Variable Manning Aircraft Control System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft control systems lack the capability to efficiently implement variable manning operations, which would reduce operational costs by minimizing the need for trained cockpit crews and enhance mission flexibility, as existing technologies have not been integrated into a comprehensive system for fully automated flight control.
Innovation Solution
The development of a flight control system that includes multiple subsystems capable of fully automating aircraft operations, allowing for various manning modes such as two onboard operators, one onboard operator, or no onboard operator, with remote operator input via wireless signals, and integrating software and electronic controls for primary flight and cockpit functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fully automated flight control systems are implemented to reduce crew size, then operational costs are reduced and mission flexibility is improved, but system complexity and reliability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flight control system is divided into multiple independent subsystems including autopilot, autothrottle, flight management system, and remote operation subsystem. Each subsystem handles specific flight functions independently, allowing the complex automation task to be managed through modular components rather than a monolithic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The flight control system is designed to perform multiple functions across different manning modes. The same core automation subsystems support both fully autonomous operation and remote-operated flight, allowing the system to adapt its level of automation based on mission requirements without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If variable manning modes are implemented to enhance mission flexibility, then adaptability to different operational requirements is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its level of automation and control interface based on the selected manning mode. In fully autonomous mode, the system operates with minimal human intervention, while in remote-operated mode, it provides enhanced communication and control interfaces. This dynamic adaptation allows the same hardware platform to support varying operational requirements without requiring physical reconfiguration.
3Extent of automation
If remote operation capability is added to enable fully unmanned flight, then crew reduction is achieved, but communication reliability requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The remote operation subsystem implements continuous feedback loops between the ground control station and aircraft systems. Telemetry data including flight parameters, system status, and sensor information are continuously transmitted to the ground station, while control commands are sent back to the aircraft. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable communication and allows for real-time monitoring and intervention when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a system includes a plurality of subsystems cooperatively configured to control an aircraft in accordance with a plurality of manning modes, the system configured to perform fully automated control of the aircraft while operating in any of the plurality of manning modes, wherein the plurality of manning modes include: two onboard operators; one onboard operator; and no onboard operator, wherein the system receives input from a remotely located operator by way of wireless signals.