Voice-Operable Avionic System with Speech Recognition Processor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern avionic systems on flight decks require frequent and prolonged 'head-down time' for flight crews to access information and control options, which can be hazardous and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A voice-operable avionic system utilizing a speech recognition processor that receives audio inputs, determines the validity of voice commands, and requires explicit confirmation for safety-critical commands, while allowing immediate execution for non-safety-critical commands, reducing the need for manual input and enhancing safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flight crews manually access information and control options on flight decks, then they can interact with avionic systems, but head-down time increases creating safety hazards and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical interaction with avionic systems (buttons, switches, display navigation) with voice-based acoustic interaction. The speech recognition processor converts vocal commands into system control signals, eliminating the need for flight crews to look down at and manually operate flight deck controls, thereby reducing head-down time while maintaining system interaction capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a speech recognition processor as an intermediary between the flight crew and avionic systems. This intermediary component translates voice commands into actionable control signals, enabling hands-free and eyes-free operation while maintaining precise control over flight deck functions
2Loss of time
If voice commands are processed automatically without confirmation, then head-down time is reduced, but risk of erroneous execution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the speech recognition processor provides confirmation back to the flight crew when a voice command is recognized. The system repeats or displays the interpreted command, allowing the crew to verify accuracy before execution. This feedback loop prevents erroneous execution while maintaining the benefits of voice-based operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary validation of voice commands before final execution. The speech recognition processor pre-processes and verifies commands, checking for clarity and intent confirmation before committing to system control actions. This preliminary action ensures accuracy while maintaining efficient operation
3Loss of time
If speech recognition system is integrated into avionic systems, then head-down time is reduced, but system complexity and certification requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the speech recognition functionality into a separate, dedicated processor unit that interfaces with existing avionic systems. This modular approach allows the speech recognition component to be developed, tested, and certified independently before integration, reducing overall system complexity while achieving the head-down time reduction benefit
Data Source
AI summary
Voice-operable avionic systems and methods supporting utilization of speech recognition to facilitate control of avionic systems are disclosed. Utilizing speech recognition to control avionic systems may help reduce the head-down time of the flight crew. Safety features may also be implemented to ensure safety-critical commands are carried out as intended when commands are received through speech recognition. In addition, voice-operable avionic systems configured in accordance with embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein may be implemented in manners that can help reduce the complexity and cost associated with obtaining certifications from aviation authorities.