Static Reference Resolver Circuit for Sensor Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems, such as angle of attack sensors in aircraft, require complex and costly circuitry and mechanical parts to provide reference outputs for testing, which increases system cost and decreases reliability.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system incorporating a static reference resolver circuit with a transformer and secondary coils configured at a 90° angle, generating sine and cosine wave outputs that match primary resolver outputs for a selected condition, eliminating the need for complex circuitry and moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex circuitry and mechanical parts are used to provide reference outputs for sensor testing, then reference output accuracy is improved, but system cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the resolver circuit output by using a transformer with secondary windings connected at specific angles (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) to generate reference signals that replicate the expected sensor output without requiring complex mechanical positioning or additional circuitry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical positioning systems and complex electrical circuitry with a transformer-based electrical solution where the reference outputs are generated through transformer winding configurations rather than mechanical adjustments or complex circuit arrangements
2Measurement precision
If complex circuitry and mechanical parts are used to provide reference outputs, then reference output accuracy is improved, but system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer-based reference circuit creates accurate copies of resolver outputs through electromagnetic transformation, eliminating the need for fragile mechanical components while maintaining measurement precision through the inherent stability of transformer coupling
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing mechanical positioning systems with an electrical transformer solution, the patent eliminates wear, friction, and mechanical failure modes while maintaining reference output accuracy through the robust electromagnetic coupling of the transformer windings
3Measurement precision
If costly mechanical and electrical components are used to provide reference outputs, then reference output accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standard transformer component to generate reference signals that copy the resolver output characteristics, avoiding the need for expensive custom mechanical assemblies or specialized circuit boards while maintaining accuracy through proper winding configuration
Solution Approach 2:
By substituting mechanical reference systems with an electrical transformer-based system, the patent reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating precision mechanical machining, assembly, and calibration requirements while maintaining reference output accuracy through electrical design
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
This solution provides accurate and reliable reference outputs without the need for costly mechanical and electrical components, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of sensor systems in safety-critical applications like stick-shaker systems.
Implementation Method 1
generating, using a transformer, a first reference analog voltage based on the voltage reference; generating, using the transformer, a second reference analog voltage based on the voltage reference, wherein the second reference analog voltage is ninety degrees out of phase with the first reference analog voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor, and method of using the sensor, includes a primary resolver circuit and a static reference resolver circuit. The primary resolver circuit is configured to provide first and second primary analog outputs. The primary analog outputs are indicative of a sensed condition of the sensor. The static reference resolver circuit includes a transformer and is configured to generate first and second reference analog outputs indicative of a reference condition of the sensor. The first and second reference analog outputs match the first and second primary analog outputs when the sensed condition is equivalent to the reference condition.