Single Film Sensor Recesses for Aerodynamic Aircraft Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement devices for aircraft surfaces face issues with irregularities and leaks due to complex seals and covers, which disrupt aerodynamic flow and compromise sensor protection, especially on curved surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device featuring a flexible support with recesses covered by a single film that follows the aircraft's contours, providing an aerodynamic form and seal-tightness without additional seals, and includes orifices for air passage while maintaining water-tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple covers and jackets are used to protect sensors, then sensor protection is improved, but surface irregularities increase and aerodynamic flow is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate protective covers and jackets into a single integrated film that covers all sensors. This single film maintains sensor protection while eliminating the surface irregularities caused by multiple separate components, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The single film provides a homogeneous protective layer across all sensors, creating a uniform surface that does not disrupt aerodynamic flow. This homogeneous structure replaces the heterogeneous arrangement of multiple covers and jackets, simultaneously achieving protection and surface flatness.
2Reliability
If seals or lacquer are used to ensure seal-tightness, then protection from elements is improved, but manufacturing complexity and surface irregularities increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the seal-tightness function from complex seal structures and lacquer applications, achieving protection from elements through the inherent design of the single film itself. This eliminates the need for additional seal components, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible covers are used on curved surfaces, then adaptability is improved, but surface unevenness increases and leaks may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single flexible film that can conform to curved surfaces while maintaining a smooth outer surface. The film's flexibility allows it to adapt to aircraft contours without creating the unevenness associated with rigid covers, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and surface flatness.
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 ensures high-quality measurements by minimizing surface irregularities, preventing leaks, and protecting sensors from environmental elements, while maintaining aerodynamic performance even on curved surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
all of said openings of said recesses are covered by a single film
Implementation Method 2
At least one orifice is provided on the film... allows the air to pass while remaining tight to the fluids likely to be present
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement device can be attached to an outer wall of a movable object or of a stationary object arranged in a flow of air in order to measure physical quantities. The measurement device includes a mounting which has recesses having an opening leading to the outside in which sensors are provided. All of said openings of said recesses are covered by a single film. The film thus makes it possible to offer a surface which is as smooth as possible, having very low roughness with no unevenness. It also makes it possible to ensure the tightness of the sensors as well as the air insulation between all the sensors of the mounting.