VTOL Seat Ballast Control for Adaptive Crash Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crashworthy seats in rotorcraft have a limited range of occupant weights effectively protected from spinal injury due to physical limits of energy absorbers, and there is a need for dynamic energy absorption systems that can accommodate a wider range of user weights and enhance occupant comfort.
Innovation Solution
Dynamic energy absorbing seats with adjustable ballast tanks and variable attenuators that adjust fluid levels based on user weight, allowing for customizable energy absorption and comfort features like heating or cooling, and can be used as aircraft ballast during non-occupancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed load energy absorption systems are used in rotorcraft seats, then the seat structure is simple and reliable, but the range of occupant weights effectively protected from spinal injury is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the energy absorption load variable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically adjusts the pre-load force on the energy absorber based on real-time occupant weight measurements from load cells, allowing the seat to adapt to different occupant sizes and weights while maintaining optimal protection across a wider weight range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of energy absorption force from a fixed value to a variable parameter that adjusts with occupant weight. By measuring actual occupant weight and calculating the appropriate pre-load force, the system modifies the energy absorption characteristics to match each occupant's needs, thereby expanding the protected weight range
2Adaptability or versatility
If ballast tanks are added to seats for dynamic weight adjustment, then the range of user weights accommodated increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast tank system serves multiple functions: it provides dynamic weight adjustment to accommodate different occupant sizes, acts as a trim mechanism for the aircraft, and can function as a fluid reservoir. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single system addition
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the occupant's own weight information (measured by load cells) to automatically control the ballast fluid distribution, creating a self-regulating system that adjusts seat weight without requiring manual intervention or complex external control mechanisms
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 system provides enhanced safety and comfort by accommodating a wider range of user weights, reducing spinal load during impacts, and offering additional functions like temperature regulation and fire suppression.
Implementation Method 1
a ballast fluid distribution system electrically coupled to the controller and fluidly connected to the ballast tank, the ballast fluid distribution system configured to adjust the fluid level in the ballast tank
Implementation Method 2
an attenuator coupled to the seat portion and the base, the attenuator configured to reduce a load on the passenger upon vertical deceleration of the aircraft
Implementation Method 3
seats with energy absorbing or plastically deforming structure are often used in rotorcraft
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to dynamic stroking seats for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Seat ballast tanks are attached to aircraft seats. The seats are sprung by a fixed or variable load energy absorption system. The weight of a user is determined and assigned to a corresponding seat of the user. Based on the weight of the user, the fluid level in the ballast tank is monitored and adjusted to achieve a target weight range.