Integrated Total Air Temperature Probe Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current total air temperature sensors on aircraft require complex and bulky circuitry for signal transmission and heater control, leading to signal loss, electrical noise interference, and increased complexity due to remote air data computer locations, especially with the use of analog resistance outputs and cables.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a total air temperature sensor with both a probe and electronics package, including a temperature sensing element, heater, and interface temperature sensor, where the electronics package monitors the interface temperature and automatically turns off the heater and sensing element if it exceeds a predetermined threshold, reducing overheating risks and simplifying the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the air data computer is located remotely from the TAT sensor, then the sensor can be positioned optimally for airflow measurement, but signal transmission requires complex cables and circuitry that increase system complexity and cause signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the air data computer electronics directly into the TAT sensor probe housing, combining the sensor element, heater control, and data processing into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate cables and external circuitry, thereby reducing signal loss and system complexity while maintaining optimal sensor positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cables are used to transmit signals from the TAT sensor to the air data computer, then the sensor can be positioned independently, but the cables are susceptible to electrical noise and signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the air data computer directly into the probe housing, the patent eliminates the need for external cables for signal transmission. The sensor element remains positioned optimally within the probe for airflow measurement, while the integrated electronics process signals locally, avoiding cable-related noise and signal loss issues.
3Reliability
If the heater is continuously operated to prevent ice formation on the TAT sensor, then de-icing reliability is improved, but the risk of overheating and damage to the sensor and surrounding components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a temperature sensor that continuously monitors the heater temperature and provides feedback to the control circuitry. When the temperature reaches a predetermined threshold, the system automatically reduces or shuts off heater power, preventing overheating and damage to the sensor and surrounding components while maintaining effective de-icing operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex circuitry is integrated into the air data computer for heater control and signal processing, then sensor functionality is improved, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the air data computer electronics directly into the TAT sensor probe housing, combining the sensor element, heater control circuitry, and data processing functions into a single compact integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate external devices and complex interconnections, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full sensor functionality.
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 reduces the risk of overheating, minimizes signal loss and noise interference, and simplifies the system by integrating electronics close to the sensor, enhancing reliability and reducing the size and complexity of the air data computer system.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensing element being located so that air flowing into the air inlet passes by the temperature sensing element, the temperature sensing element being adapted to produce a temperature sensing element electrical signal as a function of a temperature of the air passing by the temperature sensing element
Implementation Method 2
a heater for deicing the housing
Implementation Method 3
an interface temperature sensor adapted to monitor a temperature at an interface between the integrated probe and electronics package and a skin of the vehicle
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A total air temperature sensor includes a probe secured to a first side of a vehicle surface. The probe includes an air inlet and a temperature sensing element. Air flows into the air inlet and passes by the temperature sensing element. The temperature sensing element produces a temperature sensing element electrical signal as a function of a temperature of the air. The total air temperature sensor also includes an electronics package secured to a second side of the vehicle surface. Electronics in the electronics package receive the temperature sensing element electrical signal from the temperature sensing element and determine a total air temperature as a function of the temperature sensing element electrical signal.