performance impact occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the integrated pod from the belly of the aircraft to the tail section, utilizing a different spatial location that avoids interference with landing gear operations. This dimensional change maintains system integration while eliminating the wheels-up landing issues and performance impacts associated with belly-mounted configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated sensor and self defense system for large aircraft incorporates a forward looking missile warning sensor (MWS) mounted in a replacement panel for mounting in an un-pressurized aft compartment, an aft looking MWS mounted in the panel substantially adjacent the forward looking MWS, and a laser system for engaging a missile detected by an MWS mounted proximate the forward and aft looking MWS. A processor and electronics for controlling said MWS and laser systems are mounted adjacent the active components with indicators and operator control systems mounted in the aircraft cockpit.