Unified Ejection Sequencer for Multi-Seat Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-seat ejection systems require separate sequencers for each ejection seat, increasing weight, part count, and costs due to the need for distinct timing sequences and deployment mechanisms for each seat.
Innovation Solution
A unified sequencer system that determines seat location and identity using unique pin configurations, allowing for shared timing sequences and deployment commands for both pilot and co-pilot ejection seats, reducing the number of unique parts and improving reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sequencers are used for each ejection seat, then precise timing control for each seat is achieved, but system weight and part count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate sequencers into a single unified sequencer that controls both ejection seats. The sequencer receives signals from both pilot and co-pilot ejection handles and generates coordinated deployment commands for both seats, thereby reducing the number of separate sequencer units while maintaining timing precision through centralized control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified sequencer is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control ejection of the pilot seat only, the co-pilot seat only, or both seats simultaneously depending on which handle is actuated. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated sequencers for each seat while preserving precise timing control capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate sequencers are used for each ejection seat, then independent deployment control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sequencer functions into a single device that processes inputs from both ejection handles and generates coordinated outputs for both seats. This consolidation reduces the total number of sequencer parts while maintaining the ability to independently control each seat's deployment timing through integrated control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified sequencer internally segments control functions by processing signals from different handles separately and generating appropriate deployment commands for each seat based on the specific handle actuated. This internal functional segmentation maintains deployment flexibility while using a single physical sequencer unit.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate sequencers are used for each ejection seat, then seat-specific timing sequences are achieved, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sequencer units into one unified sequencer that serves both ejection seats. This consolidation reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, tested, and installed, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining seat-specific timing accuracy through programmed control sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified sequencer is designed as a universal control unit that can execute different timing sequences for different ejection scenarios (pilot only, co-pilot only, or both seats). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized sequencer units, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving precise timing control for each seat type.
Data Source
AI summary
An article of manufacture may include a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon for controlling deployment of aircraft escape and ejection seat subsystems. The instructions, in response to execution by a first sequencer, cause the first sequencer to perform operations which may comprise receiving a power input, determining a seat location and a seat identity of a first ejection seat in which the first sequencer is installed, determining an ejection mode, sending a first deploy command to an escape path clearance subsystem, determining a deployment sequence for a seat rocket catapult subsystem and a plurality of ejection seat subsystems of the first ejection seat based on the seat location, the seat identity, and the ejection mode, sending a second deploy command to the seat rocket catapult subsystem, and sending a series of third deploy commands to the plurality of ejection seat subsystems.