Trim Actuator Tactile Warning for Rotorcraft Power Margin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current warning devices for rotorcraft pilots fail to effectively and efficiently alert them to excessive mechanical power demands, leading to increased workload and potential safety risks due to complex flight control systems and varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method implementing a tactile signal warning device connected to a human-driven flight control member, utilizing a 'trim actuator' and predictive unit to generate alerts via a 'trim cylinder' and vibrator, which adjusts resistance force and alert frequency based on power margin calculations and pilot input, allowing for differentiated and timely responses to mechanical power demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a warning device is added to alert the pilot of excessive mechanical power demands, then pilot safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The warning device is merged with the existing trim actuator mechanism. The trim actuator, which normally adjusts blade pitch to maintain steady flight, is repurposed to also provide tactile warning signals to the pilot when excessive power demand is detected. This combines the warning function with an existing control component, avoiding the need for separate warning devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim actuator is given multiple functions: it continues to perform its traditional role of trim adjustment while simultaneously serving as a warning device. When the predictive unit detects that available power margin falls below the threshold, the trim actuator generates tactile signals (resistance forces or vibrations) that alert the pilot, thus making the component universal and eliminating the need for dedicated warning hardware.
2Reliability
If tactile signals are provided through the flight control member, then alert effectiveness is improved, but pilot workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trim actuator uses the pilot's own control inputs to generate the warning signals. When the pilot moves the flight control member, the predictive unit monitors the resulting power demand and, if excessive, the trim actuator responds by applying resistance or vibration through the same control member. This allows the system to self-generate warnings using existing pilot actions, avoiding the need for separate alert mechanisms that would increase workload.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by monitoring the pilot's control inputs through the flight control member and responding with tactile signals when power demand becomes excessive. The predictive unit continuously calculates available power margin based on pilot inputs, and when the margin falls below the threshold, the trim actuator provides immediate tactile feedback to the pilot, creating a closed-loop warning system that adapts to pilot actions.
3Device complexity
If the trim actuator is used for both trimming and warning functions, then device complexity is reduced, but function reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The trim actuator operates dynamically, switching between its traditional trimming function and warning function based on real-time conditions. The predictive unit continuously monitors available power margin, and when it falls below the threshold, the trim actuator transitions to providing tactile warning signals. This dynamic operation allows the single component to reliably perform multiple functions without interference, as the system adapts its behavior to current flight conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into functional modules: the predictive unit that calculates power margin, the threshold comparison logic, and the trim actuator that executes responses. This segmentation allows the trim actuator to be controlled differently for trimming versus warning functions, with the predictive unit determining which mode is active. The modular architecture ensures that each function can be reliably executed without compromising the other.
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 reduces pilot workload by providing clear, timely alerts through tactile signals, enabling quick identification and response to mechanical power imbalances, while minimizing unnecessary alerts and maintaining piloting comfort, thus enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first tactile signal is generated by causing the "trim actuator" to generate a resistive force against a drive by the human pilot of the flight control member
Implementation Method 2
a second tactile signal is generated by causing a vibrator to generate vibrations
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of using a tactile signal warning device forming part of a human-operated flight control member of a rotorcraft. The warning device makes use of an anchorable motorized trim actuator for generating a resisting force against movement of the flight control member. The warning device comprises a warning unit that, as a function of a power margin (MP1) calculated by a predictor unit in compliance with a current regulation rating of the power plant and on condition that state data indicates that an autopilot is activated in a higher operating mode, acts to generate an order to activate the trim actuator depending on the conditions under which the flight control member is being moved as identified by a force management unit.